Subaru – Page 5 – Automobiles Review

2016 Subaru XV And a Fresh Fairytale of Stylish Facelift

2016 Subaru XV Facelift Subaru announced details for the revised XV compact crossover , now coming with even more stylish exterior, enhanced cabin quality and tons of additional gadgets. As you know, since the introduction back in 2012, the XV became one of Subaru’s most advanced and popular vehicles, thanks to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and the overall excellent off-road capabilities.

The recent updates include suspension fine-tuning, and quicker and more direct steering rack that contributes to smoother and more responsive vehicle control. But let’s waste no more time and check out some of the cool details.

The higher quality cabin and the fresh infotainment system

Some of the most notable changes include high-quality components, the new 7.0-inch touch screen and the advanced navigation system. Also, the changes include the adoption of fresh metallic and piano black trim and contrast stitching.

The 2016 XV also features and extra USB port which allows passengers to listen to music from one USB device, while charging another at the same time. Cool.

Enhanced efficiency capabilities

The vehicle continues to be offered with a choice of two horizontally-opposed, four-cylinder Boxer engines: the 2.0-liter petrol and the 2.0-liter diesel engines, paired to either six-speed manual or six speed CVT automatic gearbox.

The changes are simple and effective. Long story short, the drivetrain system is with 4 per cent more efficient, compared to its predecessor, thanks to some virtuoso engineering solutions and ideas. But this doesn’t mean that Subaru team lowered the performance stats. They remain high and challenging: the modified engines produce a total of 147hp (108kW) and 350Nm of torque and can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62mph) in 9.3 seconds.

2016 Subaru XV Facelift

Furthermore, Subaru introduced and the revised 150hp (110kW) 2.0-liter naturally-aspired petro unit. It now offers 2% better fuel efficiency and is mated to Subaru’s smooth-shifting Lineartronic transmission.

Appealing and beautiful

As part of the 2016 improvements, Subaru also revised some of the exterior features of the vehicle. The XV still proudly demonstrates the signature and well-known stand, but the front now features updated hawk-eye headlights and restyled front grille and bumper.

The rear also benefits from some slight changes as a discreet boot spoiler and LED taillamps. And let’s not forget the black and silver diamond cut aluminum alloy wheels that further enhance the refreshed exterior.

And last, but not least, there are two additional colors to compliment the facelift: Hyper Blue and Dark Blue Metallic.

2016 Subaru XV Facelift

Source: Subaru

February 8, 2016

The Barkleys Return for the Latest Subaru Ad Campaign!

Subaru of America, Inc. has launched its latest advertising campaign in celebration of the love of animals. A love that also connects brands, racers and automobile fans. It is named “Dog Tested. Dog Approved” and for now contains five spots. In fact, the well-known Barkleys, the lovely dog family that starred back in 2013’s “Meet the Barkleys” also makes appearance in the latest Subaru advertisement campaign.

The national television spots that were created by Carmichael Lych, will be launched in the coming weeks and all the five ads will be featured on February 7 during the PUPPY BOWL XII on Animal Planet, where Subaru of America will also mark its 6th year as event’s official sponsor. And one more thing: during the whole campaign, viewers will be encouraged to share photos of their own pets. Cool, right?

As said, the whole campaign contains a total of five videos. So, let’s check them out!

“PUPPY” – the video showcases that a nighttime drive is the only acceptable lullaby for one sweet and tired puppy, so a tired father takes the special Barkleys’s Subaru Legacy for one more lap around the neighborhood.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGkDqfdgVEQ

“PHONE NAVIGATION” – This video tells you the truth: your smartphone is not as smart as you think! Why? Just watch the video.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ejf8lk9nYH4

“DOGGIE BAG” – It looks like sometimes the appearance and capabilities of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive can be too appealing. The Barkleys take the Subaru Forest for a night ride, but it looks like they were not prepared for what was coming next.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMZM8MG6X1o

“WINDSHIELD WIPER” – The unusual family runs into oddly localized weather in their Subaru Legacy, but luckily the vehicle has everything Barkleys need.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AavneQ8s0g4

“BAD HAIR DAY” – How do Golden Labs keep a poker face? They don’t.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1msc2Gi_S5Y

Also, in support of the campaign, Subaru team created a custom Barkley emoji for all Twitter lovers out there in order to help all good men out there share their passion for animals.

Source: Subaru of America, Inc.

February 1, 2016

Subaru BRZ Smashes Guinness World Record for the “Tightest 360° Spin” [VIDEO]

Subaru BRZ front view Subaru BRZ and the stunt driver and former world record holder Alastair Moffatt set a new Guinness World Record for the ‘Tightest 360° spin’. The rear-wheel drive BRZ sportscar and the famous petrolhead made it into the record books at the Autosport International Show over the weekend, by executing the world’s tightest ever 360 degree spin.

But Moffatt is not new to record-breaking. He has previous experience setting extreme Guinness World Records such as ‘Tightest Reverse Parallel Park’ and ‘Tightest Parallel Park’. Now, with this achievement the stunt-driver ace smashed the previous 2.5-metre Guinness World Record, which was made in 2014.

He managed to flick the BRZ into a 360° spin between two obstacles in Autosport International’s Live Action Arena, traveling at a speed of 30mph down a narrow lane of cars. Then he spun his Subaru BRZ 360 degrees then accelerated to the end of the course. Everything has happened in one continuous motion.

Moffatt’s BRZ car was 4.24-metre-long and the gap allowed for just 2.25m of clearance for him to complete the stunt. And this is how he broke the previous record of 2.5m. Of course, if it wasn’t the Subaru BRZ, which is renowned for its low centre of gravity and naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre ‘Boxer’ engine, he probably wouldn’t make it.

The driver also said that in order to maximize the control over the car throughout the maneuver, the traction control was switched off and ABS disengaged. Alastair also spoke about that he was impressed by BRZ because of the combination it offers, namely: lightweight, rear wheel drive and highly controllable chassis. He admitted that the Subaru BRZ “was the perfect car in which to do it.”

Now hear what he has to add about the Guinness World Record and Subaru BRZ in the video below.

httpv://youtu.be/699J3ig_mok

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Subaru

January 19, 2016

Subaru Will Unveil Special Concept Vehicles at the Tokyo Auto Salon Show

STI Performance Concept Subaru Technica International Inc., along with Fuji Heavy Industries announced a special exhibition to take place at the 2016 Tokyo Auto Salon with NAPAC (Japan Car Parts and Aftermarket Promotions Association) that will be held between 15-17 January at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba.

At the Subaru place at the event there will be some special models, along with the “STI Performance Concept”, Levorg STI Concept” and “Subaru XV Hybrid STI Concept”. So, let’s see what do these sweeties have to offer.

STI Performance Concept

This beauty includes numerous STI technologies and features, including STI suspension and brake systems, along with neat exterior and interior enhancements. And in order to signify STI’s commitment to motorsport, it embraces the STI-fine-tuned EJ20 horizontally-opposed 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo performance-oriented power unit, currently used for the Super GT race in Japan.

Levorg STI Concept

The WR “Blue Pearl” demonstrates special front fascia with quality feel and STI-designed exclusive 18-inch alloys and overall dramatic exterior look. And with the red-wine and black two-tone color scheme interior with high quality elements and especially created accessories, this vehicle brings some outstanding feel of comfort and superiority. And let’s not forget the special STI-tuned dampers, ride quality and stability that this beauty offers.

Subaru XV Hybrid STI Concept

This special Concept comes with the well-known Subaru quality and XV’s “casual and sporty” spirit: the sweetie comes with special orange and beige color scheme for the interior and custom STI sport components that altogether contribute to that aggressive, yet elegant character.

Source: Subaru

December 28, 2015

Did Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Impress Us Really?

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Front View Subaru has finally let the cat out of the bag. If you have followed us regularly, then you know that we have been expecting company’s Impreza Sedan Concept. The debut of the car happened at the Los Angeles Auto Show. We have told you already that the concept vehicle will express Subaru’s new way of envisioning the design of its vehicles. This means that it will implement the design language called Dynamic x Solid. In general, it is characterized by sportier forms, less angular proportions and powerful stance. But are we happy with it?

The Details

Let’s see in details what we have here. The body size of the car, overall length × width × height, is 179.3” × 70” × 57.2”. It is built over a wheelbase of 105.1”, meaning that the car has to ride on appropriate tires. Hence, Subaru did not doubt for a minute but added the huge 235/40 R19 rubbers, which play significant role in Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. These inviting proportions are perfect for the comfortable ride of 5 persons.

The Impreza sedan concept definitely looks aerodynamically enhanced. This is because of the combination of functionality and styling. In addition, the character lines further enhance the dynamics of the compact sedan. As a show vehicle, the car is painted in the eye-catching Ruby Red Metallic color with glossy black accents, but this isn’t accidental. It represents a sporty and energetic impression that ha car wants to imprint on future buyers.

Front, Sides & Rear Design

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Rear and Side View

The front of the car features the characteristic for Subaru hexagonal grille, menacing hawk-eye headlights and aircraft inspired wing. At the sides we see flared fenders with sharp character line running through the whole length of the car. There is also another upswept character line along the lower door panels.

The design of the back of the Impreza Sedan continues the sharp lines via the rear tail lamps, which have wide and low illumination (just like those at the front). The trunk is sleek, thus adding to the sporty impression on the sedan. So we definitely find the rear of the concept very interesting.

But is a production vehicle like this necessary, since its design looks far away from the characteristic for the brand language? Maybe many won’t be happy with it, but it is a mater of time to see whether the Dynamic x Solid design language will prosper. When a production version of the Impreza Sedan Concept will appear, it is not known so far.

Source: Subaru

November 19, 2015

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Makes World Debut at Los Angeles Auto Show

Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept Teaser Subaru Impreza Sedan Concept has made a successful debut by the end of October at the Tokyo Motor Show. Now this rather impressive car is set to debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The event will take place between 17^th and 29^th of November, and it is opened for public from 20^thof November.

There will be even a special site dedicated to the concept, which opens today and you can visit it here.

Impreza Sedan Concept is an instance of how the brand envisions its future. It is not only an example of the next generation Impreza, but of the future design of the vehicles. Although it is a concept, the car seems as functional as we expect it to be. In addition, from the official teaser image above it is visible that it is full of aerodynamics.

Since we have seen it in Tokyo, we must highlight that this car inevitably blends form and function. Unlike the car shown in Japan, this one will rather be painted in red. The teaser also displays the low stance that is an innate quality of the brand. The clean lines of the design of the car extend from the front wheel arch to the rear shoulders, enhancing the sporty silhouette of the concept.

Whether there will be any other differences than the exterior color, we can’t be sure. So, let’s wait a little longer and see what exactly appears in the city of angels. And by the way, the Impreza Sedan Concept will be revealed at the press briefing scheduled for 2:35 PM PST on November 18, followed by a speech by the president and CEO of Suzuki. You can follow everything that is happening during the premiere at the web page mentioned above.

Source: Subaru

November 10, 2015

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept & WRX STI S207 Debut in Tokyo

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept Front view Subaru has debuted today not one but two cars: the Impreza 5-Door Concept and the Japan-only WRX STI S207 limited edition. The little sad fact here is that the S207 is intended for Japanese public, as mentioned above. Follow my thoughts and you’ll know why.

Subaru Impreza 5-Door Concept

Let’s start with the concept vehicle. It is an example how the company is envisioning its next generation Impreza and the design of its future vehicles in general. First, the car is as functional as we can expect it to be. This of course does not hamper it from delivering the best possible aerodynamic performance while blending form with function.

The contemporary styling of the vehicle is further emphasized via the luminous silver exterior color. In addition, the design study also exhibits a wide and low stance, which is one of the innate qualities of the brand.

New is the hexagonal grille, while the concept’s front combination lamps exhibit a bold reinterpretation of company’s famous ‘hawk-eye’ headlights. The clean lines of the design of the car extend from the front wheel arch to the rear shoulders. The form of the front and rear lights express a powerful, modern look, with the sharp lines, thus enhancing the sporty silhouette of the concept.

Subaru WRX STI S207 Limited Edition

Subaru WRX STI S207 Limited Edition Front and Rear View

As I have said earlier it is really sad to know that the WRX STI S207 Limited Edition is going to be limited to the Japanese market. Just 400 units will be produced of it. It is built over the WRX STI sports saloon, but includes specially-tuned engine with a higher power output that has been rated now to 328 PS.

As you can expect, this vehicle is super-quick, and features the well-known for Subaru precise handling. Speaking of which, it has been modified through the adoption of a quicker steering ratio of 11.0:1, developing the involving and immediate character of the WRX STI. The front bumper design has been upgraded as well and the S207 also features larger rear spoiler. Unfortunately, Subaru has no plans to bring the special edition to United States or Europe.

Source: Subaru

October 28, 2015

Subaru WRX STI NR4: the Sportier and More Aggressive WRX You Need to See

Subaru WRX STI NR4 Front View Subaru WRX STI NR4 is the latest addition to Subaru’s line-up of exclusive motorsport vehicles. It is that good that it literally hurts when you think that it will be distributed only in Australia. Made by the Subaru Australia’s long-term motorsport partner, Possum Bourne Motorsport (PBMS), the new variant of the WRX STI has many qualities to be proud of. And by the way, this WRX STI NR4 represents just one of three tiers that can be specified by customers.

What does the NR4 give to the Subaru WRX STI? First, there are six option packs. The specialists also included cover for the engine, new and much better brakes, improved driveline and suspension, and special gravel and tarmac packs.

The available PBMS packages are perfect for amateurs as well as professional drivers. And the 2.0-litre turbocharged engine under the hood of the car is only available locally in this motorsport model, which will be offered in two exterior colors: white and WR Blue.

Subaru WRX STI NR4 Interior

The best part is that the WRX STI NR4 cars are FIA-homologated and can compete in the FIA WRC2, ERC2 regional and progressive national championships, because they meet FIA’s new NR4 regulations.

All WRX STI NR4 cars are allowed to be used only for motorsport purposes and are not road-legal. If you are a future buyer, you also need to know one more thing: you should fit an FIA-approved roll cage, which can be ordered at the time of purchase for fitting pre-delivery.

Subaru WRX STI NR4 will be produces in limited numbers and are soon to be on displayed at Subaru Interactive at the Docklands. No words about the exact time of the market debut were disclosed.

Source: Subaru

October 14, 2015

VIZIV Concept: Would It Predict The Future?

Subaru VIZIV Future Concept Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. will unveil two concept vehicles at the 44th Tokyo Motor Show 2015. The brand also has planned to demonstrate and new production models that would eventually be announced on October 28 for a total of ten new models of being shown.

In fact, among the concept vehicles there will be the Subaru BIZIV Future Concept that will demonstrate the direction that the brand will go by incorporating automatic driving functions and next-gen safety features. The other unique car on display will be the Impreza 5-Door Concept. It’s main purpose is to demonstrate the next-gen appearance of the Impreza lineup. But let’s see what has the VIZIV Concept has to offer.

Subaru VIZIV Future Concept

This Concept is a SUV machine that demonstrates a future vision over the Subaru styling. Along with the incredible features, the VIZIV also gives a glimpse of the next-gen technologies that would be incorporated in future Subaru vehicles. Only some of them are the automatic driving technology that is the result from ongoing evolution of the EyeSight and also the engine that combines a downsized turbo unit and a hybrid system.

Styling

Subaru VIZIV Future Concept

When it comes to design, Subaru went for a slightly different approach with the VIZIV. The team decided to go for the Subaru Dynamic & Solid design theme that embodies the idea for “enjoyment and peace of mind”.

Exterior

The body demonstrates clear and polished surface that enhances the impression of swiftness and elegance. Furthermore, the design also brings that muscular stance, thanks to the extended bumpers. And staying true to its SUV nature, there are strong motifs like the hexagonal grill and the ascending rear pillar and a dynamic and wide rear bumper that altogether contribute to the unique style of the vehicle.

Interior

The interior on the other hand comes with symmetric lines and cutting-edge interface technology incorporated in the central power frame. The idea for active lifestyle is also incorporated by the beige and black contrast along with the use of orange as a dynamic addition and accent

Subaru VIZIV Future Concept

Subaru team also made improvements to the EyeSight stereo camera technology and enhances the quality of communications and telematics. And along with this technology, the vehicle will demonstrate high-accuaracy GPS system, collision avoidance systems and of course, the automatic drive technology.

Drivetrain system

This next-gen hybrid is of course geared with next-gen advanced drivetrain system. The combination between downsized turbo unit and hybrid system improves the overall fuel efficiency, while the driver will enjoy a smooth, linear and pleasurable ride.

Subaru VIZIV Future Concept

In fact, the downsized engine has been further enhanced and optimized in numerous dimensions. It offers compact size, light weight and net thermal efficiency that is a class-leading in the segment. And let’s not forget the AWD capabilities that improves the maneuverability thanks to the vectoring effect of actively controlling front/rear driving force distribution.

So, at the end it looks like this machine really has a glimpse of the future. What do you think of it?

Source: Subaru

October 7, 2015

Subaru Announced Details for 2016 BRZ Lineup

Subaru of America, Inc. today revealed details for the 2016 BRZ Line. Coming with competitive pricing and geared with 200-hp 2.0-liter BOXER powerplant the vehicle will mark a return to the well-known sport design with low weight and with ultra-low center of gravity. Nice, huh?

The vehicle will be available in Premium or Limited trim and will incorporate features as sport-tuned suspension with front strut brace and TORSEN limited-slip differential.

And now the interesting part. For 2016 the BRZ lineup will include countless technologies and additions of which some are SUBARU STARLINK 6.2″, Multimedia System with a 6.2-inch single-touch gesture display, AM/FM stereo with HD Radio, Sirius XM Stellite Radio. There are also Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, iPod control, iTunes and countless more. After all, comfort and technological advance is as important as the performance stats, right?

Furthermore, Limited trim vehicles will come with a special body-color trunk spoiler, fog lights and Alcantara trimmed interior and Keyless Access. The Limited series come with either 6-speed manual BRZ Limited gearbox or 6-speed Electronic Direct-Control automatic transmission with paddle-shift controls.

Furthermore, the BRZ Limited comes with dual-zone automatic climate control and it includes All-Weather Package as standard feature.

2016 BRZ models will come to dealers this Fall with starting price at $25,395.

Source: Subaru

August 28, 2015

STI Unleashes the Limited-Edition Subaru BRZ tS

Subaru BRZ tS Front and Rear Subaru BRZ tS is going viral after it has been released by Subaru Tecnica International earlier today. The car is currently going on sale in dealerships only in Japan, and this fact makes it even more exclusive. With its racing heritage and agile handling, the BRZ tS is a performance master, which promises noting less than exhilarating driving experience.

BRZ tS Changes the Driving Experience

Subaru has officially confirmed that the STI-made car will offer higher levels of ride-quality. This has been achieved via several important changes. First, the chassis has been enhanced by STI experts, who have taken inspiration for it by Subaru’s iconic motorsport activities.

Precisely, the car adopted STI’s flexible parts, which offer responsive handling performance. Brembo brakes behind the 18-inch alloys and the front under spoiler are also something to take under consideration, when it comes to performance.

Exterior & Interior

Subaru BRZ tS Interior

Some styling changes define the Subaru BRZ tS. For example these are STI’s front under spoiler or the specific design of the front bumper, which features cherry red colored facing and LED lamps. At the tail of the vehicle, the same design treatment has been applied to the rear bumper.

Front fender garnish with “STI” logo in black as well as folding door mirrors and shark fin type roof antenna in the same color round out the exterior design.

STI’s logo has been abundantly featured inside and outside, but when it comes to exclusiveness, defining the cabin are the “Recaro”-designed front bucket seats as well as the speedometer (which by the way also carry the logo). Not to mention the leather wrapped steering wheel and gearshift lever. This treatment is some sort of necessity nowadays, isn’t it?

Four body colors have been featured in the options list, including the limited Sunrise Yellow, the famous WR Blue Pearl, and the more standard Crystal White Pearl and Crystal Black Silica.

Engine

The rear wheels of the Subaru BRZ tS are driven by the FA20 horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder 2.0liter DOHC engine. It produces exactly 200 PS (147 kW) and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque at 6,400-6,600rpm. It might seem that this isn’t enough of a power to you, but when it comes to mind-blowing push of forcce this car is being rated among the best … or at least it carries such heritage.

And if you still wonder why this vehicle is that much of a thing, please mind that it will be produced in only 300 examples. Even more, the Sunrise Yellow Subaru BRZ tS will have a limited run of maximum 100 units. There aren’t so many cars made in a limited run, right? Especially when it comes to the same segment in which the BRZ is positioned.

Source: Subaru

June 30, 2015

2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid Introduced in Japan

2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid will be exclusively launched to the Japanese market on July 10. The vehicle is actually the second hybrid in Subaru’s line-up, following the XV Hybrid introduced in 2013. The hybrid model adds more versatility to the Impreza Sport lineup by embracing company’s design philosophy and adding sporty exterior look and a luxurious interior stylining.

The hybrid Impreza Sport is fitted with a special motor assist function, which delivers smooth and linear acceleration. It has been combined with sharp and sporty handling to bring about the best from the driving experience.

What is more, the vehicle shows outstanding fuel economy rated at just 20.4 km per liter. In addition, the car has been designed to make optimum utilization of the low center of gravity and superior weight balance. This is achieved with the help of Subaru’s unique symmetrical All-Wheel Drive layout.

Drivetrain

The special hybrid system fitted in this Subaru features motor assist function. This function actually keeps both smooth acceleration and low fuel consumption. In addition, the symmetrical AWD layout takes care over the superb driveability.

2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid’s batteries have been re-engineered to use regenerated energy at high speeds, thu susing more active power. As a result, the fuel economy has been improved. On the other hand, the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) features reduced friction and modified torque converter and this also have contributed towards better fuel economy.

Exterior

At the front we see strong contours which highlight the wide and low look which is characteristic to this hybrid grade. The dynamism in the exterior is further strengthened via the special side-sill spoilers and the huge tires. They come in diameter of 215/50R17 in order to achieve the best balance between grip and fuel economy.

The rear end of the car features roof-end spoiler, which further improves aerodynamics and benefits low-energy consumption. There are also LEDs in the rear combination lamps.

The hybrid vehicle can be specified with ice silver metallic, crystal black silica, crystal white pearl, deep sea-blue pearl, quartz blue pearl, and Venetian red pearl exterior color paint schemes.

Interior

The cabin of the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid is filled with blue accents exclusive, which are actually exclusive to the hybrid model. Inside, we also see piano-black panels and extensive use of the metallic trim.

The top of the range grade will have the advantage of silver Ultrasuede seats with blue stitching. Other high-specification features included here are the power seats for the driver and front passenger.

Standard Features

Impreza Sport Hybrid comes as a standard with Hybrid-Spec EyeSight on all grades. The coordinated control of the hybrid system and EyeSight benefits from the use of the Eco-Cruise Control function. This in turn helps in maximum utilization of electric vehicle driving and regenerative braking when Adaptive Cruise Control is operating.