Subaru – Page 8 – Automobiles Review

2015 Subaru WRX STI – Lap Record at the Isle of Man

2015 Subaru WRX STI managed to set a new lap record at the Isle of Man TT Road Course. Behind the steering wheel was the British rally champion Mark Higgins setting a new record of 19 minutes 26 seconds in a production version of the newly launched high-performance saloon.

Higgins finished the 60.82 km (37.8 miles) course with an average speed of 187.44 km/h (116.47 mph). The slashed over 30 seconds from the previous record of 19 minutes and 56.7 seconds with a 2010 WRX STI.

2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine – 305HP (227 kW) and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel drive system.

“It was quite a lap we did today and I am really happy to have another record in the bank. The chassis on this new car is so much better it really allowed me to pick up time in each sector in the more technical parts of the course. I lost time on the second part of the track, overshooting my braking point at Sign Post corner. I actually hand-braked the turn in the end, so I feel we can definitely do better.”, commented Higgins.

Source: Subaru

June 5, 2014

Cosworth Reveals FA20 Power Package

Cosworth FA20 Power Package is here. Through its introduction the company deliberately moves on from individual component supply towards fully validated system packages. The current upgrade is suitable on for Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ and Toyota GT86. Cosworth’s Power Packages will offer motorsport enthusiasts the ease and reliability of power upgrades. The development of FA20 is inspired by Formula One and sports car racing, and the result is a peak performance of up to 380 horsepower (280 kW). There are several stages of the upgrade, each of which builds upon and uses components in the previous Stage.

Stage 1 Power Package offers a power increase of up to 230 hp (170 kW). It features Cosworth free flow sports exhaust, a “Power by Cosworth” calibration kit, an exclusive vehicle badge and a uniquely numbered authentication plaque with the name of the tuning company, performance filtration solution and low temperature thermostat.

All of the components mentioned work together as a solution, rather than a collection of individual parts. They maximize peak performance and reliability. For example, tuning company’s free flow sports exhaust features two 4” diagonally cut, branded, double wall tips and a stylish “Y” shaped back muffler/silencer.

In combination with the other components, this stainless steel exhaust increases the power output to 220 hp (162 kW). By adding the optional combined overpipe front pipe, which has a spherical resonator, the new calibration power output is raised to 225 hp (165 kW). At last, the black manifold header has equal length piping and CNC machined exhaust flanges, not only helps to significantly reduce under hood/bonnet temperatures, but also boosts the output up to 230 hp (170 kW).

Source: Cosworth

May 31, 2014

Subaru Introduces 2015 BRZ Series Blue Special Edition

2015 Subaru BRZ Series Blue is the special edition version of the acclaimed purist sports car. The model will be produced in limited run of only 1000 examples exclusively for the United States. This BRZ embodies an exclusive combination of STI functional aerodynamic body design, black-painted STI 17-inch wheels and unique interior trim. What is more, Subaru announced that it will offer 500 numbers of the car painted WR Blue Pearl and 500 in Crystal White Pearl. The special edition will arrive in dealerships in July.

BRZ Series Blue is driven by 200 horsepower (147 kW) 2.0-liter BOXER engine. It features low vehicle weight, an ultra-low center of gravity and precision steering. A boosts in car’s aerodynamic performance is achieved via the black STI front, side, and side-rear under spoilers, which contribute to additional front downforce.

Furthermore, the additional underbody panels reduce the coefficient of drag (Cd) from 0.28 to 0.27. Larger stainless steel exhaust tips and a new shark fin antenna are also included. Red-finish brake calipers can be seen behind the spokes of the black painted STI wheels, which emphasize BRZ’s pure sports nature.

This special edition vehicle is built on the BRZ Limited model but features exclusive trim and special details throughout. Inside, its leather and Alcantara upholstery includes blue leather seat bolsters and head restraints. Blue stitching highlights the seats and the blue and black leather-wrapped steering wheel, as well as the shift lever boot and leather-wrapped parking brake handle.

The same blue motif can also be seen on the center console kneepads and door trim that are further accentuated by an embroidered silver BRZ logo on the front seatbacks. Carpeted floor mats with BRZ logo and blue stitching, frameless day/night rear-view mirror and simulated carbon fiber center dash panel, red illuminated engine start/stop button with an STI logo round out the special interior treatment.

Pricing of 2015 Subaru BRZ Range:

Model/Trim	Transmission	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
BRZ Premium	6MT	$25,695	$26,490
BRZ Limited	6MT	$27,695	$28,490
BRZ Limited	6AT	$28,795	$29,590
BRZ Series.Blue	6MT	$29,490	$30,285

Source: Subaru

May 30, 2014

Cosworth Releases Video Teaser Of Upgraded Subaru BRZ

Cosworth Subaru BRZ is going to be equipped with tuning company latest enhancement package called Cosworth Power Package – FA20. What was revealed about it is that it will include the FA20 engine platform as well as the video below. Company’s ability to engineer and manufacture complete engine systems for our customers is a key capability. What we have also understood is that this will be a complete performance upgrade kit, which has been designed and validated as a system to provide guaranteed levels of power and reliability.

FA-20 name probably refers to Subaru BRZ’s 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder Boxer petrol engine. It delivers 200 hp (147 kW) and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft). In addition, it also boasts a low centre of gravity and rear-wheel drive for engaging driving thrills.

Furthermore, from the teaser video we can conclude that in the upgraded version of the BRZ we will probably see an upgraded exhaust system, large rear wing and body stripes both in blue. There is a chance of included supercharger or turbocharger which will enhance horsepower. In the video we also see the Toyota GT86, which means that the FA20 will work flawlessly for this model as well.

Cosworth is a UK based tuning company, which develops performance upgrades for automotive and sport. It offers high performance technologies to a diverse range of industries using its capabilities in mechanical and electronic engineering and precision manufacturing.

httpv://youtu.be/_AaxE0yb5d4

Video Source: YouTube

Source: Cosworth

May 21, 2014

2015 Subaru Legacy Goes On Sale

2015 Subaru Legacy model has been completely redesigned and is currently going on sale. It mixes an excellent interior and exterior design, with safety technology and higher fuel efficiency. The new Legacy 2.5i comes standard with Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with manual mode and paddle shift control switches. It also boasts Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The powerplant delivers 175 horsepower (129 kW) but remains to offer impressive fuel economy of 26 city/36 highway mpg.

Active and passive safety features now include driver and front passenger seat cushion airbags. LED clearance lights and tail light elements, a Welcome Lighting feature is also new on all trim levels. Legacy 2.5i also sports Infotainment System with 6.2” single-touch gesture and high resolution display, Subaru STARLINK, AM/FM Stereo HD Radio with single-disc CD Player, Aha and Pandora, Bluetooth audio-streaming and hands-free phone connectivity, Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS), iPod Control and iTunes Tagging capabilities, USB Port, Auxiliary Input Jack, 4-speakers, and a Rear Glass Audio Antenna.

The next trim level is the 2.5i Premium which adds All-Weather Package, Dual Zone Automatic Climate Control System, 10-way power driver’s seat, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift handle, and an illuminated overhead console and front door pull handles. Here the upgraded Infotainment System features 7” multi-touch gesture and high resolution display, Bluetooth hands-free SMS text messaging connectivity, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, dual USB ports, 6-speakers, roof mounted satellite radio, and a vehicle information display.

As an option a moonroof package can be added to this trim level. Furthermore, Legacy 2.5i Premium offers available driver assist technologies such as Subaru Eyesight, Blind Spot Detection (BSD) with Lane Change Assist (LCA), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).

Next is the Legacy 2.5i Limited which adds Perforated Leather-Trimmed Upholstery, stylish 18-inch Alloy Wheels, Harman/Kardon Surround 12-speaker system and 576-watt Amplifier, 10-way power driver’s seat with two-position memory, dual-mode heated rear seat backs and cushions, Subaru Rear Vehicle Detection System, exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, fog lights, woodgrain-pattern accent trim, and center console rear A/C outlets.

Option Packages here include Moonroof Package, Keyless Access & Push-Button Start, Navigation and EyeSight technology. These packages can be also added to the Legacy 3.6R Limited, which is the last and flagship of the sedan line-up.

It include High-Torque Continuously Variable Transmission for its 256 horsepower (188 kW) 3.6 liter, 6-cylinder Boxer engine. Here, the fuel efficiency is estimated at 20 city/29 highway/23 combined mpg. HID low beam headlights with automatic height adjustment control, dual/stainless tips exhaust are also standard.

2015 Subaru Legacy models will be available at dealerships this summer.

2015 SUBARU LEGACY

Model/Trim

Transmission

MSRP

MSRP + destination and delivery

2.5i

CVT

$21,695

$22,490

2.5i Premium

CVT

$23,495

$24,290

2.5i Limited

CVT

$26,495

$27,290

3.6R Limited

CVT

$29,595

$30,390

2015 SUBARU LEGACY OPTION PACKAGES

Moonroof Package	$1,195
Moonroof Package + Navigation System	$1,695
EyeSight + Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross Traffic Alert	$1,195
Moonroof Package + Navigation System + EyeSight +Blind Spot Detection & Rear Cross Traffic Alert	$2,890
Moonroof Package +Keyless Access & Start + Navigation System	$2,195
Moonroof Pkg + Keyless Access & Start + Navigation System + EyeSight	$2,990

Source: Subaru

May 19, 2014

2015 Subaru WRX STI – Isle of Man Record Attempt

Subaru has plans to to set a new lap record at the Isle of Man TT course with the 2015 WRX STI. It is set to be driven by British rally champion Mark Higgins. The previous record is 19 minutes and 56.7 seconds, so the task is very tough.

2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine – 305HP (227 kW) and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) of torque. It is connected to a 6-speed manual transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel drive system

The model, which will make the attempt is going to be equipped with retuned springs and dampers to “minimize any potential damage when the car encounters the many bumps – and jumps – at high speed along the course”. Other improvements feature a roll-cage, a racing harness and a fire suppression system.

“Setting the record was totally exhilarating and one of the highlights of my career – Bray Hill certainly added to the thrill! As a Manxman, I love the TT Races and I have a huge amount of respect for the TT riders and what they do. It will be a real honor to attempt a new fastest car lap.”, commented Mark Higgins.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jFlSG9_Ue4A

Source: Subaru

May 8, 2014

2014 Subaru BRZ – Price Reduction

Subaru UK has announced a significant £2,500 price reduction for the 2014 BRZ and the sports car now starts at just £23,995 (on-the-road) for the SE Lux model with manual transmission and £25,495 for automatic models.

2014 Subaru BRZ is powered by a 2.0 litre horizontally-opposed Boxer petrol engine (200HP and 205Nm) and boasts a low centre of gravity and rear-wheel drive for engaging driving thrills. The BRZ has been reduced in price to ensure clear differentiation from the all-new All-Wheel Drive WRX STI saloon, Subaru’s flagship performance model.

The WRX STI arrives in showrooms during May, priced from £28,995 (OTR) – £4,000 less than the previous model.

The standard extras of BRZ SE Lux include Alcantara and leather trimmed seats and Torsen rear-axle differential which allows the keen driver to better exploit the sports car’s fine handling characteristics. Auto models feature steering wheel-mounted gear shift paddles.

“A more favourable exchange rate between the pound and yen has allowed us to reduce the price of a number of models in recent years, and our performance range – the BRZ and WRX STI – are the latest to benefit. Together, they represent outstanding value for enthusiast drivers seeking a high level of performance, driver interaction and entertainment on the road.”, explained Paul Tunnicliffe, Managing Director of Subaru UK.

Source: Subaru

April 29, 2014

2014 Subaru Impreza – Price £17,495

Subaru UK has revealed full details and pricing for the 2014 Impreza, which is expected to hit the market on 1^st of May.

2014 Subari Impreza will come with only one engine – a new 1.6 liter 114HP (84 kW) at 5,600RPM and 150Nm (111 lb-ft) of torque. The pricing starts from £17,495 for the 5-speed manual gearbox and £18,995 for models fitted with Subaru’s Lineartronic transmission. The Impreza will be the only car in the C-segment to offer All-Wheel Drive (AWD) as standard on every model. The dynamics is pretty poor – 0-100 km/h in 12.3 seconds and a top speed of 183 km/h (114 mph).

Standard equipment include automatic on/off headlamps and rain-sensing windscreen wipers, front fog lamps, power-folding heated door mirrors with LED turn signals, windscreen wiper de-icer system, 16” alloy wheels, tyre repair kit and daytime running lights. There is also a dual-zone air-conditioning, rear passenger heating and ventilation ducts, six-way manually-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, 60/40 split-fold rear seats, leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear knob, two 12V power outlets, USB and aux-in jacks, and a reversing camera.

Optional equipment features leather upholstery and a Pioneer satellite navigation system. Three exterior colours will be available: Satin White, Ice Silver and Quartz Blue.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Body and chassis

Five-door, five-seater hatchback, with all-steel unitary construction bodyshell. Longitudinally-mounted gasoline ‘flat-four’ Boxer engine driving the front and rear wheels (AWD) via a five-speed manual or six-speed Lineartronic CVT transmission.

Engines

1.6-litre / 114ps Petrol

Name	Boxer Petrol
Type	DOHC, horizontally opposed ‘flat four’ with dual AVCS
Capacity	1.6-litres, 1,600cc
Bore and stroke	78.8 x 82.0mm
Compression ratio	10.5:1
Max power	114ps (84kW) @ 5,600 rpm
Max torque	150Nm (111 lb ft) @ 4,000 rpm
Valves	16 (4-per-cylinder)
Fuel system	Multi-point injection
Construction	Aluminium cylinder block and aluminium heads
Emissions class	Euro Stage 6

Transmissions

Manual	5-speed
Automatic	CVT

Gear ratios

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
1	3.454	—-
2	1.888	—-
3	1.296	—-
4	0.972	—-
5	0.738	—-
Reverse	3.333	3.667
Final Drive 1	4.444	3.900
Drive range	—-	3.581 – 0.570

Drivetrains

1.6i MT	Symmetrical AWD with centre differential coupled to viscous LSD
1.6i CVT	Symmetrical AWD with active torque split system

Suspension and damping

Front	Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson struts, with coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar
Rear	Fully independent by subframe-mounted double wishbones, coil springs and gas-filled shock absorbers. Anti-roll stabiliser bar

Steering

Type	Electric power-assisted, rack-and-pinion
Turning circle	10.6 metres

Brakes

Front	277mm ventilated disc
Rear	274mm solid disc
ABS	Four-channel anti-lock system with EBD
BAS	Boosts braking power to maximum during emergency stops
EBS	Emergency Brake Assist

Wheels and tyres

Standard	Alloy 16-inch x 6.5J 205/55 R16 tyres
Spare (standard)	Tyre mobility kit

Dimensions (mm)

Overall length	4,415	Overall width**	1,740
Overall height*	1,465	Wheelbase	2,645
Front track	1,510	Rear track	1,515
Ground clearance	145

*with roof rails
**excluding door mirrors

Capacities (all models)

Fuel tank	55.0 litres
Luggage (VDA)	380 litres behind rear seats (with tyre repair kit) 1,270 litres behind front seats (to roof)

Weights (kg)

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Kerb weight	1,315	1,350
Towing (max) kg*	1,500	1,200

Performance

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Top speed / mph	114	111
0-to-62 mph / sec	12.3	12.6

Fuel economy (mpg)

	1.6i MT	1.6i CVT
Combined cycle	44.1	46.3
Urban cycle	34.4	37.2
Extra-urban cycle	53.3	54.3
CO₂ g/km	147	140

Source: Subaru

March 20, 2014

2014 Subaru XV Receives Number Of Upgrades

2014 Subaru XV was revealed two years ago, and now comes with strengthened capabilities and enhanced for the MY2014. The SUV has been improved in terms of handling, safety and cabin quality.

The suspension modifications which enhance ride quality have been added to all petrol variants. In addition, there have been also included new valve-train components that reduce engine noise. The electronic power steering system has been refined and now delivers better stability.

The new inflating dynamic damper system on the other hand minimizes steering wheel and column vibration. This system has been finely tuned and provides more weight, greater straight-line steering feel and a more linear steering response. The thicker, reshaped front suspension lower-arm and reinforcements around the base of the A-pillar serve to guarantee enhanced safety.

Inside, the cabin also received numerous updates such as the Subaru logo on the steering wheel, higher-quality silver surrounds housing the steering wheel buttons and heater controls, and new gloss-black switches which control the air-conditioning system.

As a standard now come the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and instrument cluster Gear Shift Indicator, which enhance safety and driver’s convenience. Two new exterior paint finishes have been added to the existing five, namely – Venetian Red Pearl and Quartz Blue Pearl.

Furthermore, Subaru did not make any changes to the equipment of the XV SE models. Therefore they will keep the auto lights and wipers, 17 inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps with pop-up wash, Hill Start Assist, dual–zone air conditioning, knee airbags, rear vision camera and Bluetooth. There will be no longer a Lux Premium trim level, because it has been replaced by the new SE Premium that adds satellite navigation and leather interior.

At last, 2014 Subaru XV will come as a standard with a permanent All-Wheel Drive. The model also has the highest ground clearance and is among the lightest vehicles in its class, It features a low centre of gravity that enhances the on-road handling.

Source: Subaru

February 12, 2014

Subaru Teases 2015 Legacy Ahead Of Chicago Debut

2015 Subaru Legacy Concept was introduced in November last year during the Los Angelis Auto Show. The model was designed with to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Legacy model and also offered a glimpse of what the future models in the line-up would look like.

Almost four months later, Subaru is putting into practice its promise and releasing the first teaser image of the new 2015 Legacy production sedan. The vehicle is set to debut on 6th of February at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show.

What we can conclude from the image is that the new Legacy will offers a sleeker, more coupe-like profile next to the faster windshield rake angle and narrower A-pillars. This contributes towards the sporty and modern appearance of the model.

Subaru stated that the Legacy will be a mid-size sports sedan that will deliver improved driveability and functionality while achieving a design required for a flagship model with a quality feel. It will sport a design infused with functionality in terms of roominess and visibility and will embody the design direction proposed by the Legacy Concept.

The Japanese brand didn’t reveal much in addition to this, so we have to wait until the official premiere. Whether the production sedan will look like the concept model will become clear in less than a week. Till then you can take a sneak peak of what the concept looks like:

Source: Subaru

January 31, 2014

2015 Subaru WRX STI – Highlights [video]

Subaru has published an interesting video showing some of the highlights of the all-new 2015 WRX STI. The model is exhibited at the 2014 NAIAS in Detroit and can be examined by the public there.

2015 Subaru WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 liter turbocharged boxer engine – 309HP (227 kW) at 6,000RPM and 393Nm (290 lb-ft) at 4,000RPM, while the non-STI model has 272HP (200 kW) and 349Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque from a 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbo boxer. No performance data available, but the WRX needs around 5.0 seconds for 0-100 km/h and the STI even less.

Both engines are available only with upgraded 6-speed manual sending the power to the symmetrical all-wheel drive system featuring a driver-controlled multi-mode center mechanical differential.

2015 WRX STI comes with 18” alloy wheels fitted with 245/40 R18 performance tires. There is also a performance braking system as well as an inverted-strut front suspension. The new WRX STI is available only as a sedan and it is scheduled to hit the market in Spring.

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H84X2ANdqDw

Source: Subaru

January 16, 2014

2015 Subaru WRX STI Starts With Limited Launch Edition

Subaru-WRX-STI-Launch-Edition-shadow As promised, the 2015 Subaru WRX STI is now official at the Detroit Auto Show. In what can be described as a celebratory spirit, the Japanese company has decided to sell 1000 units of it in limited form called the Launch Edition. It’s more recognizable feature is the only available paint job called WR Blue Pearl. Gold-painted 18-inch BBS alloy wheels finish the legendary look.

In true STI nature, the power comes from a 2.5-liter flat six – the whole 315 hp package that is. This, along with an STI Short-Throw Shifter 6-speed manual, should bring a genuine sproting feel to the driving experience. It’s the whole package really. You get a rather stiff chassis, Active Torque Vectoring, Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive…gasps for air… Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), and SI-DRIVE powertrain control system. Don’t forget the Brembo disc brakes and the Super Sport ABS that overseers them. Wheel size: 245/40 R18 all around. Inside, you should be expecting Alcantara, a bit of leather, black on blue color prevalence and STI logos sewn here and there. The steering wheel is new and is as flat-bottomed as it can be.

The Launch Edition is pretty well equipped with luxuries that will appeal normal people as well (as opposed to gear heads who drink brake fluid for breakfast). Consider the Keyless entry system, LED low-beam headlights, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, heated wing mirrors, windshield wiper de-icer, HD radio system with great USB connectivity, a 4.3-inch LCD screen with loads of information on it.

Source: Subaru

January 15, 2014

Tag: Subaru