It’s Getting Cooler Out… So What’s a Subaru Owner to do?

Go play in the snow of course! Motortrend takes the age-old STi versus EVO comparison to a frozen lake to get their impressions of both.

Billings Woman Doesn’t Let Car Thieves Get Her Down

Reported by the Billings Gazette:

“I went on an amazing run at my favorite place to run, and I came back and noticed my passenger side window was smashed,” said Kelly Naletelich, 23, of Billings.

A Billings woman took things into her own hands after someone broke into her car while she was jogging Zimmerman Trail on Sunday.

Naletelich said her GPS and her purse were stolen. Her purse had her wallet with all of her forms of ID, credit cards and cash.
She was only gone for 35 minutes, and by the time she got back to the car the theft had occurred.
Under an hour, Naletelich said two women were seen on surveillance cameras using her ID and credit card to purchase items in the Billings Heights, racking up charges of almost $700.

“Everyone was telling me don’t go back to Zimmerman, it’s not safe,” Naletelich said. “My mom was worried, and I said, ‘No, that’s my favorite place to jog. I’m not going to let it scare me.’”

To be safe, she plastered signs throughout her car telling the women she believes broke into her car to stay away. The signs attracted the attention of others at the park.
“I got probably at least six comments from people waiting around my car when I got back,” Naletelich said. “One guy said he had his car stolen and they dumped it up at Zimmerman, and he was proud of me for standing up and doing something.”

Read the original story here

A Newly Rendered 2013 WRX Concept Car. What do you think?

From Inside Line:

Last month, we brought you the first photos of the next-generation 2013 Subaru Impreza WRX in disguise. It was caught testing in Europe and even though it was covered from nose to tail in black camouflage, the Subaru Impreza prototype revealed a few details about the styling direction of the redesigned hatchback.

Up front, the test mule looks like it had a few design elements borrowed directly from the Hybrid Tourer Concept shown at the 2009 Tokyo Auto Show. The angular lines of the grille and front fascia are certainly different from the current Impreza and they point toward an even more aggressive look for the all-wheel-drive hatchback.

The grille no longer blends cleanly into the hood line, as you can clearly see two notches on each side that sharply define the opening. Separate headlights also appear to be part of the new design along with a new lower airdam and small front quarter windows just ahead of the side mirrors.

The changes out back are less dramatic. New taillights that are a little shorter and wider appear to be the most noticeable change, while the overall shape of the rear window looks much the same as the current WRX hatchback. Hard to tell what's going on with the tailpipes as the test mule had its exhaust tucked tightly under the bodywork. We can only hope that the production WRX gets a proper set of exhaust pipes when it arrives in production form.

When that will be is hard to tell at this point. We don't expect to see this Impreza on sale until 2012 given the recent upgrades made to the 2011 Impreza. With that in mind, look for a possible worldwide debut at the Tokyo auto show in November of next year.

Central High Student Explains Solar Car to President

Central High School Student, Mikayla Nelson explained to President Obama Monday, the solar-electric car that she and her team developed. Check out the video below for more. Congratulation Mikayla! Very well done!

The Subaru Forester S-Edition. Subaru's new full-size brawler?

So far, it's still just flying around in the rumor mill, but Automobilemag.com reports that Subaru may have a new, special-edition Forest on the way. The Subaru Forester S-Edition. This Forester would be directly based around Subaru's WRX. Sporting 260 horsepower, and roughly 256 ft-lbs of Torque, it'd be less powerful that the WRX, but it'd still pack on 36 horses on to the existing Forester XT; not a bad bump. This prototype is being prepared by Subaru Australia, but we're sure hoping they'll let the states in on some of that action.

For the whole story, automobilemag.com has more:

Subaru builds a mean, turbocharged flat-four-cylinder engine for its Impreza WRX -- but what happens when said engin

e is shoehorned into the engine compartment of the Forester crossover? The result is what Subaru dubs the Forester XT S-Edition concept, and depending on your country of residence, it may be destined for a dealer near you.

Prepared by Subaru's Australian wing, the XT S-Edition reportedly previews a

new trim level that is destined for the Aussie market early next year. Power comes courtesy of a WRX-spec turbocharged

2.5-liter boxer four, which cranks out 260 horsepower and 256 pound-feet of torque. That's roughly five horsepower less than a standard WRX, but an increase of roughly 36 ponies compared to the 2.5XT. Power is sent to Subaru's all-wheel-drive system via a five-speed automatic transmission.

According to the manufacturer's release, Subaru has also revised the Forester's suspension and all-wheel-drive systems for a sportier feel, although the precise details have yet to be revealed. Cosmetic revisions, however, are easy to spot. Clear turn signal indicators, STI-sourced 17-inch aluminum wheels, and special emblems are applied to the Forester's exterior, while the interior receives Alcantara-trimmed seating, drilled aluminum sport pedals, and unique gauges.

At this stage, the S-Edition shown here is simply a show car, but much like Cadillac's CTS-V Wagon show vehicle, this model will reach showroom floors. Subaru has only revealed that the Forester XT S-Edition is destined for Australia, but we hope that the model isn't locked to one specific market, as was the case with the JDM Forester STI.

Read the whole story here!

Spotted, the Toyobaru FT-86!

The latest photos of the new Subaru / Toyota coupe project are now in, along with interior pictures!

This is our first look at the inside of Subaru's first production coupe in 10 years.  Check out Subie-Life.net for some additional details.

Is Carbon Fiber soon going to be the norm? Subaru and Toyota are working hard for just that.

Right now the use of carbon fiber is limited to only the most high-end sports cars, and the ridiculously expensive aftermarket community. However, that separation may soon become a finer line. Vehicle manufacturers, Toyota and Subaru are working with Japanese carbon fiber company, Toray, to lower the cost on carbon fiber to the point where it can be used in the mainstream automotive market. Other manufacturers have used carbon fiber in the past to lower the overall weight of their cars, and lower the center of gravity to increase handling capability. GreenCarReports.com has more on this story;

Carbon fiber is seen by many in the auto industry as one of the most effective ways of reducing vehicle weight and thus improving fuel economy and emissions levels, but the relative expense of the material means that it’s still reserved for only a handful of high-end production cars. BMW has effectively used carbon fiber roofs for its M cars to help lower their center of gravity, and Nissan and General Motors have used the composite material to help save weight for the respective GT-R and ZR1 supercars.
For most automakers, mainstream carbon fiber use is still several years away but a number of firms, including Japanese carbon specialist Toray, are working closely with the auto industry to help bring down the cost of the lightweight stuff.

In fact, Toray has already announced a partnership with Daimler to produce carbon fiber parts for the German automaker’s cars and now there are reports coming out of Japan claiming Toray will also supply carbon fiber for Toyota and Subaru.

The Nikkei news daily is reporting that Toray will supply the two Japanese automakers with carbon fiber for car bodies later this year. The first batch of carbon fiber will be used for the hood and roof of the Lexus LFA supercar, which goes into full-scale production in December. Subaru will reportedly sell carbon roofs as an option on its sports cars.

Toray has pioneered a build process for its carbon fiber that reduces is costs by almost half, and this, combined with a rise in steel prices, means the advanced composite material is now looking more and more appealing to automakers around the globe.

Read the original story here!

Everyone likes a good car wash!

Thinking about getting into a Forester? Well, this commercial might just convince you. What do you get when to put a muddy Forester, soap, water, and six sumo wrestlers together? ...well, we're not sure so we'll let you make up your own mind!

Subaru’s “Announces” Their Most Mediocre Car Ever

They said it, not us. Subaru's 2011 'Mediocrity' features headlights, and mirrors... and that's about it. The Mediocrity's main mission is to be, according to their website,

"...the most mainstream mid-size sedan on the road today. Our company is extremely dedicated and passionate about "middle-of-the-road." Each and every day, we strive for predictability, unoriginality and no-frills utilitarianism for all of your transportation needs. The 2011 Mediocrity will get you from A to B without anybody ever noticing, and that's a good thing."

But before you start writing Subaru a letter asking what in the world they were thinking, calm down. The 2011 Mediocrity is part of Subaru's latest advertising campaign for the 2011 Subaru Legacy. Essentially, the idea is to point out everything that the Legacy is not. It's definitely a funny concept, and Subaru has certainly pulled this one of; including design videos, merchandise, and even an arcade-style video game... albeit, it's about the most boring game you'll probably EVER play. You can check out the 2011 Mediocrity website HERE.

Also, here's the latest ad video. We challenge you to not yawn while watching it.

If you want to race offroad, the Dakar Forester is the car for you. Built specifically for the Dakar Rally, this car embodies off road performance. Enjoy!

Russian Subaru Forester takes on some EXTREME Offroad

A Russian-built Subaru Forester sporting a full roll-cage.  Look out JEEP, Subaru is looking like a serious offroad contender!

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Pontiac GTO versus Subaru WRX STi. Inside Line gives you an impartial comparison

Pontiac GTO vs. Subaru WRX STi by Inside Line - Watch more Funny Videos

You Thought Subaru Wasn't Domestic. Guess Again.

The 'Indy Star' reported on September 22nd, that the Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. plans to add 100 full-time positions to their production line. This bring plant workers to nearly 3,300. This increased demand is attributed to rising sales of the Subaru Outback and Subaru Legacy. This is a promising sign for not only Subaru, but the nation as a whole. Kudos Subaru for creating even MORE American jobs. That's the Subaru Love at work.

(Visit the Indy Star story here)

Forester Goes Offroad, Where will YOUR Subaru take you?

Who says a Forester can’t hang with the big dogs? Jalopnik proves them wrong, when he hits some rough country that most of the off-road prepared JEEPs won’t even tackle!

Off-Roading A 2009 Subaru Forester from Jalopnik HD on Vimeo.

Subaru Annouces Their Participation in Fall Car Care Month

As of October 1st, Subaru has announced their involvement in Car Care month. This program stresses the importance of proper, regular vehicle maintenance in preparation for colder weather. Several Subaru dealerships, including Rimrock Subaru, are opening their doors to customers for free inspections. Click here for Rimrock Subaru's service specials.

PR News Wire has more on Fall Car Care Month:

-- Free Vehicle Diagnostic Inspections Offered to Subaru Drivers in October --
CHERRY HILL, N.J., Oct. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. announced today that the company is endorsing the Car Care Council's Fall Car Care Month, a nationwide October program highlighting the importance of regular vehicle maintenance. To help Subaru owners heed the council's advice to "Be Car Care Aware," most Subaru dealers are offering free vehicle diagnostic inspections in preparation for the demands of winter driving.

The Car Care Council notes that regularly maintaining your vehicle – including checking the oil, filters and fluids; belts and hoses; brakes and tires; and the air conditioning system – can preserve your automotive investment by helping your vehicle last longer.

"No matter where you live or what you drive, Fall is always a good time to prepare your vehicle for winter's cooler weather – and regular maintenance will also help improve your mileage, lower emissions, and improve the future resale value of your vehicle," notes Gary Palanjian, vice president of parts and service, Subaru of America, Inc. "We want every Subaru driver to enjoy the highest possible safety, performance and fuel economy, which is why we support Fall Car Care Month and offer the free service inspections."

During Fall Car Care Month, Subaru dealers will be performing a thorough no-obligation multi-point diagnostic checkup of all major operating systems, and owners will receive a written report of the vehicle's condition. Consumers can visit www.subaru.com to find a participating dealer.
About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 dealers across the United States. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.
About the Car Care Council

The Car Care Council is a national non-profit organization providing information for the "Be Car Care Aware" consumer education campaign that promotes the benefits of regular vehicle care, maintenance and repair. For more information, visit www.carcare.org.

Read the original article here, or print your Free inspection coupon here!

Subaru Rally Team Cleans up at New Jersey Rallycross

Subaru Rally team rock stars, Travis Pastrana and Dave Mirra took 2nd and 3rd place (respectively) this past weekend at Round 1 of the New Jersey Rallycross. The event, organized by RallyCar (once Rally America) took place at the Lightning Bolt course at the New Jersey Motorsports Park. The track featured three dirt sections on a 1.3 mile course. This represents a major debut for the sport of Rallycross in America. RallyBuzz has more information on the event!

(Aug 31, 2010) European-style wheel-to-wheel rallycross made its U.S. debut in thrilling style this past weekend in New Jersey with the help of a determined performance by Subaru driver Travis Pastrana in his 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Starting from the back of a six car grid after a restart, Pastrana worked his way through the field to finish 2nd overall in the final. Pastrana’s Subaru teammate, Dave Mirra, finished close behind in 3rd overall. The Rallycross, organized by RallyCar (formerly Rally America), was held at the Lightning Bolt course of New Jersey Motorsports Park, a 1.3 mile track which was modified to include three dirt sections. Pastrana’s performance wowed the thousands of fans in attendance and helped create a memorable debut for the sport in America.
Rallycross features wheel-to-wheel racing among production based cars on short tracks that feature a mix of tarmac and dirt. In addition to the dirt sections, rallycross tracks feature a “Joker” lap section that each car must take a once at some point during the race. A Joker lap is a small detour that typically takes the driver a few seconds longer to complete than the standard course lap. It adds a level of unpredictability to the race outcome and drivers must strategize on the optimal time to take the joker lap. Many of the cars competing in New Jersey were rally cars that also compete in the Rally America National Championship with the exception of a few purpose-built rallycross cars brought over from Europe. The sport is extremely popular in Europe, where the FIA’s European Rallycross Championship represents the highest and most competitive level of the sport. 

This was an absolute blast, a lot of fun,” said Pastrana. “This series has a chance to be the most epic and the most fun thing that anyone's ever raced and driven.”
Pastrana and Mirra were 2nd and 3rd quickest in qualifying, which determines lane choice and running group within three subsequent heats. Impressive performances in the heats solidified Pastrana and Mirra in 1st and 4th respectively for the A-Main, the final event. 

On the first lap of the A-Main, whilst trailing close to Tanner Foust, Pastrana pushed wide on a tarmac-to-dirt transition and impacted a tire wall. Pastrana was able to continue and his Subaru was undamaged, but the A-Main was red flagged due to the damaged and now mis-aligned tire wall. Pastrana was penalized to the back of the six car grid and the race was restarted, with a new standing start. With just five laps on the 1.3 mile course Pastrana quickly went to work pressuring and passing each driver in front of him with a show of skill and aggression that thrilled the thousands of fans in attendance. Pastrana eventually reached 2nd place and trailed Foust, the race leader by just seconds, but Pastrana had yet to complete his Joker lap and in doing so ran out of laps to continue his fight toward Foust. Pastrana exited the Joker lap just ahead of teammate Dave Mirra who was pressuring from behind, and the Subaru duo crossed the finish line in 2nd and 3rd Overall, with Tanner Foust taking victory.

Read the original story here!