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The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness is jacked ... up

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 06:40:06 -0400

The outdoorsy automaker unveiled the new 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness at the New York International Auto Show.

Wilderness is the brand's most rugged trim, which launched on the Outback in 2022 and is also available on the Forester.

The all-new Crosstrek is now the smallest Wilderness model available, but the changes it brings to Subaru's best-seller are pretty big.

SUBARU OUTBACK TOPS NEW IIHS CRASH TEST THAT CRUSHES OTHER MIDSIZE VEHICLES

Along with a heavy helping of protective black body cladding, it gets an upgraded off-road suspension and standard all-terrain-tires that increase its ground clearance from 8.7 inches to 9.3 inches, which is more than some trucks offer.

The Crosstrek Wilderness comes with the model line's top 182 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a CVT automatic transmission.

Its towing capacity is 3,500, the most of any Crosstrek model, thanks in part to new gear ratios in its drivetrain that also improve its off-road performance. A roof rack is included that's has a 700-pound static capacity, which is enough to support a tent.

Subaru's EyeSight electronic driver assist package with automatic emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control and other features is standard and calibrated to work with the mechanical upgrades. That's not really possible on a vehicle that's been modified with off-road equipment, something Crosstrek owners often do.

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The interior gets the Wilderness trim's signature copper accents, water-resistant StarTex upholstery and rubber floor mats.

Prices start at $33,290 and the only option is a package that adds a moonroof, power front passenger seat and Harmon Kardon 432-watt 10-speaker system audio system for $2,270.

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Deliveries of the Crosstrek Wilderness are scheduled to begin this fall.

Watch: Subaru wagon jumps helicopter in wild new Gymkhana video

Tue, 06 Dec 2022 12:27:11 -0500

Travis Pastrana sure knows how to have a relaxing vacation.

Well, relaxing for him.

The action sports star's latest Gymkhana stunt driving video has dropped on YouTube and opens with him dropping out of a window.

Pastrana took the reins of the long-running viral video series from Ken Block in 2020, and this year's effort begins with him base jumping from a tall building in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

WILD POLICE CHASE SALUTES WORLD WAR II VETS

After a short beach-side recovery, he hops into a 1983 Subaru GL wagon and goes for a spin around town, quite literally at times.

It is not an ordinary Subaru, of course. It is called The Family Huckster and been rebuilt with an 862 horsepower engine, a rally style hand brake for initiating slides and carbon fiber bodywork with active aerodynamic panels that open up to use the air to affect its handling, braking and just look cool.

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After drifting through downtown for a bit and doing donuts around the famous Grave Digger monster truck as it does the vehicular version of a handstand, he makes a beeline for the Everglades.

On the way, he drag races a 3,000 hp Chevrolet El Camino and tears down a viaduct alongside a low-flying jet before jumping a bridge at over 160 mph.

Since that was pretty much a piece of cake, he follows up by jumping over an open bridge with a helicopter hovering beneath the gap. No big deal.

"Gymkhana 2022 is the wildest film I have done on four wheels. Period," Pastrana said.

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The video wraps up with him facing off with the helicopter on an old airstrip then taking a bizarre turn onto a new career path that you'll have to watch the video to see.

Review: The 2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness is a tougher trucklet

Sat, 27 Aug 2022 08:25:01 -0400

The Subaru Forester is trying to stay ahead of the backpack pack.

From the Ford Bronco Sport to the Toyota Rav4 Adventure and Mazda CX-50 Meridian it seems like everyone is following Subaru’s hiking boot prints these days by adding off-road compact SUVs to their lineups.

Now Subaru is literally upping its game with the new Forester Wilderness, which features new equipment and an increased ride height to improve its rough road capability. It’s the second model from the growing Wilderness family, which launched with the Outback Wilderness last year.

The Forester Wilderness gets a half-inch boost in ground clearance to 9.2 inches, chunky black body cladding, redesigned bumpers, a metal front skid plate and a set of black 17-inch wheels with all-terrain tires including a full-size spare, because a donut won't cut it in the vehicle's namesake locale.

TEST DRIVE: THE 2021 SUBARU OUTBACK WILDERNESS CAN GET YOU FARTHER OUT BACK

It also has a beefed-up roof rack rated to hold up to 220 pounds while the vehicle is in motion and 800 pounds when parked. That makes it suitable for a roof-mounted pop-up tent.

The 182 hp 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder engine, CVT transmission and all-wheel-drive system are shared with all the other Foresters, but the Wilderness gets new gear ratios for added grunt and its towing capacity doubled to 3,000 pounds.

The Forester has one of the roomiest passenger compartments in segment and the Wilderness adds water-resistant synthetic upholstery, a full complement of rubber floor mats for passengers and cargo and plenty of the Wilderness line’s signature copper trim.

A front nose camera that displays on the small information screen at the top of the dashboard is standard and helpful for tricky terrain -- or parallel parking spaces. Subaru’s X-Mode traction management system has been upgraded and has settings for deep snow and mud, plus a hill descent control that can maintain speed on an incline without the driver having to use the brakes. You might not even need that front camera because, as with all Foresters, the Wilderness has giant windows and narrow roof pillars that give it great visibility all around.

The improvements are quickly made evident on dirt and gravel roads, even with a few big rocks thrown in. It's still not a 4x4, but its limits have definitely been stretched, and it gives the impression it can take a pretty good licking over the long haul.

SUBARU OUTBACK TOPS NEW IIHS CRASH TEST THAT CRUSHES OTHER VEHICLES

Even with the changes, it retains a stable on-road ride that doesn’t feel tippy or bouncy, and comes with the Subaru EyeSight suite of electronic driver aids with lane-centering adaptive cruise control. The system has been recalibrated to work with the Wilderness updates, something you can’t do yourself to a modified Forester. Road and wind noise are a bit higher than the class standard, but outweighed by its other attributes.

Prices start at $34,695 and the only option is a $1,850 package that includes navigation, a Harmon Kardon premium audio system and a power-opening liftgate.

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The main drawback is that the changes made to the aerodynamics, drivetrain and rolling resistance of the knobby tires contribute to a drop in highway fuel economy from the 33 mpg of other Foresters to 28 mpg, while the low speed city figure on falls from 26 mpg to 25 mpg.

That’s a good enough reason as any to spend more time the trails it was built for.

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2022 Subaru Forester Wilderness

Base price: $34,695

As tested: $36,545

Type: 5-passenger, 4-door, all-wheel-drive SUV

Engine: 2.4-liter four-cylinder

Power: 182 hp, 176 lb-ft

Transmission: CVT automatic

MPG: 28 hwy/25 city

Subaru Outback tops new IIHS crash test that crushes other midsize vehicles

Thu, 04 Aug 2022 00:01:20 -0400

The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) has sent seven 2022 model year midsize vehicles through its latest crash test procedure, and only one of them was good at it.

The Subaru Outback received the top possible score of Good in the updated side impact test, which simulates a 4,200 pound vehicle traveling at 37 mph T-boning the vehicle.

Those numbers are up from 3,300 pounds and 31 mph in the previous version of the test and results in 82% more energy being applied to the vehicle being struck.

The Hyundai Sonata and Volkswagen Jetta both received Acceptable scores and the Honda Accord Marginal, while the Chevrolet Malibu, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry were all rated Poor. Every one of the vehicles scored Good on the previous test.

IIHS President David Harkey suggested that the high-riding nature of the Outback, which some would classify more as an SUV than a midsize wagon, helped its performance. In fact, during a round of side impact testing last year that involved 18 midsize SUVs, 10 received Good scores and none were rated Poor.

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"With vehicles that sit lower to the ground, the striking barrier hits higher on the door panel, he said.

The Altima and Malibu were specifically called out for allowing significant cabin intrusion, while the Camry fared better in this regard.

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However, the side curtain airbags in all three vehicles allowed the head of either the driver or rear passenger dummy, or both, to slip beneath the airbag and strike the windowsill.

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The tests are just preliminary at this point and meant to give automakers a benchmark, but starting next year a Marginal score will be required to earn an IIHS Top Safety Pick award and a Good score to get the highest Top Safety Pick+ designation.

American cars? You might not know these models are made in the USA

Thu, 28 Jul 2022 02:00:06 -0400

There's no telling where "American" cars come from these days.

Buick imports the Envision from China.

The Jeep Renegade is built in Italy.

And the Ford EcoSport took the long journey from India to showrooms before it was discontinued this year.

But there are also plenty of cars that are made in the USA that might not be so obvious.

Here are a few that are hiding in plain sight:

SUBARU OUTBACK

It may have an Australian name and come from a Japanese company, but the Subaru Outback is built right in the heartland in Lafayette, Indiana, alongside the Ascent, Legacy and Impreza.

The Outback is the brand's best-selling car so far in 2022.

ACURA NSX

The Acura NSX has the sleek lines and technology of an exotic machine, but the mid-engine hybrid sports car was designed in the USA and has been built at Honda's Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio since 2016.

Production is slated to end later this year with a limited run of 600-horsepower NSX Type S cars that start at $171,495.

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VOLVO S60

Swedish automaker Volvo is owned by China's Geely these days, but the S60 sedan is built its factory in Charleston, South Carolina.

It'll be joined there soon by the Polestar 3 three-row electric SUV from Volvo's all-electric sister brand.

NISSAN LEAF

Nissan's first electric car was launched a decade ago at its factory in Smyrna, Tennessee, and is still being built there in its second generation.

The Leaf is currently the cheapest electric car to buy in the U.S. at $20,925, but only after the $7,500 federal tax credit is deducted.

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MERCEDES-MAYBACH GLS 600

The $166,150 Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 is one of the most luxurious SUVs in the world, but the full-size flagship is very much made for the American market at the brand's factory in Vance, Alabama.

It's also the most expensive SUV built in the USA, just ahead of the Texas-made $149,990 Cadillac Escalade-V.

EVERY TESLA SOLD IN THE U.S.

Tesla has factories in China and Germany — but every one of the four models it sells in the U.S. are made either at its Fremont, California, or Austin, Texas, assembly plants.

That'll also be true when the Cybertruck pickup debuts next year and is exclusively manufactured in Texas.

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"Hardly anyone knows this," Elon Musk tweeted when the company dominated the Cars.com's Most American-Made list this year.

This is the hottest new car on sale

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 11:01:24 -0400

It's turning out to be a long hot summer for car shoppers.

New cars remain in tight supply due to the ongoing supply chain issues affecting the industry.

It's driving up prices, but not slowing down sales, as buyers are scooping up some cars and trucks as soon as they hit showrooms.

One brand in particular is having trouble keeping up with demand.

The Subaru Crosstrek was the fastest-selling new car in June, according to a new report from online marketplace iseecars.com.

Dealers needed just 12.9 days to turn one off their lots. That's nearly three times faster than the current industry average of 37.2 days, which is down significantly from historic norms.

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Crosstrek prices start at $24,870, but the average transaction price paid in June was $30,299, which is around what a top of the line model lists for.

The larger Subaru Forester was third on the list at 14.7 days and the Subaru Impreza, which is like the Crosstrek but without its off-road capability, fifth at 18.5 days.

Sandwiched between them were the Honda Civic in second and the Honda CR-V in fourth at 17.7 days.

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The CR-V is in particularly short supply as Honda is in the process of transitioning production to an all-new 2023 model that's launching later this summer.

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Rounding out the top 10 on the list were the Kia Telluride, Kia Forte, BMW X3, Ford Bronco and Hyundai Tucson Hybrid.

The 2023 Subaru Outback is a 3-eyed SUV

Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:53:24 -0400

The 2023 Subaru Outback has its eyes on the road. All three of them.

The popular SUV has been refreshed with a more rugged-looking front design and more pronounced protective wheel-arch cladding, but it's the new tech that may keep you the safest.

Subaru's camera-based EyeSight safety system, which enables features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, now has a third camera in top of the line Outback Touring models to improve its vision. The wide angle mono-camera works in conjunction with EyeSight's two existing stereoscopic cameras to expand the system's view and allows it to detect pedestrians and bicycles at intersections earlier and react more quickly.

They're not the only cameras on the lookout, however. The Outback is also equipped with an infrared facial recognition system that reminds drivers to keep their eyes on the road with lights and increasingly loud sounds if they start to stray. It can also recognize exactly who is in the driver's seat and greet them with personalized messages and reminders on the screen for the infotainment system, which now has standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration in all trims.

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The 2023 Outback is largely mechanically the same as the current model that debuted in 2020, with a few adjustments to content across its trim levels. Pricing will be announced closer to when it goes on sale later this year.

Subaru is killing the gas version of this iconic model

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 12:31:33 -0400

Subaru is easing up on the gas. Gasoline, that is.

The automaker has confirmed it will not be replacing its iconic WRX STI performance car with a new one based on the latest WRX, but is instead planning to electrify the rally-inspired model.

"As the automotive marketplace continues to move towards electrification, Subaru is focused on how our future sports and performance cars should evolve to meet the needs of the changing marketplace and the regulations and requirements for greenhouse gasses (GHG), zero emissions vehicles (ZEV), and Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ)," Subaru said in a news release on the decision.

"As part of that effort, Subaru Corporation is exploring opportunities for the next generation Subaru WRX STI, including electrification. In the meantime, a next generation internal combustion engine WRX STI will not be produced based upon the new WRX platform. "

The Impreza-based WRX is all-new for 2022 with a 271 hp turbocharged engine while the last WRX STI offered in 2021 was rated at 310 hp and featured additional performance enhancements that included an upgraded suspension and brakes plus an aerodynamic package featuring the model's signature oversized hoop-style rear wing.

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Subaru currently offers a plug-in hybrid version of the Crosstrek SUV and will be launching its first all-electric vehicle, the Solterra, later this year. The Solterra is a compact SUV that shares its platform with the upcoming Toyota bZ4x.

The two automakers also collaborate on the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 sports cars, which use the same chassis and powertrain.

Subaru did not offer a timeframe for when a new WRX STI will be introduced.

Consumer Reports says these are the best and worst car brands

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 12:45:59 -0500

America's automakers have some homework to do.

The 2022 edition of the Consumer Reports car brand report card finds six mainstream Japanese brands in the top 10 and the highest American brand, Buick, in 11th place.

Subaru received the highest overall score, which combines the results of first-hand testing by Consumer Reports with survey responses from owners, followed by Mazda, BMW, Honda, Lexus, Audi, Porsche, Mini, Toyota and Infiniti.

Chrysler and Dodge trailed Buick among the U.S. automakers in 13th and 15th places.

"Brands that rise to the top tend to have the most consistent performance across their lineups," senior director of automotive testing Jake Fisher said.

"For mainstream brands like Subaru, Mazda and Honda to have such a strong showing is remarkable."

Consumer Reports ranked Jeep at the bottom of the list and called out the Gladiator pickup's reliability as a main reason for the poor showing. GMC, Mitsubishi, Land Rover and Alfa Romeo finished ahead of it in ascending order.

Closely watched Tesla, which has had a tumultuous relationship with Consumer Reports over the years, was ranked 23rd of the 32 brands included in the study, "mainly" due to the unusual and difficult-to-use yoke steering wheel introduced last year in the Model S and Model X.

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Consumer report also named the electric Ford Mustang Mach-E its top pick among electric cars, ahead of the similar Tesla Model Y, which is currently not recommended by the organization.

Here's a list of additional top picks by price range:

Under $25,000

Nissan Sentra

Nissan Rogue Sport

$25,000 to $35,000

Subaru Forester

Toyota Prius/Prius Prime

Honda Accord

$35,000 TO $45,000

Toyota Rav4 Prime

Kia Telluride

Honda Ridgeline

$45,000 TO $55,000

Lexus RX

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Test drive: The 2022 Subaru WRX is wild

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 16:08:17 -0500

Subaru’s lineup is primarily comprised of family-friendly SUVs, but the brand does like to get a little wild sometimes.

Along with the redesigned BRZ coupe that recently went on sale, Subaru has an all-new WRX sports sedan coming to showrooms this spring.

The Impreza-based compact has been the beating heart of Subaru’s performance side for the past three decades and enters its sixth-generation as the most potent version of the rally-inspired model yet.

The all-wheel-drive WRX is built on a stiffer chassis than the outgoing model and features a larger turbocharged flat-four-cylinder engine with 2.4-liters of displacement that’s rated at 271 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Indicative of its enthusiast appeal, a six-speed manual transmission is standard. Around 85 percent of the previous edition’s buyers chose it over the optional CVT automatic, one of which remains available on the 2022 model under the Subaru Performance Transmission branding that mimics the operation of an 8-speed gearbox. The manual also gets slightly better fuel economy than the automatic – 19 city/26 hwy v 19 city/25 hwy -- which isn’t usually the case in modern cars.

Final pricing hasn’t been announced, but it shouldn’t be much more than the $28,420 that the 2021 WRX started at.

Among the styling elements that help set the WRX apart from the Impreza are prominent black wheel arch covers that look more like what you’d find on an off-road SUV, with the front ones vented to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

Inside, the WRX features red accent stitching, a touch of carbon fiber trim, a flat-bottom steering wheel and sport seats. It’s only slightly larger outside and in than the car it replaces and remains very much a compact, unlike some competitors that have grown into near midsize cars in recent years. The second row seating area is accommodating, but not exceptionally spacious, and rear headroom is tight.

A large tablet-style display fills the center of the dashboard and is used for most functions, but is flanked by physical volume and tuning knobs along with rocker buttons to control the temperature. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration are included in the infotainment system.

A new top of the line GT model adds even more aggressive Recaro front seats and computer-controlled adjustable shock absorbers, by my test car was a mid-level Limited trim with the six-speed.

The clutch is firm and the stick’s throws are longish and notchy, but direct. A collar release for reverse makes parallel parking a little awkward, but the WRX was very much designed for being driven forward.

There’s a just hint of entertaining turbo lag when you slam the accelerator before the torque kicks in and powers you away with some authority, but not too much. The WRX is quick, but not scary as the all-wheel-drive system puts the power down without much slip to rocket you away from a stop.

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The steering is very responsive to even the smallest inputs and the platform neat and tidy as it follows it through curves. I took it on a twisty gravel road in the spirit of its rallying background and had an absolute blast even on the low-profile, all-season street tires it was equipped with.

The ride quality is a bit stiff for a daily commute, but the visibility provided by a low belt line and large windows is fantastic and the WRX shines on fresh, smooth pavement. One drawback of going with the manual, however, is a lack of electronic driver aids for boring highway trips.

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Unlike the automatic that comes with Subaru’s full EyeSight package –automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, etc. – manual cars make do with a blind spot monitoring system.

That probably won’t be an issue for the WRX’s target audience, which is a small, but loyal niche that should be very pleased with the latest installment of their favorite driver's car.

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2022 Subaru WRX

Base price: $29,000 (EST)

Type: 5-passenger, 4-door, all-wheel-drive sedan

Engine: Turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder

Power: 271 hp, 258 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed manual

MPG: 19 city/26 hwy

The 2023 Subaru Solterra electric off-road SUV is a Toyota in disguise

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 09:29:40 -0500

It's share and share alike for Toyota and Subaru.

Subaru has unveiled the electric 2023 Solterra SUV that will go on sale next year, which is the brand's version of the Toyota bZ4X and set to be built alongside it at Toyota's ZEV Factory in Japan.

The two automakers have previously teamed up on a Subaru-built sports car sold under the Subaru BRZ and Toyota GR86 names.

The Solterra will come standard with a 215 hp all-wheel-drive system in the U.S. and an estimated range of 220 miles per charge, which can be replenished to 80% in less than an hour at a public fast charging station.

The compact SUV has 8.3 inches of ground clearance – which is more than many compact SUVs but less than other Subarus – and a traction management system programmed with an X-Mode optimized for off-pavement driving.

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Pricing has not been announced, but the Solterra is scheduled to go on sale in the middle of 2022 as Subaru's first all-electric model.

These are the 5 cheapest sports cars on sale today

Mon, 01 Nov 2021 13:09:27 -0400

It's a seller's market, but buyers looking for a fun car still have a chance.

Prices for new and used vehicles have hit record levels this year amid the ongoing parts and supply issues caused by the coronavirus pandemic.

The average price paid for a new model was over $40,000 in September and most used ones were selling for more than $30,000.

Those figures cover the full span of vehicles, from subcompacts to full-size trucks, but, believe it or not, there are still a few sports cars that start at less than the average price of a pre-owned ride.

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Toyota just announced the base price for the 2022 GR86 at $28,695, and its not even the cheapest one available. Here's a look at the five lowest-priced sports cars you can buy today, with "sports car" defined in this case as a rear-wheel-drive two-door that offers a manual transmission.

SUBARU BRZ: $28,995

The Subaru BRZ is essentially the same car as the Toyota GR86, but with a slightly different attitude. Both of the lightweight 2+2 coupes are powered by a 228 hp 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder from the Subaru parts bin, but the BRZ is tuned to ride and handle more like a GT than a track car.

Toyota GR86: $28,695

The GR86 comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission and cloth upholstery that makes it the perfect template for tuners to go to work on.

Ford Mustang EcoBoost: $28,400

The Mustang may be better suited for a V8, but the EcoBoost's 310 hp turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder makes it the muscle car of this bunch.

Mazda MX-5 Miata: $27,825

The Miata has been the quintessential affordable sports car for over three decades and the latest version continues the tradition with its tiny, two-seat convertible body and peppy 181 hp 2.0-liter four cylinder engine.

Chevrolet Camaro: $26,195

The Camaro battles the Mustang for pony car supremacy with a 275 hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but it hasn't helped in the sales race, where the Mustang lineup leads the Camaro's by over 2.5 to one.

Long-lost Subaru rally car found in shed sold for $360K in Bitcoin

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 12:43:35 -0400

An old Subaru stashed in the back of a Victorian shed has sold for $500,000 ($360,000 USD) in Bitcoin at an Australian auction.

The classic Subaru WRX was originally thought to be worth $15,000 to $20,000, according to Lloyds Auctions, until an investigation into its provenance revealed the car was particularly significant.

Built by British firm Prodrive for the World Rally Championship, the car was driven by champion drivers Carlos Sainz and Colin McRae on the global stage.

Subaru’s original WRX won world titles and helped establish the brand’s reputation around the globe for rugged dependability and low-cost performance.

The car’s results transformed the image of Subaru, making the brand’s performance cars some of the most desirable machines on the road - particularly for young enthusiasts.

McRae’s car shot to stardom as the core of a smash-hit 1998 PlayStation game, Colin McRae Rally.

Lloyds Auctions said the Victorian "barn find" was an original car preserved in time-warp condition from its days as a state-of-the-art racing machine.

Pre-auction hype suggested the dusty blue car could be worth more than $1 million ($720,000 USD.)

It didn’t fetch quite that sum, instead attracting a maximum bid of $500,000 ($360,000 USD.)

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Intriguingly for such a valuable car, the Subaru was purchased using Bitcoin. At today’s rate of $60,450 ($44,000) or so, that equates to 8.271 Bitcoins.

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The Subaru Forester Wilderness was designed to go deep into the woods

Mon, 06 Sep 2021 13:33:09 -0400

Subaru's new compact SUV should come with a can of Deep Woods Off.

The 2022 Forester Wilderness is a new, extra-rugged version of the model in the same fashion as the recently introduced Outback Wilderness.

The Wilderness trim is similar in concept to Jeep's Trailhawk and expected to expand across its lineup in the coming years.

The Forester Wilderness gets an extra half-inch of ground clearance to 9.2 inches, retuned suspension, reprogrammed traction management system, trim-specific wheels with knobby all-terrain tires, protective body cladding, unique interior accents and a roof rack with a static rating of 800 pounds that can accommodate a tent.

FOX NEWS CAR REVIEWS: 2021 SUBARU OUTBACK WILDERNESS

It also features the refreshed styling that the entire Forester lineup has received and an updated EyeSight electronic driver aid system that includes an optional evasive steering assist that can help guide the car around obstacles during emergency braking situations if there's room within the lane the vehicle is in.

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Pricing for the Forester starts at $26,320 with the Wilderness listed at $33,945 when it hits showrooms later this year.

Test drive: The 2021 Subaru Outback Wilderness can get you farther out back

Fri, 28 May 2021 12:56:59 -0400

The Subaru Outback has been taking people into the great outdoors for over a quarter-century, and now there’s one to help you avoid all of them who are crowding up the place.

The Outback Wilderness is the most off-road capable version of the popular wagon utility vehicle. Subaru says it didn’t design it for the purpose of going 4x4 driving, but rather to get its most adventurous customers to more remote locations for the other fun stuff they like to do like rock climbing, kayaking and searching for bigfoot, I suppose.

It’s the first of what will likely become a sub-brand of slightly more extreme machines for Subaru and instantly recognizable by its chunky matte black bumpers, wheel arch protection and giant fender badges, which look inspired by park service logos.

Its suspension has been redesigned and uses longer coils to help increase its ground clearance from Subaru’s signature 8.7 inches to 9.5 inches, which is more than some pickups and real deal SUVs offer. It has a front skid plate, four tow hooks hidden behind copper covers and knobby all-terrain tires on 17-inch wheels including a full-size spare mounted to the same rim design.

The all-wheel-drive system has been updated with lower gearing to deliver a little more grunt from the 260 hp 2.4-liter flat-four-cylinder to the wheels through the Outback’s continuously variable transmission, and the X-Drive traction management system reprogramed to make the most of it on a variety of surfaces.

Water-resistant upholstery, an uncarpeted rear seatback and rubber floor mats are aimed at better handling messes, while a stronger roof rack with a 700-pound static weight rating can handle a rooftop tent. It uses fixed crossbars for the extra strength, however, rather than the Outback’s trick foldaway type.

On the road, the Outback Wilderness feels like a lifted custom and a bit more roly-poly than the other models, but the EyeSight electronic safety system, with automatic brakes, lane keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, has been calibrated to accommodate for the changes. Try doing that in your garage on a modified vehicle.

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A couple of quick saws at the steering wheel are all it takes to get the stability control system to engage, and very evident of Subaru’s safety-first philosophy, even if you plan to do life-threatening activities once you get out of the vehicle.

Stay in it when the road gets rough and you’ll find that it’s a very competent machine. Eight tenths of an inch doesn’t sound like much, but it does wonders for approach, departure and breakover angles and can unlock new levels in your favorite forest.

It’s not afraid to go for a swim, either. The ambitiously rugged trail Subaru set up at the Monticello Motor Club for a test included a rocky stream that was deep enough to reach over the bottom of the doors and create bow waves that crested the hood. Suffice it to say, I made it out with dry shoes and the engine running.

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The all-wheel-drive system is commendable, but does still slip more than a true 4x4 system would on steep loose slopes as it decides where to send the power. On the way down, the hill-descent control locks it at crawl speed without any need to hit the brakes and gives you time to enjoy the view through the optional front camera.

Fuel economy drops from 26 mpg combined to 24 mpg due to the tires and an aerodynamic profile compromised by the lift, but the Wilderness maintains the Outback’s 3,500 towing rating.

The Outback Wilderness starting price of $38,840 drops it into the lineup among the more luxury-mined Limited and Touring models, but it rises above all of them.

2022 Subaru Outback Wilderness debuts

Wed, 07 Apr 2021 14:48:57 -0400

The latest Subaru Outback can go farther out back.

The 2022 Outback Wilderness model is the most off-road capable version of the SUV ever made.

The new trim features a raised right height that provides 9.5 inches of ground clearance, up from 8.7 inches, an updated suspension with new springs and shocks, increased wheel travel and a unique all-wheel-drive system with improved off-road performance.

A 260 hp 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four-cylinder engine is standard along with a CVT automatic transmission. The Wilderness has a tow rating of 3,500 pounds and fixed roof rack supports that can hold up to 700 pounds.

The bumpers, wheel fender flares and rocker panel cladding have been redesigned for better protection on rough roads and all-terrain tires on 17-inch wheels are standard, including a full-size spare in case you get into trouble in a remote location.

Steel underbody skidplates will be offered as optional accessories.

The interior is upholstered in water-resistant fabric and features copper-colored accents to set the Wilderness apart from the rest of the Outback lineup.

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Pricing for the Outback Wilderness has not been announced, but will likely slot above the $38,545 Touring trim when it hits showrooms this spring to compete against a growing number of crossovers with off-road chops that includes the Jeep Cherokee Trailhawk and Toyota Rav4 TRD Off Road.

2022 Subaru BRZ debuts with more power

Wed, 18 Nov 2020 15:10:42 -0500

The Subaru BRZ is coming back as the automaker reveals an all-new version for 2022.

The rear-wheel-drive two-door sports car is the odd-man-out in Subaru’s lineup as the only model without all-wheel-drive.

As with the 2013-2020 model, the BRZ is a joint venture with Toyota, which sold a nearly identical car as the 86 and Scion FR-S.

The new one is less than an inch longer than the one it replaces, but Subaru increased the size of its flat-four-cylinder engine from 2.0 liters to 2.4 liters to improve horsepower from 205 hp to 228 hp. It is available with either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

DRIVERS OF THIS CAR GET THE MOST SPEEDING TICKETS

Subaru hasn’t announced performance specifications, but said the engine is mounted lower in the chassis to improve its center of gravity and that it’s only gained 17-41 pounds, depending on the model.

Pricing will be released closer to when the BRZ goes on sale late next year, but the previous edition started at $27,745.

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See it: Stuntman Travis Pastrana jumps waterway in Annapolis

Fri, 23 Oct 2020 08:57:27 -0400

Talk about a hometown hero.

Annapolis native Travis Pastrana took to the air over Maryland’s capital on Thursday as he jumped a car over a famous downtown landmark.

The racing and extreme motorsports star was filming a stunt video for Ken Block’s Hoonigan Industries brand when he took a modified Subaru WRX STI off a ramp and over an inlet known as Ego Alley as a cigarette boat passed underneath him.

The waterway is a well-known spot near the U.S. Naval Academy where sailors parade their prized ships, but few have ever drawn the kind of attention Pastrana did. Onlookers captured amateur footage of the stunt and posted it to social media.

The 100-or-so-foot jump wasn't the first time Pastrana took to the air over water. In 2009 he broke a record held by Ken Block when he jumped a rally car 269 feet from a Long Beach, Calif., pier onto a barge.

Pastrana’s jump and other stunt driving from Annapolis will be featured in the eleventh edition of Hoonigan’s “Gymkhana” series, which does not yet have a release date.

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These are the only station wagons still on sale in the USA

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 10:14:43 -0400

And then there were eight.

The Jaguar XF Sportbrake has been discontinued for 2021.

So have plenty of vehicles, but what makes this significant is that “Sportbrake” is a fancy way to say “station wagon,” and whatever you like to call it, this type of vehicle is quickly going extinct in the United States.

American brands don’t even make them anymore, ever since the Buick Regal TourX ended production for the U.S. this year, and many of the ones that are left are disguised as SUVs

For those of you who just can’t bear to drive an actual utility vehicle, here are the station wagon options that remain:

Audi A4/A6

Audi offers wagons in two size classes, which is enough to make it one of the leaders in the segment. The $45,645 A4 allroad and $66,945 A6 allroad are compact and midsized models with rugged styling and a raised ride heights that hint at adventure, while the RS6 Avant is a 591 hp super wagon with a 189 mph top speed and a starting price of $110,045.

Ferrari GTC4 Lusso

It may stretch the definition of the name, but the Ferrari GTC4Lusso holds the distinctions of being the only 2-door and V12-powered wagon you can buy — if you can afford it's $263,750 starting price.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Not to be overshadowed by its German competitor, the Mercedes-Benz E-Class wagon is available as either the “brawny” $68,595 All-Terrain or the sporty $112,745 AMG E 63 S, which takes on the RS6 Avant with a 603 hp V8.

MINI Clubman

The MINI Clubman is the smallest wagon on sale today, but with a base price of $30,750 it’s not the cheapest. Barn-style rear doors add to its quirkiness while the top of the line $40,350 John Cooper Works model comes with all-wheel-drive and a 301 hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

Porsche Panamera Sport Turismo

Not to be outdone by Sportbrake on the cool wagon euphemism tier chart, Porsche calls its Panamera-based wagons Sport Turismos. Prices run from $99,350 to a whopping $193,050 for the Turbo S E-Hybrid, which is the world's most powerful wagon and combines a turbocharged V8 and plug-in electric power to provide 677 hp, a 192 mph top speed and 11 miles of all-electric driving.

Subaru Outback

The Outback plays the part of a compact SUV in the brand's lineup, but if you strip away the body cladding, roof racks and lifted suspension you’ll pretty much end up with the body of a Subaru Legacy wagon, which doesn’t actually exist. At $27,845, the Outback the both lowest-priced wagon and the only one still made in USA.

Volvo V60/V90

Volvo offers a wide array of midsize V60 and full-size V90 wagons from $42,590 to $68,940 that include conventional models, Cross Country versions dressed to get dirty and the V60 Recharge plug-in hybrid that’s designed to help clean the air.

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People who drive this car get the most speeding tickets, study says

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 08:29:08 -0400

It appears that there are two very different kinds of Subaru drivers.

On the one hand, you’ve got the outdoorsy types with the dogs and the camping and all that, but the others have a need for speed and aren’t very good at keeping it to themselves.

A new study from insurance comparison site Insurify that looked at over 2 million insurance applications found that drivers of the Subaru WRX compact sports car are more likely than any to have a speeding ticket on their driving record.

A whopping 20.49% of WRX owners in the group said they had received a citation, which is nearly twice the national average of 10.54%. The WRX also claimed the dubious title last year.

The Volkswagen GTI, which is one of the WRX competitors, was second at 17.38% while the Subaru Impreza that WRXs are based on came in third at 15.9%. The Infiniti G37 (15.61%) and Dodge Dart (15.45%) rounded out the top five.

FOX NEWS AUTOS TEST DRIVE: SUBARU OUTBACK

Dodge and sister company Ram put four models on the list, with the Dodge Challenger of 200+ mph Hellcat fame, Ram 2500 pickup and Dodge Charger sedan taking the seventh through ninth spots behind the Hyundai Veloster in sixth and ahead of the Nissan 350Z in 10th.

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The best vehicles of 2020 for every budget, according to Consumer Reports

Fri, 21 Feb 2020 10:19:19 -0500

Consumer Reports has released its list of 10 Top Pick vehicles to buy for 2020, and there’s a big change this year.

Instead of categorizing the vehicles by type, the organization has grouped them into four average price brackets to make the list more relevant to today’s shoppers, who it found are searching for vehicles based on what they cost ahead of what segment they’re in.

The nonprofit only included vehicles with high scores for reliability, owner satisfaction, test drive results and safety that also come standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, This feature can stop the vehicle on its own if the driver doesn’t react to a potential collision in time.

Nine of the models come from Japanese brands, while the Tesla Model 3 is the lone American car on the list.

Under $25G

Toyota Corolla (range: $19,600 - $25,550): The Corolla sedan is all-new for 2020 and CR praised it for its ride quality, fuel efficiency and standard technology, which includes adaptive radar cruise control.

$25K - $35K:

Subaru Forester (range: $24,495 - $34,595): CR likes the small SUVs practicality -- which includes great visibility, large doors and hip-high seats that make it easy to enter -- and high owner satisfaction.

Subaru Legacy (range: $22,745 - $35,895): The new for 2020 is one of CR’s top scorers in every category, has plenty of room, a “solid” feel, good ride and standard all-wheel-drive.

Toyota Prius/Prius Prime (range: $24,325 - $32,500): Toyota’s venerable hybrid marks its 17th time on the list thanks to a 52 mpg result in fuel economy testing, a 22.5-mile all-electric range for the plug-in Prime model and excellent expected reliability.

$35K - $45K:

Kia Telluride (range: $31,890 - $43,790): The mid-size three-row won over CR with the same blend of design, comfort, features, capability and value that earned it the title of 2020 North American Utility of The Year.

Honda Ridgeline (range: $33,900 - $43,520) Honda’s unibody pickup is the closest thing to a pickup “car” out there, and CR liked its mix of ride, handling and fuel economy, along with its unique in-bed trunk.

Toyota Avalon (range: $35,875 - $43,300): The most reliable large sedan also earned a nearly-perfect score for comfort and comes with either a “lush” V6 or a hybrid powertrain that gets 44 mpg combined.

$45K - $55K

Lexus RX (range: $44,150 - $56,460): The RX is the best-selling luxury SUV for plenty of reasons, according to CR. Its “Goldilocks” size suits a large number of customers, it’s available in two- or three-row versions, its reliability is impeccable, it’s priced right and can be had with a V6 or hybrid powertrain.

Tesla Model 3 (range: $39,990 - $56,990): CR has issues with Tesla’s Autopilot driver-aid feature, which it says needs to do a better job of making sure the driver is paying attention when using it, but says the electric Model 3 is a “thrilling” sedan with a long range between charges.

Toyota Supra (range: $49,990 - $55,250): BMW deserves an assist for this one, because it co-developed the rebooted Supra with Toyota. The sports car’s combination of performance and efficiency made it a winner in its first year on the market.

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Subaru tells dealers it's sorry for 'F---' up

Mon, 13 Jan 2020 08:23:40 -0500

Subaru has apologized to its American dealers for a major mess caused by a colleague half a world away.

The automaker was caught off guard last week when word of an SUV on display at the Singapore Motorshow called the Forester Ultimate Customized Kit Special edition, which can be converted into a vulgar acronym, went viral.

Subaru confirmed to 91�� Autos that the custom car was the work of the local independent distributor and has told its American dealer network that company headquarters had nothing to do with it, a letter leaked to The Drive revealed.

“We apologize for any negative feedback this may have caused. SBR has had the name removed from the car at the Singapore Auto Show. We work very hard to build a strong brand image for this company and the naming of this vehicle in no way reflects the values and standards we hold true. Furthermore, we will always do our best to protect our brand’s integrity,” the letter said.

“It goes without saying that this car will not be available in the United States market,” the letter noted.

Subaru set its 11th straight sales record in the U.S. in 2019 on the back of a safety-focused, pet-friendly outdoorsy marketing strategy that includes the promotion of charitable giving through its Subaru Share the Love Event.

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The Subaru Forester F*#@S edition is an NSFW SUV

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 09:50:01 -0500

What the ...? Subarus may be known for getting a little dirty, but there’s one out there that’s so racy, its name is Not Safe For Work.

The Forester Ultimate Customized Kit Special edition, or F.U.C…well, you get it ... is a customized version of the compact SUV on display at the Singapore Motorshow.

The eyebrow-raising bright blue Subaru features red striping, neon green brake calipers, Enkei wheels, a suede-upholstered dashboard and underglow lighting.

But none of that has gotten as much attention as its name, which has propelled it to viral stardom. Just don’t expect to see one pull up to the local farm stand anytime soon.

FOX NEWS AUTOS TEST: THE 2020 SUBARU ASCENT IS A BIG SUCCESS

A U.S. Subaru spokesman told 91�� Autos that the brand is represented by an independent distributor in Singapore, which means the show car was likely built and named without prior approval from Tokyo HQ.

Oh, for fu… uh ...goodness’ sakes!

Test drive: The 2020 Subaru Ascent is a big success

Wed, 11 Dec 2019 12:45:22 -0500

Subaru has a certified hit on its hands with the strong-selling three-row Ascent SUV, but might not know it.

Have you seen one? Probably, but the Ascent is such a generically styled Subaru that it’s easy to walk by one and think it’s a Forester or an Outback. That may be a good thing.

When Subaru last entered this segment in 2005, it did it with the awkward-looking B9 Tribeca, which never caught on and saw sales tank from after a facelift until it was discontinued in 2014.

This time, Subaru stuck to a sensible shoes approach that makes it easy for growing families to step from one of its other models into an Ascent without batting an eye or turning any heads. And it seems to be working. Subaru is on track to sell more Ascents in 2019 than it did Tribecas in a decade.

The Ascent is very much the oversized Outback that it appears to be. It’s built on the same platform, uses the same 260 hp turbocharged flat-four-cylinder engine and CVT transmission, and feels and smells just like it at starting price of $33,005.

It’s a little on the small size for something meant to keep Subaru owners from defecting to competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer, but you can argue that those are too big. Eight-passenger seating is standard but a tight fight, while the heated second row captain’s chairs available on higher end models turn it into a seven seater, with the top of the line Touring trim level topping out at $46,055.

The wide rear doors and flip-and-slide second row seats make it easy to access the third row, but taller folks won’t want to stay back there for very long, let alone seated three across. However, the entire cabin is well-appointed and has a premium, refined feel throughout.

As with all of Subaru’s family cars, the Ascent comes with the EyeSight electronic driver aid package that includes automatic emergency brakes, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping steering assist. The infotainment system is equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and an 8-inch touchscreen that can be unresponsive at times, but not all the time. It’s a mixed bag.

The Ascent sits a deep snow-friendly 8.7 inches off the ground, just like all of Subaru’s SUVs do, but doesn’t feel tall and tippy. The ride quality is equally mannered on smooth, bumpy and dirty surfaces. You get the impression that Subaru has done this sort of thing before.

The drivetrain is polished and very quiet. The motor is the least powerful in the Ascent’s class, but well suited to its size and delivers a solid 22-23 mpg combined fuel economy, depending on the trim level. The Ascent is deceptively quick thanks to the shiftless CVT, but, while I didn’t get to put it to the test, its 5,000-pound tow rating seems ambitious.

I wouldn’t use the same word to describe the Ascent overall, but it's clear that it is exactly what Subaru needed in the lineup and what its customers expect.

----------

2020 Subaru Ascent

Base price: $33,005

As tested: $43,305

Type 4-door, 7-passenger all-wheel-drive SUV

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-4-cylinder

Power: 260 hp, 277 lb-ft

Transmission: CVT automatic

MPG: 20 city/26 hwy

400,000 Subarus recalled for engine issues

Thu, 24 Oct 2019 12:22:25 -0400

Subaru is recalling over 400,000 vehicles in the U.S. to fix problems with engine computers and debris that can fall into motors.

The first recall covers 466,000 Imprezas from 2017 through 2019, and 2018 and 2019 Crosstreks. Subaru says the engine computer can keep powering the ignition coil after motors are shut off. That could cause a short circuit and blown fuse.

Dealers will update software and replace coils and front exhaust pipes if needed.

The second covers 205,000 Imprezas from 2017 through 2019 and 2018 Crosstreks. The aluminum positive crankcase ventilation valves can fall apart. Debris can enter the engine and cause power loss.

Dealers will replace valves if needed. If a valve has separated and parts can't be found, engines will be replaced.

Both recalls start Dec. 13.

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$25K - $35K:

$35K - $45K:

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