2013 Subaru BRZ Limited vs. Route Napoléon

The beauty of rear-wheel drive hits one of France's most beautiful highways.

This is a story of unlikely scenarios. The first concerns the Subaru BRZ, a rear-wheel-drive sports car from the company famous for making all-wheel-drive station wagons pretending to be SUVs. It’s equally unlikely that this Japanese car finds itself on southern France’s Route Napoléon, one of  Europe’s best driving roads and the main link between swanky Cannes and the base of  the French Alps in Grenoble.

We’re here because this is a road of reclamation. Deposed French emperor Napoléon Bonaparte followed it in 1815 to take back his throne. We want to see if the Japanese can reclaim theirs as kings of the simple, affordable, well-built, great-handling sports coupe. We plan to drive the BRZ hard over the route in pursuit of its bona fides. Hopefully, it won’t end as badly for us as it did for the little guy.

The BRZ (and its Scion FR-S twin) would not exist without Toyota’s cash and additional sales volume. But, by all accounts, every mechanical part—the heart and soul of the car—is Subaru’s work. As we drive the grand old sea-hugging boulevards of Cannes at the outset of our trip, gawking pedestrians holler, “Est-ce une Subaru?” and, “Que bonne!” This confirms either that the styling—which Toyota drew—has hit its mark or that the French love design restraint.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2013-subaru-brz-limited-road-test-review

Long-Term Intro: 2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Hatchback Manual

Months in Fleet: 3 months
Current Mileage: 5256 miles
Average Fuel Economy: 25 mpg
Range: 363 miles
Service: $0
Normal Wear: $0
Repair: $0

Subaru’s latest Impreza is familiar to small-car buyers in one way—it offers standard all-wheel drive—and fresh in another: It actually boasts competitive EPA fuel-economy ratings. Our manual example (what, did you think we were going to order one with the CVT?) is pegged by the EPA at 25 mpg in the city and 33 on the highway, which compares very favorably to the previous manual hatch’s 20/27 ratings. (With the CVT, the 2012 five-door fares even better, returning 27/36 versus 20/26 with the old four-speed automatic.)

So far we’re averaging 25 mpg, which is decent for a Subaru. Some of the newfound efficiency comes courtesy of a new engine; a 148-hp, 145-lb-ft, 2.0-liter version of Subaru’s new FB architecture has replaced the last-gen Impreza’s 2.5-liter. And while the interior is more spacious, Subaru says it managed to trim as much as 165 pounds from the car. It also trimmed power, however, as the new engine is down 22 hp and 25 lb-ft on the 2.5.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2012-subaru-impreza-20i-long-term-test-review

Confirmed: No Scion FR-S Turbo, Subaru BRZ Maybe Eventually

Neither of the jointly developed Subaru-Toyota sports cars will be turbocharged, at least in the near future. Sources we’ve spoken with at both companies have confirmed that for the time being, both the Subaru BRZ and the Scion FR-S will come with only the naturally aspirated, 2.0-liter inline four; it’s rated at 200 hp and 151 lb-ft of torque.

The news gets worse, we’re afraid. Although the door is open to a possible turbocharged BRZ in the future, we’ve been told it’s unlikely we’ll ever see a factory-built Scion FR-S with forced induction in the U.S. It’s possible that Toyota still could offer a turbocharged car in other markets, though, where the car runs with 86 and GT86 badging.

“What the Hell?” You Ask

A big part of the issue here is pricing. Starting at $24,930 with a manual transmission ($26,030 with an automatic) and no factory options available, the FR-S should be a decent seller. Were Scion to add a turbocharger or any other kit, shoppers would be looking at a price tag much closer to $30,000. That’s when people start sentences with “Well, for that much money, I could just get a…” and Scion loses sales. Subaru has a bit more flexibility in pricing because, versus Scion, the brand isn’t so downmarket and has better-off customers. Even still, a turbo version of the BRZ isn’t a guarantee. A British car magazine recently quoted a Subaru exec as saying the company will never sell a turbocharged BRZ. We haven’t been able to confirm whether this was an accurate quote, but even if “never” is an exaggeration, it’s a grim situation.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/confirmed-no-scion-fr-s-turbo-subaru-brz-maybe-eventually/

Subaru Goes Live With New iPad® Apps

CHERRY HILL, N.J., April 12, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. announced the release of Dynamic Brochure iPad® apps for the 2012 Subaru Impreza, Impreza WRX/STI, Outback, Legacy and Forester. Fun and interactive consumer tools, the apps showcase the confidence and capabilities of these models.


The iPad® apps feature new, fully photographic exterior and interior 360-degree views that allow viewers to experiment with paint colors and interior trims. The apps also include interactive feature demos, videos and comprehensive specifications.

The all-new Subaru Impreza 4-Door, 5-Door and Impreza Sport, rally-bred Impreza WRX/STI, rugged Outback, intelligent Legacy and the versatile Forester, all come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a balanced SUBARU BOXER® engine for exceptional handling and capability to match their accommodating interior versatility and comfort.  Users can see, hear and explore the Subaru models and the technology right from the interactive iPad® apps.

The 2012 Subaru model iPad® apps build on the success of the industry-leading Dynamic Brochure program, which Subaru debuted in 2011, to give audiences more content and more engaging choices for information, comparison and sharing. The program also supports Subaru commitment to environmentally-friendly practices; the digital brochure platform helps to reduce paper usage, energy consumption, inks, and production waste.

"Subaru is excited to roll out the next generation of our leading-edge, environmentally-friendly Subaru model iPad® apps for 2012. These model app launches will be followed closely by the all-new Subaru Life Book featuring our full line of vehicles in a single app," said Sondra Shiffer, brochures manager, Subaru of America, Inc.

These iPad® apps can be downloaded for free at:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/subaru-of-america/id390914873

Read More: http://media.subaru.com/index.php?s=43&item=314

Chicago Used Subaru

Subaru Prices 2013 BRZ Coupe From $26,245 With Six-Speed Manual [New York Auto Show]

Subaru has finally revealed pricing for the rear-wheel-drive 2013 BRZ: The sporty coupe will start at $26,245 for the entry-level Premium model with a six-speed manual transmission. The BRZ’s price of entry is slightly higher than that of its near-twin, the 2013 Scion FR-S, which starts at $24,930. Of course, any dealer markups could push the BRZ’s actual price even higher, given that Subaru has allocated a relatively small number of cars for the U.S. market.

The Subaru’s price premium over the Scion is more than made up for by the BRZ’s higher level of standard content. Touch-screen navigation and HID headlights are two key features absent from the FR-S’s list of standard equipment; in fact, both are missing from that car’s options sheet, as well. The even-fancier BRZ Limited starts at $28,245 and adds leather and Alcantara seating surfaces, heated seats, dual-zone climate control, fog lights, keyless access with push-button start, and a rear spoiler. Just like the FR-S, a six-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is available; it will set you back $1100 on both the Premium and the Limited.

We suggest that any enthusiast with roughly $26K burning a hole in his or her pocket strongly consider plunking that sum down on a BRZ—the car is that good. Even if you don’t snag one of the limited number of BRZs in time, there’s always the Scion FR-S.

Read More: http://blog.caranddriver.com/subaru-prices-2013-brz-coupe-from-26245-with-six-speed-manual-new-york-auto-show/

2012 NY auto show: 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek adds a rugged model to the Impreza line

Subaru is set to unveil a new addition to its line up, the 2013 XV Crosstrek, at the upcoming New York International Auto Show. This new "crossover" takes the role previously filled by the last-generation Impreza Outback Sport, providing a more rugged interpretation of the Impreza hatchback.

Like other models in the current Impreza lineup, the XV will use a 148-hp, 2.0-liter version of Subaru's "boxer" four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission. We found the latter combination to be quite fuel efficient, especially for an all-wheel-drive car. Compared to the current Impreza, the XV is jacked up to provide 8.7 inches of ground clearance--more than most SUVs.

Subaru estimates the Crosstrek will deliver 25 mpg city, 33 mpg highway, compared against 27/36 for the Impreza hatchback. The 15.9-gallon fuel tank in the Subaru XV Crosstrek is 1.4 gallons greater than the Impreza models.

Subaru will offer two trim lines: Premium and Limited. Standard features in the Premium include a tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio and Bluetooth controls; multi-function display with fuel economy information; security system with engine immobilizer; and outside temperature gauge.

The Limited adds leather-trimmed interior, steering wheel, and shift handle as well as a 4.3-inch display screen to support the standard backup camera and HD Radio. The Limited also includes heated front seats and exterior mirrors and a wiper de-icer, features that are optional on the Premium. A power moon roof and 6.1-inch navigation system with text messaging, XM radio, and iTunes tagging are optional on both trims.

The Impreza has scored well in our tests, impressing us enough for it to be named the 2012 Small Car Top Pick. We look forward to seeing how this taller, tougher-looking version does in our tests. The new XV Crosstrek hits dealerships this fall.

—Liza Barth

Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2012/03/2012-ny-auto-show-2013-subaru-xv-crosstrek-adds-a-rugged-model-to-the-impreza-line.html

Subaru Debuts New EyeSight™ System

- Stereo Camera Based Driver Assist System

- Pre-Collision Braking

- System Capable of Pedestrian Detection

- Lane Departure and Sway Warning

- Adaptive Cruise Control

- Optional in 2013 Legacy and Outback

CHERRY HILL, N.J., March 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. has announced the debut of its EyeSight™ driver assistance system. The suite of safety and driver assist technologies will debut at the New York International Auto Show on 2013 Legacy and Outback models. EyeSight will subsequently appear on other products in the Subaru line-up. EyeSight integrates adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and vehicle lane departure warning. The new technology, which can also detect obstacles in front of a parked car and limit potential damage in an impact, will become available later this year.

Combining safety and convenience features, the Subaru EyeSight system will be one of the most affordable of such technologies available in the United States market. EyeSight uses two charge-coupled device (CCD) cameras developed by Subaru. EyeSight is mounted inside the car on the upper edge of the windshield, thus reducing the potential for damage that could occur in bumper-mounted systems, such as radar. The EyeSight system processes stereo images to identify the vehicles traveling in front, as well as obstacles, traffic lanes and other items. The video information is relayed to the EyeSight computer, which is also networked with the car's braking system and electronic throttle control. Below speeds of approximately 19mph, EyeSight is capable of detecting pedestrians in the vehicle's path and can activate in order to mitigate or even avoid the collision. Under certain circumstances, Eyesight is able to bring the car to a complete stop, thus avoiding a collision.


Pre-Collision Braking Control and Collision Mitigation

At relative speeds under approximately 19 mph, EyeSight's Pre-Collision Braking System can detect obstacles in the car's path and, if the driver has not applied the brakes in time, the system can do so to slow the vehicle or bring it to a full stop to help avoid the potential collision. Pre-Collision Braking is always on in the background to act like a second set of eyes for the driver. It can also be turned off temporarily for off-road or rough road travel.

At relative speeds above approximately 19 mph, EyeSight can apply the brakes when an object is detected, and will attempt to brake if the driver takes no evasive action, or does not brake appropriately. In this way it will mitigate potential damage from a collision. The system, which can recognize programmed objects such as vehicles, motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians, can help mitigate collision damage.

Read More: http://media.subaru.com/index.php?s=43&item=304

Top Pick video: 2012 Subaru Impreza

For several years, our Top Pick small car has been the Hyundai Elantra. Its latest generation combines impressive fuel economy with a practical interior and a pleasant driving experience—all at a value price. But the redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza presented a true challenge for this honored distinction. (Read about the 2012 Top Picks.)

On paper, the Impreza has its work cut out for it. Following tradition, the revamped Impreza comes with standard all-wheel-drive, which cuts into acceleration and fuel economy. Unlike typical redesigns that add curb weight and horsepower, this new Impreza weighs less and has a smaller, less powerful engine. But as a package, it works well.

At 27 mpg, the Impreza can’t match the 29 mpg overall of the Elantra, but it does have impressive fuel economy for all-wheel-drive. Acceleration times remain decent and are on par with the previous Impreza. What’s more, this Impreza has a ride that rivals some luxury sedans, with generous compliance and isolation. The interior is very roomy, with a spacious back seat, and controls are about as simple as they get. Finally, visibility is refreshingly good for a modern sedan; here the Impreza’s upright styling gives an advantage over the more swoopy Elantra’s smaller greenhouse.

But the Impreza isn’t perfect. Road noise can get annoying—a complaint we also have with the Elantra. The Subaru’s continuously variable transmission promotes engine noise and has excessive, unwanted engine braking when descending hills.

Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2012/02/top-pick-video-2012-subaru-impreza.html

2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0 Hatchback CVT

Trading performance for EPA-rated efficiency.

In the sea of economy cars, the 2012 Subaru Impreza swims among some fairly appetizing competition. The new Impreza’s styling alone helps it better stand out among big fish—such as the Ford Focus, the Volkswagen Golf, and the Honda Civic—than did its predecessor. But the previous car’s biggest handicap against its competition wasn’t its looks, but fuel economy; to that end, Subie has swapped the old four-speed automatic transmission for a more-efficient continuously variable gearbox.

Exterior Attitude, Interior Blahs

But first, back to the styling. The new Impreza fits right in at Subaru showrooms with its scaled-down Legacy looks. The sheetmetal even has a little bit of an attitude, although the same cannot be said for the interior, even if it is ergo-friendly. Inside, the materials are average and the overall design is stark and lacks any sort of personality. That’s a shame, really, because we love sitting in the comfy bucket seats, while back-seat passengers will appreciate the generous amounts of leg- and headroom. They won’t enjoy the copious wind and road noise. Compared to the previous car, overall passenger volume for the five-door increases by nearly three cubic feet; cargo volume (rear seats folded) gains an impressive eight cubes for a total of 52.4. Have we mentioned lately how much we love the versatility of wagons and hatchbacks?

Out with the 2.5-liter, In with the 2.0

The engine compartment of the 2012 Impreza houses a new flat-four of smaller displacement than the outgoing car’s. Down by 0.5 liter to 2.0, it’s weaker than the old engine by 22 hp and 25 lb-ft of torque, for totals of 148 hp and 145 lb-ft. Subaru claims that the new car’s slight weight reduction offsets any performance penalty from the lower-output motor. But as we discovered with a manual-equipped Impreza sedan we tested, that’s not quite the case—it was a second slower to 60 mph than the previous stick-shifted Impreza. While we don’t have test figures for the previous Impreza 2.5 with its four-speed automatic, our 2.0-liter hatchback CVT test car took a leisurely nine seconds flat to hit 60 mph and 17 seconds to cover the quarter-mile at 83 mph. The new 2.0-liter with the CVT is now rated at a much-improved 27 mpg city and 36 highway, up from the 20/26 assigned to the 2.5-liter car with the four-speed auto. Impressive on paper, but we saw just 22 mpg overall during our 600-mile test.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2012-subaru-impreza-20-cvt-hatchback-test-reviews

Subaru Impreza Wins 2012 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award for Best Compact Car

CHICAGO, Feb. 8, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. was awarded the 2012 MotorWeek Drivers' Choice Award for Best Compact Car at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show.

The award comes on the heels of strong sales results from Subaru.  The brand set a sales record in 2011 and has started 2012 with sales up 21% over the previous year.

"It is an honor to receive the award for best compact car from MotorWeek," Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. "We are very excited about the all-new Impreza and we feel it is a game-changer for Subaru in the compact segment. In fact, Impreza sales in January were up 175-percent. We are pleased to bring our customers a car that packages safety, fun and function."

All new for 2012, the Subaru Impreza is equipped as standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Powered by a 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or the enhanced, second-generation Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission). The 2012 Impreza offers the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in America, with EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway for models with the CVT.

"With its 2012 re-design, we think the Subaru Impreza is primed for prime time," said John Davis, MotorWeek host.  "No other compact comes close to the Impreza's mix of standard all-wheel-drive, upscale interior, and near bargain pricing. Add in a fun-to-drive steering feel, plus a big jump in fuel economy, and you've got a four-season winner."

Read More: http://media.subaru.com/index.php?s=43&item=296

The Beach

2012 Detroit auto show video: 2013 Subaru BRZ

Subaru has a long and rich history of enthusiast cars through their rally racing heritage. But the Subaru BRZ sports coupe goes in a different direction.

Instead of being a hopped-up version of one of Subaru’s grocery-getting all-wheel-drive sedans or hatches, the BRZ is a purpose-built sports car. This low-slung, rear-wheel-drive coupe is light weight, with a low center of gravity from the flat-four engine being set down low in the chassis. Placing that engine back towards the cabin helps weight distribution, but that mount position eliminates the possibility of all-wheel drive. With no turbo version available (at least for now), the BRZ isn’t about raw power numbers, but rather pure handling and agility.

But how does this all work on the road? We don’t know yet. We don’t know how well the electric steering transmits road feel, if the gear ratios are right for that engine, or if the ride is stiff or typical-Subaru-compliant. Nor do we know if the Scion doppelganger, the FR-S, is tuned better. (Subaru did most of the development on the car, but Toyota tuned their version differently.)

We can’t wait to find out. Soon. The BRZ is a logical next step for the Miata owner who needs something with some more room inside, but doesn’t want to spend a mint. And that’s a good thing for an enthusiast, especially now that the lively Mazda RX-8 is gone.



Read More: http://news.consumerreports.org/cars/2012/01/2012-detroit-auto-show-video-2013-subaru-brz.html