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1/5/15 December sales total 49,923 The Outback and Legacy continue to be in tight supply, especially Limited and Eyesight models. The 2015 Crosstrek and Impreza are now arriving, and with their improved ride (finally), upgraded audio systems (finally), and standard rear view camera (and finally), sales should increase sharply over 2014 models. Forester continues to be Subaru's top seller, and will (hopefully) benefit from an 2016 model later this winter/spring with an upgraded audio. December 2014 sales by model Outback 14,772, up 24% over 30172 12/13 Forester 15,163, up 15% over 13229 12/13 Legacy 5457, up 86% over 2939 12/13 Crosstrek 5482, down 1% from 5525 12/13 Impreza 5808, up 17% over 4949 12/13 WRX, STI 2816, up 68% over 1680 12/13 BRZ 416, down 41% from 705 12/13 Tribeca 9, down 94% from 143 12/14 2014 total sales 513,693 which is a new record, and up 21% over 424,683 2013 total. Subaru's total U.S market is now 3.1%. It was 1.4% in 2008. December 2014 was the 37th consecutive month of growth and the 2014 year was the 7th consecutive year of growth Subarus goal for 2015 is a very conservative 540,000 cars. Total 2014 US Subaru sales by model Outback 138,790 in 2014, up 18% over 118,049 2013 Forester 159,953 in 2014, up 29% over 123,592 2013 Legacy 52,270 in 2014, up 24% over 42,291 2013 Crosstrek 70,956 in 2014, up 325 over 53,741 2013 Impreza 57, 996 in 2014, down 1% from 58,856 in 2013 WRX, STI 25,492 in 2014, up 42% over 17,969 2013 BRZ 7504 in 2014, down 13% from 8587 2013 Tribeca 732 in 2014, down 54% from 1,598 2013 1/2/15 last day for Share the Love buy a car today, its the last day to pick from 5 charities for Subaru to donate $250 to. Choices are ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels and the National Park Foundation plus one local charity. It ran from 11/20/14 to 1/2/15. Subaru will donate $250 for each car sold to the buyer's choice from a group of 5 charities, 4 chosen by Subaru and 1 charity chosen by the local dealer. The 4 charities selected by Subaru are ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels and the National Park Foundation. These groups were also in last year's Share the Love #6 12/29 2014 sales total is expected to pass 500,000 as people continue to discover that Subaru is a great car. Its not an overnight success though, Subaru has been on this growth path for the past 7 years, but even before that Subaru was putting out quality all wheel drive cars. It was just mostly a NW, NE, and greater Rocky Mountain area semi-secret ignored in drier and warmer climates from a press release Subaru of America, Inc. has reached a significant milestone in its history, by retailing 500,000 vehicles in a single calendar year. The milestone caps a remarkable seven year growth period for the brand in the U.S. in which the company has grown from 187,699 vehicle sales in 2008 to what will total over 500,000 sales in 2014, once the sales year closes on January 2 The growth in Subaru sales can be attributed to a combination of improved vehicle offerings, targeted and award-winning marketing and an improved retailer body. The current generation of Subaru vehicles grew in size compared to the previous generation in order to better suit the needs of the American buyer while also delivering improved interiors, technology and safety features such as the award-wining Eyesight system. Furthermore, the company's retail outlets have embraced process and amenity improvements as sales volume increased, while the total number of outlets has remained steady. All of the company's current models have contributed to its sales success; the current Impreza (four and five-door) is enjoying its best-ever generation and the Outback and the Forester mid-size CUV now retail 300,000 units per year, combined. The new small CUV entrant, XV Crosstrek, has also added over 60,000 sales to the year-total, while the all-new Legacy sedan is enjoying its best sales ever; more than doubling its year-over-year monthly sales since the launch of the 2015 model. On the performance side, sales of the company's sporty models, the WRX and STI, are at their highest levels ever following the debut of the all-new 2015 models. Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. said; "We are delighted to have reached this historic milestone and our results show we are delivering vehicles that people want to buy. That we have grown so steeply and also so steadily over the last seven years is a testament to our products and to the commitment of our retailers who have had to manage this increase in capacity. There is a positive air around our business and we have no plans to stop our growth; we expect 2015 to also be another record year for Subaru." 12/14 2015 Impreza brochures available. 20pgs... The 15 Impreza gets some good upgrades, including a quieter ride and a standard rear view camera with a screen big enough to be functional on all models. Eyesight safety system is now available on Limited and Sport Limited. And prices are still reasonable. Impreza specs and details 12/5 $90,000,000 lottery winner plans to buy a Subaru Forester! Lisa and Everett Quam of Washington State won $90m in a Powerball lottery. This is the first ever Powerball winner in Wa After taxes, they will collect $56.8m lump sum or take monthly payments. Both are long time Boeing employees and will leave their jobs. Lisa Quam has picked out a new car, a Subaru Forester! from the Seattle Times 12/4 more on the Takata front airbag recall Subaru is expanding the recall of some 2003-2005 Legacy, Outback, and Baja, and some 2004-2005 Impreza, WRX, and STI that have been registered in the high humidity states or areas of Florida and nearby counties in Georgia, and coastal areas of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, and Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, US Virgin Island. Previously the recall only included Florida, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and US Virgin Islands. 12/3 November 2014 sales- #2 top sales ever with 45,273 sales for the month- that's a November record and the 2nd best month ever behind #1 August 2014s 50,246 Not that many years ago, Subaru was selling a total of 80,000 cars a year, now that's barely a 2 month quota. November 14 was the best month ever for both Outback and Forester sales, and Outback reclaims its position as Subaru's flagship and best seller Outback 14,238 for 11/14, up 5276 over 8852 sold 11/13 Forester 13,879 for 11/14, up 469 from 13410 sold 11/13 Crosstrek 5799 for 11/14, up 488 over 5311 11/13 Legacy 5733 for 11/14, up 2822 over 1911 sold 11/13 Impreza 2589 for 11/14, down 1178 from 3767 11/13 as the model year changes and 14s are cleared out and the 15s start to arrive WRX/STI 2707 for 11/14, up 1200 over 1507 sold 11/13 BRZ 408 sold 11/14, down 348 from 756 sold 11/13 Tribeca 30 sold 11/14, down 77 from 107 sold 11/13, but who knew there were even 30 cars still available on lots. A quick national search today shows only 2 left, so Subaru must have some left in a back lot at the plant in Indiana 11/20 advertising- Subaru 7th Share the Love from 11/20/14 to 1/2/15 Subaru will donate $250 for each car sold to the buyer's choice from a group of 5 charities, 4 chosen by Subaru and 1 charity chosen by the local dealer. The 4 charities selected by Subaru are ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels and the National Park Foundation. These groups were also in last year's Share the Love #6 The total amount donated this year will be $15,000,000. This year, there are bumper stickers for ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels and the National Park Foundation, blue rubber Share the Love bracelets, and free keyrings with the names of the charities and the Share The Love logo on the sides of 3 rotating cubes. Dealers have envelopes that can be sent in with the buyer choice, or go to www.Subaru.com/share photos of the bumper stickers and keyrings 11/19/15 2015 Crosstrek prices, specs, features announced. Cars expected starting late December Crosstrek webpage with prices, options, specs Destination increased $25 to $850 ($1000 to Ak). Prices including destination 2.0i $22,445 (new model for 2015) Premium, manual trans $23,145 (2014 was $22,820) Premium CVT $24,145 (2014 was $23,820) Limited $25,645 (2014 was $25,320) Hybrid $26,845 (2014 was $26,820) Hybrid Touring $30,145 (2014 was $30,120) Subaru listens and improves the Crosstrek experience making the ride smoother and quieter, new quick ratio steering makes the handling more responsive, new upgraded larger audio ('infotainment') HD LCD 6.2" or 7" screens make the back-up camera much more effective than the previous small grainy screens new upgraded audio ('infotainment') systems with significantly improved cell phone pairing and contact download functions. Smartphone text message capable. Smartphone apps include Subaru Starlink, Aha, Pandora, iHeart radio. 2015 Crosstrek Models 2.0i. Manual transmission only. This is the new lower priced base model that doesn't have the All Weather Package. Premium CVT Special Edition, package #15. Sunrise Yellow with black cloth only. No price, model details, features or release dates announced. Premium, manual or CVT Limited CVT Hybrid CVT Hybrid Touring CVT 11/16 2015 Imprezas arriving at dealers. The new audio screens really fit the dash, and yes the car is quieter 11/11 new 2015 Impreza rates announced 2.90% 24-36-48-60-63-72 mos. The cars are expected soon. all NW area finance rates 11/5 December issue of Consumer Reports is worth picking up It covers and reviews the usual range of items, from electronics, TVs, cameras, compuwear, stoves and cooktops, to the effects of drinking coffee and wine, the best outlet stores, winter tires, and of course cars cars cars and cars. I was hoping it would include cell phones (I'm shopping for one) but they said that review is coming in February 2015. In this issue, they go over all the reliability of car brands as well as many individual models. The top overall brands for reliability continue to be Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, with Subaru 7th on the list, partly dragged lower by the BRZ/FR-S's poor showing. The top small SUV for reliability is the Mitsubishi Outlander, with Forester, Crosstrek, Mazda CX5, and Rav4 following. Outback - in a brief review of the 2015 model, the last paragraph says '... in addition to being a standout value, the Outback tops our ratings among wagons and midsized five passenger SUVs...' Hyundai Genesis, in a brief review, comparing it to more expensive luxury brands, the last paragraph says '...by choosing the Genesis the only thing you give up is the fancy badge.' Legacy- in a "do it all family sedan" review comparing the Camry, Accord, Malibu, Sonata, Legacy, and Chrysler 200, the Legacy comes out on top with the highest score. This is the kind of press Subaru is striving for as it hopes to make, for the first time, the Legacy an equal of the top selling family sedans. You can (and its a good idea if you're car shopping) read all the reviews in the December issue. 11/4 November finance rates announced, NW area 2015 Outback, Legacy, BRZ dropped to 1.49% x48 mos, 1.90%x 6-72 mos 2015 Foresters stays at .90%x48 and 2.90%x60-72 mos 2015 RX and STI stay at 2.90% 2014 Crosstrek drops to 1.49% x48 mos, 1.90%x 6-72 mos 11/3 October 2014 sales results- 43,012 YTD is 418,497 and with two months to go, Subaru is on track to break the 500,000 car mark. 2013s total was 424,683 for the year and Subaru expects to pass that record in early November. Outback is big gainer for the month, up 8,122 cars from 10/13. All Outbacks, and especially those with Eyesight, are more in demand than before and will soon pass the Forester as Subaru's top selling vehicle. Subaru has to be pleased with Legacy sales of 6362 for the month. And now with all the good press its finally poised to step out from the shadow of the Outback and Forester. Crosstrek is holding its own but in the fierce small crossover market, it needs the coming update to maintain its edge. The same is true of the Impreza line in general, the small car market is crowded and Subaru stands out but must keep getting updates to avoid being pushed aside by the small Mazda, Toyota, Ford, Honda, Kia sedans and hatchbacks For October 2014 Forester 12,971 cars, up 390 over 12,581 10/13 Outback 12,624 cars, up 8,122 over 4502 10/13 Legacy 6.362, up 3,090 over 3,272 10/13 Crosstrek 5,372, up 486 over 4886 10/13 Impreza 3,154 down 413 from 3,567 10/13 WRX, STI 2,085 up 729 over 1,356 10/13 BRZ 435, down 345 from 780 10/13 Tribeca 9 cars, down 92 from 101 10/13 11/2 the Subaru Share The Love Event 2014 will be November 20, 2014 to January 2, 2015
This is the 7th Share the Love Event. For each new vehicle purchased Subaru will donate $250 to the buyer's choice of charity. This year there are 5 charities for the buyer to choose from, 4 selected by Subaru and 1 by the dealer where the car was purchased. Subaru has announced they will donate $15,000,000 this year to be divided among the charities. In 2013 it was $10,000,000 and $5,000,000 in 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008 The charities chosen by Subaru this year are ASPCA, Make-A-Wish, National Park Foundation and Meals on Wheels. Then there will be one more charity selected by the dealer on the list for the buyer to pick from. 10/31 roll clocks back Saturday night/Sunday morning 11/1-2
10/24 2015 Crosstrek info announced
This is early teaser info without prices, specs, or a complete list of features, but all that is expected soon, before orders are accepted starting on November 17th The cars are expected late December. 2014 orders close 10/27, though only a few models are still available to order There's no mention of the new front grill, headlights or sound deadening windshield like the 2015 Impreza is getting 2015 Crosstrek Models 2.0i- this is a new model for 2015- a lower priced base model without the All Weather Package. Few details have been released on what features it does have, but as the other models get fancier, and more expensive, with Eyesight and other upgrades, Subaru is also watching the lower end of the market. Premium, manual or CVT Limited CVT Hybrid CVT Hybrid Touring CVT all models have rear view back-up camera Limited gets turn signals in the outside mirrors Limited, Hybrid, and Hybrid Touring get standard Welcome Lighting Eyesight is now available, optional on 2.0i Premium and Limited, and Hybrid Touring. Includes steering responsive fog lights Limited models get optional pushbutton start (standard on Hybrids). Limiteds get turns signals in the outside mirrors (standard on Hybrids) Upgraded audio systems 2.0i, 2.0i Premium, Hybrid- 6.2" high resolution touch-screen, 4 speakers in the 2.0i, 6 speakers in the Premium one USB, AM/FM/HD, CD, iphone/android apps include Subaru Starlink, Aha, Pandora, iHeart radio... Premium with optional eyesight, Limited, and Hybrid Touring. 7" high resolution multi touch-screen, 6 speakers, AM/FM/HD/XM, CD, two USBs, 6 speakers, iphone/android apps include Subaru Starlink, Aha, Pandora, iHeart radio.. 10/17 2014 Crosstrek orders close 10/27 until then, orders will still be accepted for Premium manual transmission in gray, Premium CVT models, all colors with standard package #01 or Moonroof package #04 and Limited package, all models and colors 10/15- Once a year, the Seattle Car Show. Test drive a car with Eyesight. Its October 15-19.
This is a great opportunity to test drive an Outback, Legacy, or Forester with Eyesight, popular cars that are mostly sold out at the dealer so there's rarely one available to test drive. If you haven't driven one yet, this is your chance, and you don't even have to visit a car lot. Visit the Subaru display to see all the current models- Outback, Legacy, Forester, Crosstrek, BRZ, and Impreza. Fill in your info at the kiosk and get a coupon emailed for $250 off a new Subaru you purchase within 90 days. Its good on all the models except WRX and STI (sorry). See the coupon for other usual details. Plus check out all the new makes and models, and some cool old ones from the Lemay Museum in Tacoma. Century Link Field Event Center, Seattle, Wed 10/15 - Sun 10/19. Hours Wed/Thurs 1-8:30, Fri 1-9, Sat 10-9, Sun 10-5  10/13 Seattle Auto Show is 10/15-19 at Century Link Field Event Center Wed/Thurs 1-8:30, fri 1-9, Sat 10-9, Sun 10-5 10/11- Tribeca. the computer shows only 7 new Tribecas are still available nationally.
This is the slow ending to a car that Subaru had great hopes for but it never found a market It was always a fine 5 +2 passenger, it was never a 7 passenger as advertised. The front end was polarizing but had its fans. The 3.0L engine was underpowered and liked premium gas but was dependable and durable. All in all, it was a good car that never found a market, like the Baja, the XT-6, the Brat, the SVX, the front wheel drive Legacy, and pretty much everything Subaru made in the late 60-early 70s. Years from now, the Tribeca will be a car writers will look at it as a good subject for a Once Upon a Time article.... 10/9 2015 Impreza price and features released, and orders are available Many good upgrades and improvements including a quieter ride. Eyesight with steering responsive fog lights, and keyless access/pushbutton start, are now available for the first time on the Impreza- on the 2.0i Limited 4 door and Sport Limited 5 door models. All models get a back-up camera that display in the new, large audio screens. All models get one touch lane change turn signals- just tap them up or down for 3 blinks All models get quick ratio electric power steering for improved handling and steering response. All models get upgraded audio-infotainment systems with 6.2" or 7" touchscreens, Starlink etc Sport models and 2.0i Limited models get turn signals in the outside mirrors. All models get redesigned front end- headlights, grill etc similar to the new Outback and Legacy. The front bumpers have small chrome accents Manual transmission are still available in the base 2.0i 4 door and 5 door and Sport Premium 5 door models Prices: minor price increases 2.0i base models +$300 Premium 4 door and 5 door models now have All Weather Pkg standard, at an increase on $200 over the 14 Premium with optional All Weather Pkg Limited models are only up $100, which is a bargain for the integrated turn signals and top of the line 7" audio screen Sport Premiums and up $200 and Limited up $100 2015 Impreza specs and options. 10/4/14 STI Launch Edition availability an inventory search shows only one new, unsold Launch Edition is available- its in New England. 10/4 Subaru addresses some late accessories 2015 Outback and Legacy- no hood protector will be available due to the design of the front nose and hood. 2015 Outback and Legacy- optional body side moldings. There have been issues with the availability of side moldings, whether factory/port or dealer installed, and Subaru has announced this clarification Currently available early October to either order or have dealer installed: carbide gray, black, white, twilight blue, and wilderness green The remaining 4 colors are expected to be available in early November to order or have dealer installed: lapis blue, tungsten, venetian red, and ice silver 2015 Forester front hood protector is being developed. No release date. 10/3 2014 Crosstrek orders start closing. The 2014 Crosstrek special order system starts closing Monday 10/6 4pm EST, after which certain models and colors will no longer be available to special order. Models no longer available to order after Monday 10/6 will be Crosstrek Premium, manual trans,, model code ERA, colors black and red will be shut off Crosstrek Premium with navigation, model code ERB #10. All Hybrid and Hybrid Touring, model codes ERH, ERI Models that will still be available to order for a short period of time are Premium, manual trans, all colors except black and red Premium CVT models except with Pkg #10 navigation All Limiteds. 10/2 who gets tickets this article about the top ticketed cars by insurance.com is making the rounds. I can understand the WRX being on the list, its a fast car that looks fast and wants to be driven fast. And the #3 car, Scion FRS/Subaru BRZ is a driver's car even though not fast like the WRX. But the Tribeca is #4 on the list, and that says something about the either drivers or the cops. Also on the list are cars like the Mazda 2, Saturan Aura, and Scion xA. These just aren't cars one would expect to be stopped for speeding so I wonder what its for. On the list at #7 is the Mercury Topaz. Does anyone remember the Ford Tempo/Mercury Topaz twins? Every rental fleet had them, and while there was a 6 cylinder, and also an all wheel drive version (yes, really), none of them were zippy cars or eye catching. So the tickets must be for driving a car with parts falling off or missing head/tail lights etc or just driving a car that shouldn't be driven anymore. The Prius C is on the list at #20. Its probably stopped for going 50mph in the left lane (that's a joke). Disclaimer- I drive an Outback and was stopped. Here's the list with % of drivers who have been ticketed #1 Subaru WRX with 33.6% of drivers saying they had be tickets #2 Pontiac GTO 32.7% #3 Scion FRS, Subaru BRZ 32.6% #4 Toyota Supra 30.8% #5 Subaru Tribeca 29.7% #6 VW Rabbit 29.6% #7 Mercury Topaz 28.5% #8 Scion tC 28.8% , #9 Toyota FJ Cruiser 28.4%, #10 Mazda2 28.1%, #11 Hyundai Veloster 28.1%, #12 VW GTI 28.1%, #13 Suzuki Reno 28.1%, #14 Scion xA 27.8%, #15 Pontiac G8 27.7%, #16 Mini Countryman S 27.5%, #17 Mitsubishi GT 3000 #27.4%, #18 Saturn Aura 27.1%, #19 Infiniti QX56/QX80 27.1%, #20 Toyota Prius C 27.0% 10/1 September sales total 41517 car which is a whopping 9762 cars, 31%, over September 2013's 31753 total The redesigned Legacy is surging ahead with its best month ever, up 118% over September 2013 sales. Of course, there is a lot of room for the Subaru sedan to grow. The YTD total through September is 375,484, up 20% over 313,407 Sept YTD 2013. Subaru's goal of breaking 500,000 cars is in reach if sales for October, November and December are at least 40,000 cars each The supply of Outback and Legacy with eyesight is tight with most cars sold before they even arrive, and that's true of the WRX and STI, there are few to be found on lots. Outback 11,315 cars, which is up 39%, 3,172 cars over 8143 9/13 Forester 12,584 cars, which is up 18%, 1,964 cars over 10.620 9/13 Crosstrek 5,691 cars which is 61%, 2,155 cars over 3,526 9/13 Impreza 4,040 cars which is down 13%, 582 cars less than 4,622 9/13 Legacy 6,198 cars which is up 118%, 3,351 cars, over 2,847 9/13 WRX, STI 1,170 cars which is 3 cars more than 1,167 9/13 BRZ 506 cars, which is down 28%, 198 cars less than 704 9/13 Tribeca 13 cars, which is dwindling to almost nothing, down 103 cars, 89%, less than 116 cars 9/13 9/26 2015 Impreza upgrades announced, finally... more information and pricing to follow, hopefully soon, and also Crosstrek information Looks like the Impreza line will mostly remain the same, with 2.0i 4 and 5 door models, manual or CVT 2.0i Premium 4 and 5 door models, CVT is now standard 2.0i Limited 4 and 5 door models, CVT Sport Premium 5 door, manual or CVT Sport Limited 5 door, CVT is standard the big news: Eyesight with steering responsive fog lights is now optional on 2.0i Limited and Sport Limited models. Of note is that the Limited models did not get a power driver's seat which was hoped for since its now in the WRX Limited. Gone: manual transmission 2.0i Premium dropped. All 2.0i Premium models are now CVT. The Sport Premium is still available though with a manual transmission. 2.0i and 2.0i Premium models now have rear view back-up camera, so its now standard on all models. 2.0i Premium models now get standard All Weather Package (heated seats, defrosting outside mirrors, front wiper deicers) 2.0i models now have cruise control, so all models now have cruise all models get new one touch, 3 blink, lane changer turn signals all models get quicker ratio power steering for improved steering response all models get new front bumper, front grill, and front headlights similar to the 2015 Legacy's all models are quieter with get more sound deadening materials, and thicker side windows for less wind noise 4 door models get a new low profile trunk spoiler 2.0i Limited, Sport Premium and Sport Limited models now have turn signals in the outside mirrors. 2.0i Limited and Sport Limiteds models get welcome lighting and upgraded instrument panel all models get new audio systems, these are similar to the 2015 Outback/Legacy > 2.01 base and Premium models get a 6.2" touch screen AM/FM/HD radio, single CD player, with Subaru Starlink, Aha, Pandora, and iHeart apps (req smartphone), handsfree cell phone bluetooth, wireless audio streaming, USB and aux jack. Base models have 4 speakers, Premiums have 6 speakers > Limited models add a voice activated 7" multi-touch screen. 6 speakers, with XM satellite radio (by subscription), text messaging (requires a text capable phone), 2 USB ports and aux jack. > optional Navigation and all new for Impreza Keyless access with pushbutton start is available on 2.0i Limited 4 door and Sport Limited models add NavWeather and NavTraffic (by subscription), maintenance schedules and more all info subject to change and updating 9/4 Outbacks and Legacy with optional Eyesight starting to arrive at dealers 9/3 August is the start of Subaru's bigger months, with August 2014 sales over 50,000 for the first time ever. Thats a new record for SoA. Last August (2013) was the first time Subaru ever more than 40,000 in a month. August sales total 50,246, 9185 more cars than 41061 August 2013 YTD 333,968, an increase of 52316 car over 281,652 YTD 2013 Subaru dealers are busy busy busy... two more new records is that 21 Subaru dealers sold 200 or more cars in August 2014, and 178 sold 100 or more for the month. Record sales totals for Forester, Crosstrek, and Legacy. And with the new Outback arriving in greater numbers, the Outback and Legacy with Eyesight finally arriving, expect sales numbers to climb August sales by model line Forester 16432, 3269 more than 13163 8/13. YTD 105,356 Outback 11428, 1265 more than 10163 8/13. YTD 85951 Legacy 5987, 2033 more than 3954 8/13. YTD 28,520 Crosstrek 8244, 3487 more than 4757 8/13. YTD 48,612 Impreza 5938, 846 less than 6784 8/13. YTD 42,405 WRX, STI 1474, 239 more than 1235 8/13. YTD 16,714 BRZ 720, 148 less than 868 8/13. YTD 5739 Tribeca 23, 114 less than 137 8/14. YTD 671 8/29 2015 Outback brochures now available at dealers 8/26 Impreza orders closing Wednesday 8/27 5pm the final day to order one of the remaining new 14 Imprezas that were not closed off on 7/24 is 5pm 8/27/14. 2015 Imprezas/Crosstreks usually arrive starting late September into October, and details on model and features changes are expected soon. 8/20 2015 Legacy brochures available July 2014 sales total 45,714, 27% increase over 35,994 sold July 2013 YTD total is 283,722, which is 43131 cars more than July YTD 2013. A year ago 400,000 was the goal for 2014, then it bumped to 420,000, now with Subaru's strongest selling months ahead, 500,000 is possible. Forester is the July 2014 sales leader with a strong increase over last July (2013) but expect the new Outback's numbers to jump as the 2015 becomes available and especially in September when the upgraded Eyesight arrives. Sales by model Forester 14524, a whopping 48% increase over 9841 July 2013 Outback 11,768, 13% increase over 10,456 July 2013. Crosstrek 6,603, a 42% increase over 4,636 July 2013 Legacy 4,679, a 49% increase over 3,142 July 2013 Impreza 5,368, a 4% drop from 5,614 July 2013 WRX, STI 2,005, a 36% increase over 1,471 July 2013 BRZ 724, a 35 increase over 706 July 2013 Tribeca 43, a 66% drop from 128 July 2013 and the final ones are sold 7/24 2014 Impreza orders begin to close as the end of the model year approaches Some model/color/Option Package combinations are no longer available to order so if you want to a specific 2014 Impreza, now is the time to call your local dealer. It won't be long before Subaru closes off orders for the remainder of the 14 Imprezas and Crosstreks Here are the 2014 Imprezas that can't be ordered. Call your local dealer for Option Package availability. 4 door Premium Manual transmission- black, green 4 door Premium CVT- black, jasmine green, venetian red, quartz blue, white 4 door Limited- jasmine green, quartz blue, venetian red, white, black 5 door Premium manual transmission- quartz blue, white 5 door Premium CVT- jasmine green, quartz blue, venetian red, white, black 5 door Limited- black, jasmine green, quartz blue, venetian red, white, 5 door Sport Limited- quartz blue 7/21 Oil lawsuit.
There is a new lawsuit about oil burning issues in some late model Subarus. The models potentially involved so far are 4 cylinders only, not 6 cylinders- they are the 4 cylinder 2011-14 Forester, 2013 Legacy and Outback, 2012-13 Impreza, and 2013 Crosstrek. What's it about? Some cars are burning oil. Not many, but some. I only have one customer who is having an issue with oil but that doesn't mean it's not more common though on the internet it can seem that every car is a problem. Its not that widespread in my experience, but hopefully Subaru will address it aggressively because first, people expect Subaru to, and second because its the right thing to do and the negative impact of a slow response or a difficult multi-step process to identify problem cars will only make it worse. Over the past few years Subaru has had bulletins related to oil use and piston rings. The bottom line in my opinion is that these are good cars and if some have issues it isn't a reason to not buy one. I have a 2013 Crosstrek and a 2014 Outback. In the past there have been wheel shimmy issues, and head gasket issues, and I don't know of any car brand that doesn't or hasn't had something. Its just that the good companies respond quickly, an expensive lesson one would think that GM would have learned after the Toyota problems of a few years ago. from USA Today "A proposed class-action lawsuit contends Subaru of America failed to tell consumers about an oil-consumption problem in its most popular models. The suit claims the vehicles "prematurely burn off and/or consume abnormal and excessive amounts of engine oil" and alleges Cherry Hill-based Subaru has refused to fix the problem, saddling some customers with steep repair bills. The suit seeks to represent buyers of 2011-14 Foresters, the 2013 Legacy and 2013 Outback, all with 2.5-liter "Boxer" engines; and the 2012-13 Impreza and 2013 Crosstrek, with 2-liter "Boxer" engines. It says customers would not have bought the Subaru vehicles "or would have paid substantially less for them" if they'd known of the defect. Customers also have to "constantly replenish (and pay for) engine oil ... at an unreasonably rapid pace." It said some customers have paid $8,000 to Subaru dealers to repair the oil problem, and that drivers also face expenses for related problems, such as damage to vehicles' oxygen sensors, catalytic converters and spark plugs. The suit also asserts the alleged problem is a safety hazard, because engines potentially could fail "at any time and under any driving condition or speed." It cites no instances of injuries or accidents due to oil issue. The suit, filed Wednesday in federal court in Camden, also names Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Tokyo. A Subaru spokesman said the firm is aware of the lawsuit. "While we believe the oil consumption of our vehicles to be within acceptable levels, we continually work to reduce the amount of consumable goods, such as oil, that our vehicles require to operate," said company spokesman Michael McHale. "We have also worked with customers on this issue," he said in a statement. The suit was filed on behalf of Keith Yaeger, a California man who owns a 2014 Forester, and Michael Schuler, a Florida man who says he traded in his 2013 Outback at a loss due to the oil problem. "Following an extensive investigation, we now look forward to litigating the case," said Matthew Schelkopf, a Haverford, Pennsylvania, attorney for the Subaru owners. The lawsuit includes copies of complaints by Subaru owners to federal safety agencies. "The Internet is replete with examples of blogs and other websites where consumers have complained of the exact same oil consumption defect within the class (of) vehicles," it adds. The suit says Subaru in September and December 2013 issued four "technical service bulletins" alerting dealers to complaints of excessive engine oil consumption. It says the company issued revised versions of those bulletins in May of this year. The bulletins allegedly said the Subaru models "were experiencing abnormally high levels of engine oil consumption that warranted an intricate repair process to properly remedy," and identified "unanticipated wear of the oil control piston rings as the root cause of the oil consumption defect," the lawsuit added. Based on the timing of the initial bulletins, the suit says, "Subaru both acknowledged the oil consumption defect and suggested a repair ... while all, or nearly all, of the (affected models) should still be covered under Subaru's powertrain warranty." 7/20/14 2015 BRZ full color brochures available, 22 pages 7/12 2015 Outback trailer hitches on temporary hold 7/4 Hybrid review, Consumer Reports, July 2014 issue
They like the Crosstrek and appreciate it for the high-sitting Impreza 5 door that it is, but think the Hybrid doesn't offer enough of an upgrade for the added cost. "The XV Crosstrek is basically an Impreza hatchback with a higher ride height, added body cladding, and large black-painted wheels that are intended to give it a more rugged look. The regular XV's 148-hp, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine helps it deliver a frugal 26 mpg overall, which makes it among the most fuel-efficient SUVs in the class.... For those looking for even better gas mileage, Subaru introduced a hybrid version for 2014. But in our testing, we averaged only 2 mpg more -- 28 overall -- than in the regular XV....." Also in the July issue, reviews of the Jeep diesel and Accord hybrid, and the usual assortment of household goods- appliances (stoves, refrigerators, cooktops etc), air conditioners, sunscreens etc. Buy the July issue or subscribe online 7/3 recall- some 2003-2004 Outback, Legacy, Baja, Impreza, WRX/STI
the recall is to replace some improperly manufactured front passenger airbag inflators on some (not all) of these models Recall #WQL-48 some, not all... 2003 Legacy built 1/22/03-5/14/03 2004 Legacy built 3/17/03-2/10/04 2003 Outback built 2/18/;04-4/15/03 2004 Outback built 2/28'03-2/11/04 2003 Baja built 2/11/03-5/6/03 2004 Baja built 3/3/03-7/21/04 Impreza, WRX, STI built 1/8/03-5/15/03 7/1 June 2014 sales total 41,376, the best June ever, and up 2132 cars (5.4%) over 39,235 June 2013 YTD the total is 238,008, up 33,411 cars (16%) over 204,597 YTD 2013. At this pace Subaru is on track for an amazing total over 450,000 for the year. And with the new Outback and Legacy, and some strong summer and winter months ahead where Subaru usually shines, these numbers could be even higher. The Forester continues as the sales leader. The new 2015 Outback with its new side and rear radar and upgraded Eyesight systems could change that. BRZ sales are down from last June. Crosstrek and WRX STI are both doing well. Tribeca soldiers on with 61 cars sold for the month. Forester 13,317, up 3147 cars (30.1%) from 10,170 June 2013 Outback 11,525, down 685 cars (5.6%) from 12,210 June 2013 Crosstrek 5,434 up 782 cars (16.8%) over 4,652 June 2013 Legacy 3,131, down 1232 cars (28.2%) from 4363 June 2013 Impreza 5,277, up 67 cars (1.3%) over 5,210 June 2013 WRX STI 2,065, up 368 cars (21.7%) over 1,697 June 2013 BRZ 557, down 232 cars (29.4%) from 789 June 2013 Tribeca 61, down 83 cars (58%) from 144 June 2013 6/30 Ex CMO Dean Evans is the new CEO of auto shopping company LotLinx. He joined the company last week. Evans, 45, who left Subaru in May, succeeded Jason Knight, who headed LotLinx since December 2012. Knight has remained with the company as COO. Evans said in an interview with Automotive News that LotLinx approached him a few months ago while he was at Subaru. “It’s really exciting to go from a corporate job to a smaller company,” Evans said. “I’ve been assessing the business model, the go-to-market plan and the new growth strategy.” LotLinx -- launched online in October 2013 -- provides a technology platform that directly links car shoppers from search engines and automotive research sites to dealership listings, avoiding lead forms on third-party sites such as AutoTrader.com and Cars.com. The company’s Web site states: “We are a company built and run by Automotive Industry leaders.” According to Bloomberg Businessweek, Knight’s experience before LotLinx was based in the consumer products and food and beverage industries. He had been CEO of HMR Foods Inc. and COO of Mozzarella Fresca Inc. Evans’ resume alternates between the automotive and technology industries. He started his career in Boulder, Colo., as a Pontiac dealership salesman in 1990. He became a field representative for Chrysler from 1991 to 1996, before managing a dealership in San Francisco from 1996 to 1998. He began working in online startups in 1998, moving from Nextag to Autofusion in 2000. When Autofusion ran out of money, Evans rejoined the auto industry as digital marketing manager for Land Rover’s U.S. operations in 2001. Evans tried the dot.com industry again in 2003, working for Dealix, Cobalt and Dealer.com. In September 2011, he took the chief marketing officer spot at Subaru. As chief marketing officer, Evans implemented innovative digital marketing strategies, such as Google paid search ads, to direct consumer traffic from competitors. As LotLinx CEO, he will oversee strategic direction, customer relations and the company’s Vehicle Display Network. “LotLinx is the first disruptive technology marketing product that I have seen in the last five years that delivers such a compelling competitive advantage to dealers,” Evans said in a statement. “The metrics prove that VDP advertising should be prioritized ahead of paid search, third-party lead buys and targeted display spends because it presents consumers who are lower funnel at a lower cost.” Evans said in the interview with Automotive News that while he hopes to eventually return to retail, the technology LotLinx is developing is vital to industry progress, and an opportunity he wanted to be a part of. “When I saw this emerging technology coming up … it was something retail really needed,” Evans said. “I wanted to go back to the technology side and go though another wave of evolution.” read the original article 6/26 Roy Robinson Subaru moved to a new showroom 6001 33rd Ave NE, Marysville, Wa, 98271 6/21 summer starts 2015 Outback and Legacy due early-mid July but some dealers are already receiving them 6/18 2015 Outback and Legacy finance rates and lease programs announced.
The 2015 Outback and Legacy aren't expected to start arriving until late June or early July. Finance rates for both Outback and Legacy are 1.90% x 24-36-48 mos, 2.90% x 60-63-72 months, which is pretty strong on car that aren't even available yet. Probably the 14 rates will drop in July. All rates are on approval of credit. 6/12 2015 Outback orders start Friday 13th at 2pm EST. Eyesight will also be orderable at that time on both Outback and Legacy though Eyesight won't be available until the fall. 6/12 recall.. brake line recall WQK-47, only affects salt-belt state cars There is the possibility of brake line corrosion when the brake line is exposed to salt water in the cold weather, salt-belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Wa, D.C., Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin. Salt water could splash on the brake lines through a gap in the fuel tank protector, resulting in possible excessive corrosion and leaking brake fluid which could affect stopping distances. Drivers should be careful, check the brake fluid, and watch for the dashboard brake lamp warning light. Years/models include some 2005-2009 Outback and Legacy, 2008-2011 Impreza (not WRX, STI), 2008-2014 WRX and STI, and 2009-2013 Foresters. Owners will be notified by mail, and dealers cannot sell any cars subject to the recall. This is recall #WQK-47 (note- this is similar to recall #WGQ-43 for the 2005-2009 Outback/Legacy in April 2013) 6/5 2015 Outback specs, prices announced.
Orders not available yet but expected soon. Cars expected late June (maybe) or the first week or two of July. 2015 Outback specs, prices, options... 6/3 new June NW/Seattle area finance rates announced include 0%x60 months for the Outback 3.6R Limited. This is the last year for the 6 cylinder/5 speed automatic transmission model. The coming 2015 6 cylinder will have a CVT transmission. Other NW area rates remain the same. The 2015 Legacy is expected in June, the new Outback and BRZ in July. 6/3 May sales 44,170 cars for the month. That's the new 2nd best month ever, right behind the current #1 month, which is March 2014 (2 months ago) record of 44,479 cars.. YTD 196,642 compared to 165,363 YTD 2013 May 2014 sales by model Forester 14,146, up 41% from 10,067 May 2013! This is the best month ever for the Forester and could the highest volume month for any single line in Subaru's history which is strong confirmation the Forester is now the top selling, most popular Subaru, replacing the soon to be updated Outback. But don't count the Outback out... an all new Outback is coming in July.. Outback 11,641, down 5% from 12,270 May 2013. Inventory is very strong and there are low finance rates to help June sales Crosstrek 5,778, up 9% over 5295 May 2013. The only thing keeping sales down is that Subaru can't supply more cars Impreza 5,659, up 8% over 5,219 May 2013. The Impreza is holding its own against the Crosstrek as long as Crosstrek supply is low Legacy 3,053, down 31% from 4,431 May 2013. The all new 15 model is due later this month and this is the inventory gap between 14/15 models, and also a great time to get a 2014 WRX, STI 2957, up 62% over 1829 May 2014. The new model takes off. New orders can take 2-4 months BRZ 852, up 25% over 679 May 2013 Tribeca 84, down 18% from 102 May 2013. The Tribeca's clock struck midnight, these are the final remaining months 5/29 2015 BRZ prices and specs announced. Prices all models increased $100 MSRP Destination remains the same at $795 MSRP including the $795 destination: Premium $26,490, Limited $28,490, Limited automatic $29,590, Series.Blue $30,285 The only changes on the Premium is new carbon fiber small patterned plastic dash and audio trim, two stainless exhaust tips. No changes announced on the Limited. The big change is a short production run of 1000 new top of the line "Series.Blue" models. The Series.Blue will be built July and August in WR Blue Pearl and Crystal White Pearl the Series.Blue is a Limited manual transmission and includes these features/upgrades: Alcantara with blue leather bolsters, blue leather headrests, blue stitching Carpeted floor mats with BRZ logo and blue stitching 17" STI black alloys, red front and rear brake calipers, carbon fiber large patterned dash and audio plastic trim Center console side pads with blue stitching Doors: soft touch urethane with blue stitching and lower knee pads with blue stitching Manual shift boot- simulated leather with blue stitching Parking brake handle- leather wrapped with blue stitching Steering wheel- black and blue leather with blue stitching Pushbutton start- illuminated red with STI logo Frameless rear view mirror STI front, side and rear underspoilers 5/19 2015 Legacy orders now available. Also colors announced, and both the black and the white are now available with either black or ivory interiors. This is new, both were previously only available in ivory. 2015 Legacy specs, prices, options 5/16 2015 Legacy prices and options announced. Cars expected late June, and we're still waiting on the order system to open. No Outback information was released but that's going to be soon. Destination continues at $795 (to AK $945) with no increase for the first time in years PZEV emissions ($300 MSRP) continue to be required on 2.5L models sold in CA, CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NJ, NY, OR, PA, RI, VT, WA Overall, the 2015 price increases are small. The base 2.5i model is $22,490/$22,790 PZEV, up $400 from 2014 model $22,090/$22,390 PZEV Premium model is $24,290/$24,590PZEV, up $200 from 2014 model $24,090/$24,390 PZEV Limited is $27,290/$27,590 PZEV, up $600 from 2014s $26,690/$26.990 PZEV 3.6 Limited is $30,390, up $700 from 2014 model's $29,690 2015 Legacy specs, prices, options 5/5 WRX and STI score top ratings for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS.com)
from IIHS.org "The 2015 Subaru WRX, a small, sporty car, earns the IIHS Top Safety Pick award for good performance in each of the Institute's crashworthiness evaluations, including the small overlap front test. This is the first time IIHS has rated the WRX, which was completely redesigned for 2015. Although it shares some design elements with the Subaru Impreza, there are sufficient differences for the vehicles to be rated separately. In the small overlap test, the structure of the WRX held up, and the driver's space was maintained well. The dummy's movement was well-controlled, and measures taken from the dummy indicated a low risk of any significant injuries. The dummy's head made good contact with the front airbag, which stayed in position during the crash. The side airbag deployed with enough forward coverage to protect the head from contact with side structure and outside objects. The Institute introduced the small overlap evaluation in 2012. In the test, which is more challenging than either the head-on crashes conducted by the government or the IIHS moderate overlap test, 25 percent of a vehicle's front end on the driver's side strikes a rigid barrier at 40 mph. The crash replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole. The WRX also earned good ratings in the moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests. With the addition of the WRX, Subaru now has six models that have earned 2014 safety awards from IIHS — three with Top Safety Pick and three with Top Safety Pick+. To qualify for Top Safety Pick, a vehicle must earn a good or acceptable rating for small overlap protection and a good rating in the other four tests. The "plus" is awarded to vehicles that meet those criteria and also earn a rating of basic or higher for front crash prevention." the IIHS website, the WRX and STI review
5/3 CMO Dean Evans leaves Subaru
Dean Evans, who pushed Subaru of America into the world of digital marketing while its U.S. sales soared, has left after fewer than three years at the automaker. Mr. Evans will pursue "other opportunities," the automaker said in a statement today. Alan Bethke, VP-marketing, will serve as interim head of the department "until the company announces its longer-term strategy to replace Evans." He had made his mark in the industry as chief marketing officer at Dealer.com starting in 2007 and was also e-business director for Jaguar, Land Rover and Aston Martin when they were part of Ford Motor Co. Subaru left website builder Cobalt.com and signed with dealer.com. Mr. Evans, 45, joined Subaru in September 2011 and has been senior VP-chief marketing officer. "I loved the Subaru experience and am honored to have been part of the team," Mr. Evans told Automotive News. "The entrepreneur in me must focus my main attention to different priorities and ventures now." Subaru is the only brand to increase U.S. sales in each of the past six years and has recorded double-digit increases in each of the past 16 months. Mr. Evans reported to Subaru President Tom Doll. "We wish Dean well as he pursues other opportunities," Mr. Doll said in the statement. "Dean brought strong digital talent to Subaru and leaves behind a strong bench within his group." 5/2 May 1-June2- Love Springs Twice Certified Sales Event- 0.99% financing up to 48 months, oac, on Certified pre-owned 2014, 2013, 2012, and 2011 Subarus. Other rates and terms are available, oac Certified Subarus have the balance of the 3year or 36,000 mile complete warranty and 7 year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty.  5/1 April 2014 sales total 40,083, 22%, 7140 car, over April 2013 Forester continues as the sale leader, outselling the previous top selling Outback. Perhaps buyers are telling Subaru they prefer the slightly smaller Forester over the larger Outback. The proof will be when the 15 Outback is available, and if all the new safety features increase sales. YTD sales total is 152471, and whopping 22% over 125470 YTD 2013 Forester 11547, 23% over 9366 4/13 Outback 10663, 22% over 8730 4/13 Legacy 3126, 5% less than 3286 4/13 Crosstrek 5678 (including 2750 hybrids), 28% over 4433 4/13 Impreza 5444, 16% over 4692 4/13 WRX, STI 2698, 79% over 1508 4/13 BRZ 820, + 8 cars, so basically a tie with 812 4/13 Tribeca 107, -9 cars from 116 4/13. 4/30 2015 Outback mini-brochure now at dealers. 4/24 2015 Outback webpage is up. Expect frequent changes and updates to the page. The cars are expected late June (?) with orders starting in May 4/22 last day for ordering a 14 Outback or legacy. 4/17 2015 WRX/STI and Forester brochures available at dealers 4/11 2014 Outback and Legacy orders end Tuesday, 4/22 at 4pm so get them in if you want a 2014.
This is the last of this version for these cars. Orders for the Outback
3.6L with the 5 speed automatic already ended on 2/28. Opening of
orders for the redesigned 2015s will be announced later with the new
models expected late June/July. The 2015 Outback will be shown at the NY Auto Show, April 18-27.
4/3 WRX and STI optional Performance Exhaust upgrade on hold.
Due to an undisclosed issue, Subaru is not shipping any cars with, or accepting new orders for, the upgraded Performance Exhaust option. If you ordered a car with it, the delivery will be pushed back, with availability restarting (hopefully) in June. With any new car, with all the new computer programming, new parts, and new vendors, that there are some problems or delays shouldn't be a surprise. And Subaru is very proactive in fixing things as soon as they can. 4/1 March sales... the BEST month ever with a new record of 44,479 cars.
The previous top month was last August 2013 with 41,061 cars purchased. For the 1st quarter of 2014, January-March. Subaru sold 112,388 cars, beating the previous best quarter of 92,527 set the same time last year. Most models were up for March. The exceptions were the discontinued Tribeca which still managed a respectable (considering its been discontinued) 139 cars, the rear wheel drive BRZ which is struggling with a temporary bit of winter doldrums, and the Legacy which is only due a tight supply without enough cars available. For the first time, Subaru released a Crosstrek Hybrid sales total, saying 725 were sold March 2014. Thats a good number considering its an all new model with many new technologies that Subaru people, from customers to dealers, are not familiar with. And there's been some advertising but not much. And starting April, Subaru has a new lower financing rates for the Crosstrek Hybrid starting at 0.90%. The Crosstrek 2.0i model financing starts at 2.9%, so Subaru is starting to promote the model. And as people become familiar with the car, they will understand what it offers over the Crosstrek 2.0s (quieter, zippier, and yes better economy) and why it will grow into another Subaru success The top seller is the Forester at 13846, outselling Outback's 11729 March 2014 sales by 2117 cars. Outback 11729, up from 10453 March 2013 Forester 13846 up a dramatic 4796 over last 9050 last March 2013 Legacy 3234, down 27% from 4400 last March Crosstrek 6585 including 725 Hybrids, up 1897 over 4688 last March WRX STI 2181, up 454 cars, 26%, over 1727 March 2013 Impreza 5908, up 581 cars over last March's 5327 BRZ 857 cars, down 5% from 905 march 2013 Tribeca, a respectable 139 for March 2014, which is pretty close but still down from 151 sold March 2013
3/29 2015 WRXs and STIs are slowly starting to arrive.
Some will be pre-sold but not all. Call your local dealer
for availability, or me if you're in the greater Seattle/NW area
3/10 2015 Outback will be at the NY Auto Show, April 18-27, 2014. Cars expected late June. 3/9 2015 Foresters available for order Monday 3/10. 2015 Forester specs, options, details research page Cars expected starting in late April. Are you buying in the greater Puget Sound area or have questions? Call me at 206 769-7821 3/8 Spring forward- turn clocks ahead one hour
3/7 2015 Forester orders will be available starting 3/10
3/6 Consumer Reports annual April car issue is out, and worth getting if you're thinking of buying a car, or just into cars... It has reviews on all the new 2014s, and suggestions as to best and worst new and used to buy or to avoid, the cheapest and most expensive to own over 5 years, the thriftiest fuel sipper and thirstiest fuel guzzler, a handy chart of safety/crash test results and much more. There's a wide spread of models from a variety of companies, and no one company rules the rankings... A few highlights... in the Top Picks section, the Tesla S is the Best Overall, and the Subaru Impreza makes the cut as a Top Pick Compact Car and the Forester in the Small SUV category. In the 'Who Makes The Best Cars' section, #1 is Lexus, followed by Acura, Audi, Subaru, Toyota, Mazda, Honda.... The Crosstrek makes the list of least expensive cars to own over 5 years, The Impreza, Legacy, Forester and Crosstrek make the Best cars under $25000 list. Its worth picking the magazine up at your local newsstand.... 3/5 Subaru management- top level changes, effective April 1, 2014 Most importantly, Tom Doll continues as SoA President and COO, but above and around him things are changing. Current SoA Chairman and CEO Takeshi Tachimori is being replaced by Tomomi Nakamura. Tachimori joined Fuji in 1977 and is moving up to director of the Subaru Global Marketing Divisions which includes SoA. He was Chairman and SEO of SoA starting April 1, 2011, and became a Corporate Exec VP April 1, 2013. His replacement as SoA Chairman and CEO, Tomomi Nakamura, joined Subaru in 1982 and was previously Senior GM of the Subaru Global Marketing Division. In a related local change, Toshiaki Tamegai, previously Senior General Manager, Gunma Plant, will heading up SIA, replacing Masaki Okawara who is becoming Chief General Manager of Subaru Manufacturing Div. and Gunma Plant. 3/3 February sales- 34909 a strong 24% increase over 28,163 February 2013, and the 19th record setting month in a row. YTD Feb 2014 sales is already 67909 which is 22% over 55826 YTD 2013. If these numbers continue for the next 10 months of 2014, Subaru could sell 510,000 cars, that's in the unlikely case there were enough cars to reach that lofty total. Crosstrek is now consistently outselling its sibling Impreza, with only a tight supply holding Crosstrek sales back (inventory is a frequent Subaru issue, a problem of being popular). There's a strong supply of BRZs, and new lower finance rates should increase sales in March. I have over 20 available! Call me for local price if you're buying a Subaru in the greater Puget Sound area- 206 769-7821 February sales by model BRZ 617, up 47% over 420 Feb 2013. There's currently a strong supply of BRZs Forester 10,773, up 95% over the 5529 remaining 2013s, Feb 2013 Outback 8967, down 1% from 9016 Feb '13 Crosstrek 5489, up 68% over 3258 Feb '13 Impreza 4459, up 1% over 4515 Feb '13 Legacy 2575, down 31% from 3745 Feb '13. The redesigned, updated 15 Legacy has already been announced, available June/July WRX STI 1801, up 21% over 1486 Feb '13. The all new redesigned 15s will be available starting late April/May. I can order now for you... Tribeca 128, down 34% from 194 Feb '13. The Tribeca has been discontinued, this is a good time to get one with 0% financing For comparison, the top 5 cars in February are #1 Ford with 176,688 sales, down 7.2%. #2 was Chevy with 153,913, down 2.9%. #3 Toyota with 135,900, down 5.6%. #4 Nissan with 105,631, up 16.7%. #5 Honda 88,860 down 8% 2/28 KBB's Top 10 Hybrid list... the Crosstrek comes in at #10
#1 Prius, 2 Accord, 3 Camry, 4 Prius V, 5 Fusion, 6 Acura ILX, 7 Ford C-Max, 8 Prius C, 9 Jetta, 10 Crosstrek "Today's hybrid cars aren't just more efficient than yesterday's, they also offer better performance. In fact some hybrids are quicker than their gas-only counterparts, thanks to the immediate boost provided by the electric motor. And with more choices than ever, going gas-electric has never been more appealing. There are more than 20 hybrids priced under $30,000, and we've hand-picked the 10 best. > #10 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek
Subaru's first hybrid doesn't deliver all the efficiency of the other cars on the list, but it's the only one with all-wheel drive. Combined with higher ground clearance and cargo versatility, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid is among the most capable and flexible hybrids you can buy for less than $30,000. City/hwy/combined: 29/33/31 mpg.." read the entire article 2/27 Outback 3.6L orders shut off after tomorrow 2/28
The 3.6s have been uncommon for a while and now they can't be ordered anymore. 2015 3.6Ls will reportedly have a CVT instead of the 5 spd automatic, and be available this June/July. 2/26 2015 Forester specs and prices released. Destination now $850, was $825. Subaru crosses a threshold with destination to Alaska at $1000 . new- base 2.5i gets rear view camera and color multi-function display like the 14 Premiums with fuel economy gauges, maintenance reminders etc new- base 2.5i CVT has optional alloy wheel and roof rail package. new- 2.5i Premium manual gets moonroof new- 2.5i Touring and 2.0XT Touring loses navigation but gets keyless access with pushbutton start, HID low beams, chrome rocker panel trim, and 18" alloys new- 2.0XT premium gets the All Weather Pkg new- optional Eyesight is now available on 2.5 Premium, Limited and Touring models The good changes - roof rails available on the base model CVT with #02 pkg - backup camera standard on the base model, so it's now on all models - 2.0XT Premium gets the all weather package. - Touring models lose the navigation system (its now optional), and instead get standard pushbutton start and HID low beams. Things I wish they had changed on the 2015s but didn't.. - added Paddle Shifters. It didn't happen. - fixed the very problematical power rear gate mechanism. It didn't happen. Only available on the Limited and Touring models, the overly complicated rear gate needs 4 pages of instructions in the owner's manual (!?), plus its slow to open and tugging on it makes it not open correctly. - 2nd generation Eyesight. Doesn't seem to have made it to the 2015 Forester
2/20 2015 WRX, STI webpage finally up. Contact me if you want to talk about ordering one in the NW- phone 206 769-7821 2/17 watch a WRX get a cop car moving in the snow "Sometimes a simple 4-cylinder will do you better than all the RWD Hemis out there. We all love the sound and power of a good American sedan, like the RWD Dodge Chargers used by numerous police departments across the country. Whether in V-6 or V-8 form- they are the classic choice for an American 4-door. But when it comes to getting around in the aftermath of a massive snow storm, an AWD H-4 will fare you much better. This lesson was learned the hard way by a policeman who needed the help of a kind 2nd gen Subaru driver to get his cruiser back on the road." watch this video 2/16 what can a Crosstrek do in a snowstorm? Check out the video of Ezra Dyer working out his green Hybrid "How we rescued a snowbound UPS truck using a Subaru and a tow strap Sometimes the secret to success is being just dumb enough to attempt the impossible. For instance, trying to tow a snowbound UPS truck up a steep hill with a small Subaru. That doesn’t seem like a feasible idea, does it? But you’ve got nothing to lose by trying, which is how I find myself dragging a UPS truck up a hill with a Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid. The day before the latest crippling Southern snowstorm, I’m in possession of a bright green Subaru and a head full of bad ideas. I visit Lowe’s and buy a forged steel hook, which I shackle to the Subaru’s tow eye to create a beefy attachment point for my tow strap. I figure that when the storm hits, I’ll just cruise around in the all-wheel-drive Subaru and rescue the non-Subaru-having motorists. I get more action than I bargained for.... The Subaru will now face its real test. The Crosstrek Hybrid, despite its compact wagon packaging, rocks a downright SUV-worthy 8.7 inches of ground clearance. And its all-wheel-drive system is beefier than that of most crossovers, with an active center clutch that can send 100 percent of the torque to either end of the car. Moreover, when you deactivate the stability control system it will allow healthy wheelspin while still stepping in to shuffle torque via the traction control system. This thing can sink claws. As for the hybrid part of the equation, this system is more for marketing than fuel economy, with a tiny electric motor built into the CVT transmission and a .55 kw/h battery lodged under the rear cargo area. Compared to the standard Crosstrek, the Hybrid gains 12 horsepower (for 160), and three miles per gallon, for 31 mpg combined. But you won’t be running 45 mph on the battery as you can in, say, a Ford Fusion Hybrid. The Crosstrek Hybrid’s biggest boon is its torque curve, topping out at 163 lb-ft at 2,000 rpm. On its own, the peaky standard 2.0-liter manages 145 lb-ft at 4,200 rpm. So, the Crosstrek Hybrid has the torque curve of a decent turbo motor paired with the four-wheel traction of, well, a Subaru. Would those ingredients be enough to turn it into a righteous little green tow truck? The cop manning this approach to the glut is bemused at my assumption that I can help anyone, but he’s game to let me try. An F-250 is towing the first UPS truck up the hill, so I drive down to hook up to the second one. The delivery driver, like the cop, doesn’t seem to expect much. Frankly, neither do I. I throw a hook on his bumper, draw the strap tight and deactivate VDC. We both hit the gas and for a long moment the Subaru strains and spins its tires to no avail. But I stay on the throttle and the Crosstrek soon mines its way down to pavement. I saw the wheel to get it dancing — an old truck-pull technique that, safe to say, is finding its first application in Subaru-to-delivery-truck assistance — and to everyone’s disbelief the big brown truck starts moving. For the next 30 seconds, the silence of the falling snow is broken by the UPS truck’s diesel chatter commingled with the signature sound of a wailing Subaru flat-four. The Crosstrek resolutely drags the truck up the slope while a crowd of bystanders gawks in amazement. But we soon reach an impasse as we try to navigate between a street sign on the shoulder and a stuck Grand Marquis in the middle of the road. The UPS truck drops his left rear wheel onto the shoulderand we stop to regroup. We need to get the Grand Marquis out of here first, but once that’s done he should be able to back down the hill onto the road for a straight shot up and out. I hook the Crosstrek to the Grand Marquis and easily tow it up the hill to send it on its way. A guy in the passenger seat, having just witnessed the Subaru towing the UPS truck, asks the price for the Crosstrek Hybrid. I tell him it’s about 26 grand and he replies, “You tell them they did a good job with that one.”.." read the entire article, with photos and a video. 2/13 2015 WRX and STI orders start tomorrow 2/14. Its a Valentine's Day to remember.
Contact me if you want to talk about ordering one 2/7 NW Flower and Garden Show, February 5-9, 2014, Seattle Convention Center.
Have a Subaru? Show your car key at the Subaru display for a free "Love, Peace & Subaru" magnetic bumper sticker.  2/6 Portland Auto Show
see the all new 2015 WRX (too bad they didn't also bring one to the NW Flower and Garden Show in Seattle this weekend) The auto show is Thursday Feb 6 to Sunday 9th. PortlandAutoShow.com, Oregon Convention Ctr, 777 NE MLK Jr Blvd, Portland 2/5 Subaru True Love Event. Red heart shaped Subaru lollipops for Valentine's Day. Click the image for more photos  2/3 January sales total 33,000, a new record, beating January 2013's 27,663 total by 5,337 cars (19%) Forester was the volume leader for the January. Current Forester supply continues to be very tight with many models unavailable for immediate delivery, and while the shortage is bad, it adds to the strength of the buyer's desire.... as in "absence makes the heart grow fonder", "you always want what you can't get", "no one wants to eat in an empty restaurant", "everyone wants to date the popular gal/guy" and etc. Current Outback and BRZ inventory is high, and Legacy, Impreza, Crosstrek, and WRX/STI inventory is weak. January sales by model Outback 8,230, down 402 from 8632 sold Jan '13 Forester 10,771, 4,206 car more than 6565 in Jan '13 Crosstrek 4801, up 2037 over the 2764 sold Jan '13 Impreza 4252, down 338 from 4590 in Jan '13 Legacy 2735, down 449 from 3184 in Jan '13 WRX STI 1553, up 227 over the 1306 sold Jan '13 BRZ 592, 129 increase over 463 in Jan, 13 Tribeca 86, down 73 from the 159 sold Jan '13. 1/31 The giant NW Flower and Garden Show in Seattle Feb 5-9.
Visit the Subaru display, see the Crosstrek Hybrid, and show your Subaru keys for a free gift. The Garden Show 1/30 tomorrow Friday 1/31 is the last day to choose a Share the Love charity if you bought a car from November 21- January 2, 201 1/29 current finance rates end Feb 3rd, new rates announced on Tuesday 2/4
1/28 2015 WRX and STI orders open 2/14/14, Valentine's Day 1/30 Jet Chevrolet ran a promotion
before the Seahawks beat the Giants in December that if the Seattle
team shut out the New York team, 12 people would split $420,000 equally.
Jet Chevrolet, a car dealership in Federal Way, Wash., located 25 miles south of Seattle, had a promotion that if the Seahawks shut out the Giants, 12 people would split $420,000 equally. "This is crazy," said Jim Johnson, one of the owners of the dealership. "We never expected that we'd actually be giving away the money." "A Federal Way car dealership doled out $420,000 to 12 lucky customers on Friday 1/24. Seahawks blew away the Giants 23-0 at Met Life Stadium in New Jersey. Co-owners Jim and Dan Johnson cut the $35,000 checks on Friday for the 12 fans. Luckily, Jet Chevrolet took out an insurance policy on the shutout money giveaway. Instead of the $420,000, the contest cost the dealership about $7,000. 1/29 what does your really know about you? with all the technology and black boxes in cars means they about your driving. "Auto industry needs privacy rules, Ford’s Mulally says The automotive industry needs legislation to protect drivers’ privacy as more cars utilize data for location tracking and other services, Ford Chief Executive Officer Alan Mulally said... The second-largest U.S. automaker has countered comments made last week by its global marketing chief, who said Ford knows when drivers of its vehicles violate traffic laws through its GPS data. “It’s just really important that we have boundaries and guidelines to operate,” Mulally told reporters on the sidelines of the show. “Our homes, the cars, everything is going to be on the Internet. Everything’s going to be connected. And so what are the guidelines? What do we want?” In-vehicle technology is the top selling point for 39 percent of car buyers today, more than twice the 14 percent who say their first consideration is traditional performance measures such as power and speed, according to a study that consulting firm Accenture released in December. A separate Government Accountability Office (GAO) report last month said that while carmakers and navigation-device companies are taking steps to protect privacy, some risks may not be clear to consumers. Jim Farley, executive vice president of global marketing at Ford, said on a panel at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas last week that Ford can use technology to know when a driver commits a criminal act. “We know everyone who breaks the law; we know when you’re doing it. We have GPS in your car, so we know what you’re doing,” he said, according to Business Insider. “By the way, we don’t supply that data to anyone.” Mulally said Tuesday that Farley’s comments were inaccurate. “What he said was not right,” he said. “We do not track the vehicles. That’s absolutely wrong. We would never track the vehicles. And we’d only send data to get map data if they agree that that’s OK to do that, but we don’t do anything with the data, we don’t track it and we would never do that.” The GAO published its report in response to a request by U.S. Sen. Al Franken, D-Minn., who in 2011 proposed a law intended to protect the privacy of mobile-device users’ location data. The report “underscores the need for me to reintroduce and pass my location-privacy bill,” Franken said in a Jan. 6 statement. Franken is chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Privacy, Technology and the Law, and has offered separate proposals to require more disclosure by the National Security Agency of its operations, after documents released by former government contractor Edward Snowden sparked a firestorm over privacy concerns. Sergio Marchionne, the CEO of the third-largest U.S. automaker Chrysler Group and its owner Fiat, said Monday his companies don’t collect data on its customers. “We have been very, very wary of either having direct access in a personal way to the vehicle itself,” Marchionne told reporters at the auto show. “We have left this information in such large data status that it cannot, in any way, shape or form, allow us to formulate a view of either a particular individual or a class of people.” The number of cars connected to the Internet worldwide will grow more than sixfold to 152 million in 2020 from 23 million now, according to researcher IHS Automotive. “We’re in a connected world,” Mulally said Tuesday. “So this whole thing about our data, privacy, whatever; there’s going to be a lot of good work done to establish guidelines and expectations. It’s great that is happening now.” read the entire article 1/28 growth and keeping the new customer happy Subarus exponential growth the past few years has brought in many new owners- 60% of 2013's growth came from first time Subaru buyers. The new buyers have high expectations of Subaru's initial quality and overall reliability. And since this is their first Subaru, every noise, sound and feature is different from their previous brand car and a reason to visit the service department. Service departments aren't ready for the increase in activity following the years of growth, and as hourly service rates pass $100/hr, free service loan cars and waiting room snacks are a common way to offset the inconvenience of maintenance and repair visits. The quantity of repair bays affects appointment availability and turn-around times so Subaru is encouraging and helping dealers to expand their service departments. At the 2014 NADA convention in New Orleans..."Subaru dealers were given preliminary details of the brand's new program to increase fixed-operations capacity at its U.S. dealerships. Called Fixed Operations Expansion, or FOX, Subaru wants to increase its service capacity by 70 percent in four years. Each dealer will receive a report with recommendations based on projected future growth by Subaru. Dealers will get financial support from Subaru based on how much they spend for the service upgrades, said Phil Porter, chairman of the Subaru National Dealer Advisory Board and owner of Subaru stores in Connecticut and Florida. "It is a fabulous deal and it is very fair. If someone came and offered you this kind of assistance and you didn't take it, you would be crazy," Porter said at the NADA convention here on Sunday. He declined to provide details. The expansion program aims to increase the number of lifts and service bays and to upgrade service technology, shop equipment and amenities, said Tom Doll, president of Subaru of America. "We have a pool of money set aside, and how much we spend will depend on how many people sign up for the program," Doll said. "It is optional but we are highly encouraging our retailers to participate in the program." read the original article 1/28 a summary of
various AWD systems by auto.msn.com. Its not complete but is a good
start for understanding the various AWD systems.
"The sales say it all: Americans are increasingly opting for all-wheel-drive vehicles. Nearly one third of new vehicles sold in the United States last year were equipped with some form of all-wheel drive, and the rise of brands such as Audi means that those numbers will likely grow larger. To better understand how all-wheel drive works, we're taking a brief technical dive into some of the best-selling all-wheel-drive vehicles on the market..." read the entire article The article covers Subaru Symmetrical AWD, Mitsubishi S-AWC, Audi Quattro, Mazda Active Torque Split, Acura SH-AWD, BMW xDrive, Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC, Nissan ATTESA-ETS, Ferrari 4RM, Jeep, Hybrid AWD system. Not all the details are completely correct however. Subaru manuals use Continuous AWD- 50/50 front back power split, mechanical system Subaru CVTs use Active AWD, 90/10 or 80/20 front/rear power split (Subaru wont release details). eclectronically controlled Subaru 6 cylinder 5 speed automatics use VTD (variable torque distribution) with 45/55 front/back power split, electronically controlled. 1/27 Share the Love ... time to select the charity to receive $250 from Subaru if you bought a car from November 21- January 2, 2014, you have until January 31, 2014 to select the charity to receive the $250 donation from Subaru. The charities are ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Meals On Wheels. New this year are the National Park Foundation and Teach For America, and a 6th choice chosen by the dealer that will vary from dealer to dealer. 1/27 beyond the Hybrid, lurking just around the corner... January 10 "...This week at the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Toyota announced plans to release a fuel-cell car in 2015. At the fall auto shows, Honda and Hyundai also revealed their fresh take on this headline-grabbing technology. All three have unveiled design studies intended to signal that fuel-cell vehicles, which produce zero tailpipe pollutants, are close to production. Each concept vehicle demonstrated progress in the efficiency and packaging of their fuel-cell systems, which generate electricity onboard by combining hydrogen and oxygen and emit only water vapor. What these automakers failed to deliver in terms of specifics they offset with lofty promises of a real and rapidly approaching hydrogen-based future. Before you file this news with reports of the imminent arrival of flying cars, consider this: For the past four months, I have been living with fuel-cell technology, logging more than 2,500 miles at the wheel of a Toyota Highlander FCHV-adv test bed. The technowonder that visited my driveway was based on a 2008 Highlander midsize crossover. It offered nearly 300 miles of driving range and five-minute fill-ups — a combination that no battery-electric car offers. I drove for days without tailpipe emissions and without depleting the tank. "Toyota made a decision — the fuel-cell car is going to be a big part of our future," says John Hanson, a Toyota spokesman. "That's the direction we're going, big time." In addition to Toyota, Honda and Hyundai, two other carmakers — General Motors and Mercedes-Benz — are also promising fuel-cell cars in the next few years. For me, the transition from an EV to a fuel-cell car meant trading one refueling limitation for another. My Nissan Leaf offers less than a third of the range of the fuel-cell Highlander, but replenishing it at home is as easy as charging a cellphone. When the tanks in the Highlander were nearing empty, I needed to make a 15-minute drive from my home in Berkeley, Calif., to the only accessible hydrogen station in Northern California, 6 miles away in Emeryville. A kilogram, or 2.2 pounds, of hydrogen contains nearly the same amount of energy as a gallon of gasoline. To top up, I added 4 to 5 kilograms of gaseous hydrogen into tanks at a pressure of 10,000 pounds per square inch. The Highlander traveled about 55 miles on a kilogram. I paid $12 to $13 a kilogram. Measured against a baseline of a 2008 Highlander Hybrid, which carried an EPA rating of 27 mpg in the city and 25 on the highway, that's roughly equivalent to paying $6 per gallon of gasoline. According to Toyota, full-scale production of hydrogen is projected to drop the cost below the current price of gasoline. The main challenge facing the company's engineers, however, is the vehicle's price. "The effort to bring this car to market is about lowering the cost while providing satisfactory performance," says Matt McClory, principal engineer of fuel-cell development for Toyota in the U.S. Toyota executives say they believe a target price around $50,000 is needed to make the cars attractive. With developments like more efficient fuel-cell stacks, higher pressure in tanks, greater range and lower cost compared with a decade ago, fuel-cell cars are getting a second look. Steven Chu, energy secretary in President Barack Obama's first term, summed it up this way: "I think automakers are saying, 'Look, hydrogen could be a long shot. But we're going to put a little bet on it, and we'll see.' " read the original article 1/26 Super
Bowl Feb 2nd, Seahawks v Bronco, should be a great game. Not into it?
Check out the Subaru sponsored Puppy Bowl X on the Animal Planet. But its not all puppies on TV anymore ... this year there's competition, the Hallmark Channel's Kitten Bowl, and Nat Geo's Fish Bowl.
Really, a fish bowl? a... fish... bowl? What, a camera pointed
at a bowl with a few goldfish and guppies in it? That's called Jumping
the Shark (pun intended)... unless all the shows get viewers, in which
case sponsors will line up next year for the Slither Bowl, Bird Bowl,
Bowl Bowl, and show with the camera pointed at people on the couch
warching the TV, the Couch Bowl...
About the Puppy Bopwl... " "Puppy Bowl" came from the Christmas airing of the yule log, and early incarnations were only a bit more elaborate than the classic video of a fireplace. But in the 10 years since Puppy Bowl's debut, it's become much more than the original continuous loop of puppies running across the screen. Now replete with penguin cheerleaders, a bird to tweet about the action and a kitten half-time show, Puppy Bowl is not only one of Animal Planet's biggest events but an interesting opportunity for advertisers looking to be part of Super Bowl Sunday. "For an advertiser who wants to get a small pop and some buzz up against the Super Bowl, it's carved out a really nice and unique niche," said David Campanelli, senior VP-director of national broadcast, Horizon Media. "And it's been really strong in social media as well, so taking advantage of that is also a nice bonus." The first Puppy Bowl aired in 2005, a 12-hour montage of wandering dogs with no commentary and no sponsor ads decorating the stadium. That was enough to get more than 5.6 million viewers to watch at some point during the telecast. Almost a decade later, the doggie extravaganza's 12-hour run is watched by an aggregate of more than 12 million people and Animal Planet has successfully sold nearly every inch of the field. In 2012, it sold the naming rights to the stadium to Geico. This year it is introducing a VIP suite, sponsored by Sheba cat food, where cats will hang out. The telecast this year has nine sponsors, up from six in 2013, and ad revenue that's up 30% from last year, said Jeff Pellegrini, VP-ad sales, Animal Planet. AT&T is the newest sponsor of the game, while Chase is expanding its presence. Subaru, Hershey, Geico, Bissell, Warner Bros., Walt Disney and Sheba owner Mars round out the list. This will be Subaru's fifth year as a sponsor of Puppy Bowl. For the automaker, the event has always been a natural fit, appealing to its customers' passion for animals, said Alan Bethke, VP-marketing, Subaru. About 70% of Subaru owners have a pet, and a large percentage of those have a dog, according to Mr. Bethke. Subaru will air four traditional ads during the "Puppy Bowl" along with custom vignettes throughout the game. It's also the sponsor of the "drive of the day" and "kiss cam" segments. "We like to partner with properties our viewers can see themselves in and there is a genuine connection," Mr. Bethke said. The new VIP suite being sponsored by Mars' Sheba will include TVs, Sheba-branded food and toys for entertainment. To take advantage of the Super Bowl's location in the New York area this year, Animal Planet will host a "Puppy Bowl" experience the week before the game at the Discovery Times Square museum and exhibition space in Manhattan. The 15,000 square-foot area will include puppies to play with, a recreated set and booths for sponsors to interact with fans. "Puppy Bowl," actually a two-hour show that plays six times, was watched by an average of 2.6 million people during its initial two-hour run in 2013, and averaged 1.1 million viewers during the Super Bowl blackout that night. Those are impressive numbers for Animal Planet, but not the largest audience it's seen. Last May's controversial faux documentary "Mermaids: The New Evidence" delivered 3.6 million viewers, a new network record. While "Puppy Bowl" has reigned as the top dog of ancillary Super Bowl programming, for the first time it will need to compete for the attention of animal lovers: Hallmark Channel and Nat Geo Wild are airing Super Bowl programming featuring kittens and a goldfish. Like its forerunner on Animal Planet, Hallmark's "Kitten Bowl" features shelter animals that are available for adoption. "Kitten Bowl," scheduled to air from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Super Bowl Sunday, will be hosted by Beth Ostrosky Stern and Yankees radio sportscaster John Sterling. A Feline Fantasy League on Facebook allows viewers collect digital interactive trading cards, read up on the "competitors" and watch a live kitten cam. (Puppy Bowl has a fantasy league too.) Nat Geo Wild will air "Fish Bowl" from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Super Bowl Sunday, when viewers can tune in to see a goldfish swim around her bowl. Neither event is expected to impact "Puppy Bowl" much more than "Puppy Bowl" impacts the Super Bowl. "Puppy Bowl was there first, it was unique and different," Mr. Campanelli said. "I don't think either will get the play that Puppy Bowl does." read the original article 1/25 its a boat, it as a car... it's both.. its the Honda powered WaterCar All it takes is a sense of 4 wheeled adventure.. and some money "Dave March takes a sip of his coffee and looks through the windshield of his car, which is idling in the water in Newport Harbor, next to his 65-foot yacht. "This has been a dream for 10, 15 years," he says, his gaze fixed toward Catalina. "Every time I see that island, I think, 'Oh, it's not that far.'" March, 58, has spent more than a decade developing the high-speed amphibious car he is about to take to market for $135,000 apiece. He has taken deposits from the Prince of Dubai, tycoons in Silicon Valley and millionaires from around the world. On this day, he hopes to prove the car's mettle by driving it from his WaterCar headquarters in Fountain Valley, Calif., to Catalina Island. The only problem is he has never tested the car on open water, and 30 miles is a long way to swim. March has been building and testing amphibious cars, or amphibians, for years. He filed patents for his first amphibian in 2003. Six years later, he set the Guinness World Record for fastest amphibious car with the Python, which has a 450-horsepower Corvette engine and can hit 60 mph on the water. The car that March is test-driving to Catalina is the Panther, a smaller, off-road amphibian that is the entrepreneurial fruit of 12 years of trial and error and hundreds of thousands of dollars in research and development. Ever since he posted a video online of the Panther driving on the freeway, scaling sand dunes and impressing scantily clad ladies at a lake, March's phone hasn't stopped ringing. The car already has been filmed in three reality shows, including an episode of the current season of "The Bachelor." He also has received a deluge of emails from buyers around the world. The embassy of the United Arab Emirates has ordered one, and Sheik Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the crown Prince of Dubai, has ordered six. Two of the most powerful men in Silicon Valley each have sent deposits — with nondisclosure agreements to prevent their names from appearing in the media. NASCAR drivers are knocking at his door. "I've got guys that are throwing money at me," March said. "It's a fun position to be in...." read the entire article. How it works 1/24
IIHS front offset crash test, mini cars do poorly. These are the
smallest cars on the market (Subaru doesn't have a mini car).
Of 11 cars tested, only the Chevy Spark earned an acceptable rating. Mazda 2, Honda Fit, Toyota Yaris and Prius C, Nissan Versa sedan, Kia Rio, Ford Fiesta, Mitsubishi Mirage, Hyundai Accent and Fiat 500 all did poorly. But these are cars are great in the city. "Only 1 minicar out of 11 tested achieves an acceptable rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's small overlap front crash test, making these tiny vehicles the worst performing group of any evaluated so far....Introduced in 2012, the small overlap test replicates what happens when the front corner of a vehicle collides with another vehicle or an object such as a tree or utility pole. In the test, 25 percent of a vehicle's front end on the driver's side strikes a rigid barrier at 40 mph. The test is more difficult than the head-on crashes conducted by the government or the longstanding IIHS moderate overlap test because most of the vehicle's front-end crush zone is bypassed. That makes it hard for the vehicle to manage crash energy, and the occupant compartment can collapse as a result. Nevertheless, in many size categories, manufacturers have found ways to improve vehicle structures to meet this challenge. "Small, lightweight vehicles have an inherent safety disadvantage. That's why it's even more important to choose one with the best occupant protection," says Joe Nolan, IIHS senior vice president for vehicle research. "Unfortunately, as a group, minicars aren't performing as well as other vehicle categories in the small overlap crash." In contrast to the minicar group's performance, most models in the small car category, which are a little larger, have done much better in the test. There are five good ratings and five acceptable ratings among 17 small cars that have been evaluated so far." read the entire article Note Subaru's Impreza is in the IIHS's Small Car category (small cars are larger than mini cars) and has earned a Top Safety Pick rating. More on the 2014 Impreza here. 1/23 2nd generation Eyesight upgrades... some really good upgrades coming on 2015 models. It will work up to up to 30mph speed difference (a 5mph increase), recognizes brake lights, and with new rear radar sensors includes side blind spot detection, 230ft side vehicle approaching detection, rear cross traffic vehicle detection. "Subaru of America, Inc. has announced the debut of a new and improved version of its popular EyeSight™ driver assistance system. The new system now features color stereo cameras that deliver an approximately 40 percent longer and wider detection range, brake light detection and can now fully function when the speed differential between the Eyesight equipped car and another vehicle is up to 30 mph, up from 19 mph. The current generation Eyesight system earned the highest rating given by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS), superior, when the IIHS conducted it first test of accident avoidance technology last year. Combining safety and convenience features, the Subaru EyeSight system is one of the most affordable crash avoidance technologies available in the U.S. market. On sale for almost two years in the U.S. the system has been widely praised by safety experts and customers. Research shows that nine out of ten Subaru customers who purchased the EyeSight system would recommend it and more than half say that the system has helped avoid an accident. Also debuting in Subaru models later this year are three additional technologies; blind spot detection, lane change assist and rear cross traffic alert. These new systems will be introduced on Subaru's product line-up starting in 2014. Eyesight Features The new Eyesight uses two color cameras developed by Subaru and functions more smoothly and has a quicker reaction time. EyeSight is mounted inside the car on the upper edge of the windshield and the housing for the new Eyesight system has been made 15 percent smaller. Locating the system within the vehicle reduces the potential for damage that could occur in bumper-mounted systems. 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. EyeSight is also 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. The Eyesight system integrates adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking and vehicle lane departure warning. At relative speeds under 30 mph, EyeSight's Pre-Collision Braking System can detect vehicles in the car's path and, if the driver has not applied the brake, 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 as a second set of eyes for the driver. It can also be turned off temporarily for off-road or rough road travel. Lane departure warning monitors traffic lane markers and lines and can detect if the car begins to wander outside the intended lane without a turn signal being used, or begins to sway within the travel lane. Using the turn signal cancels the warning. Adaptive Cruise Control is intended for freeway use and can maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front, braking or accelerating the car to maintain the driver-selected target speed and traveling distance. Adaptive Cruise Control operates from 1-90 mph and can fully bring the vehicle to a stop if the system "locks on" to a vehicle ahead. As an added convenience, Adaptive Cruise Control assists the driver in "stop and go" traffic by maintaining distance from the vehicle ahead. New Technologies for 2015 Model Year Blind Spot Detection This driver assistance technology senses cars coming up in the vehicle's blind spot and if the turn signal is on, it alerts the driver not to change lanes. The driver is warned by a flashing light on the side view mirror and the alert stays active until the car in the adjacent lane is in view. Subaru BSD uses radar sensors on the side and rear of the car. Lane Change Assist The lane changes assist system warns the driver of a fast approaching vehicle on either side of the car. It only flashes an alert in the side view mirror when the turn signal is engaged and has a range of 230 ft. Rear Cross Traffic Alert Rear cross traffic alert uses rear facing radar to detect vehicles approaching from behind on either side of the vehicle such as when reversing out of a parking space at the mall. The radar sweeps 230 feet on either side of the vehicle to detect an approaching vehicle and triggers a warning light on the dash. The system can also detect cars up to 23 ft behind the vehicle." read the press release 1/20 The USAC U.S. auto club) tested 4 all wheel drives, the Ford Escape, Toyota Rav, Honda CRV, and the Forester. Which was the best? Its no surprise.... "The United States Auto Club tests the stability, traction and control of the 2014 Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, Ford Escape, Toyota RAV4, and Mazda CX-5. Which one comes out on top? They tested these popular mid-size SUVs to see how each reacted to adverse driving situations like an evasive lane change on a dry course. They tested the stability, traction and control of each SUV. The professional drivers conducted the test to see how each of the top five small all-wheel-drive crossovers were able to handle unpredictable situations on the road. The USAC drivers drove each mid-size SUV and performed a series of runs on a dry surface. Each test driver drove through the obstacles on the course and increased speed with each run to determine which vehicle could navigate the course in the fastest time without hitting any obstacles. They started with the Ford Escape. One driver said, “Well it felt like it kicked in a little bit on the front wheels, almost felt like the front wheels would come up off the ground.” Another said, “Okay I’m not happy with the Ford. The Honda CR-V was next which slid through the course and wiped out one of the obstacles. The Toyota RAV4 ran through the course and the driver said, “Its under-steering terribly, and I didn’t feel the traction control kick in. And the car is talking to me, it must have said that it can't do that anymore.” The Mazda CX-5 was next up and the whole back end of the car just started to swing right out. “That’s what we call oversteer.” Next up was the 2014 Subaru Forester which went through at increasing speeds without mishap. “Here we go now we're talking, that was good. It was totally controllable.” The driver said after taking it through the course. The Forester stayed in total control even at forty mph. The driver said all you have to do is trust the car and it will perform. When the final analysis was in, the Subaru Forester outperformed all the other vehicles. The USAC test showed the Forster finished first, followed by the Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape and Honda CR-V. Subaru with its Symmetrical all-wheel-drive and traction control worked better than all the other popular mid-size SUVs on the market.Subaru has created a niche market with their multi-use all-wheel-drive vehicles and have been developed this kind of stability, traction and control over the years. They designed the all-new 2014 Forester with all these features. I guess driving a Subaru does give you “peace of mind.” read the original article 1/17 Subaru's huge growth the past few years is based on capturing many new, first time buyers. Now the goal is to keep them happy. These are people who jumped ship from Toyota, Honda, Kia, Ford etc. With Subaru currently producing at capacity, some models are consistently in short supply so continuing to focus on growth isn't a good idea if there already aren't enough cars. According to President Tom Doll, Subaru is going to shift focus to service and keeping all these new Subaru owners happy happy happy. "Our challenge over the next couple years is to make sure we have the necessary service capacity -- the lifts, service bays, technicians, better waiting rooms and loaner cars so that when customers so come in for service we have everything in place back to handle them," says Subaru of America President Tom Doll says. Subaru of America sales will likely grow to 500,000 units by 2016 as the brand adds capacity at its only U.S. plant, said company President Tom Doll. Subaru has been one of the fastest growing brands in the United States during the past five years. Sales last year jumped 26 percent to 424,683 vehicles. Speaking at the Automotive News World Congress today, Doll said Subaru will "have to moderate that growth." Subaru will focus on improving its customer service and dealer service capacity, he said. "We have sold so many cars we do not have the service structure at our retailers to handle all the vehicles coming back." "Our challenge over the next couple years is to make sure we have the necessary service capacity -- the lifts, service bays, technicians, better waiting rooms and loaner cars so that when customers so come in for service we have everything in place back to handle them," Doll said. Subaru expects its sales to grow 6 percent to 8 percent in 2014 to 450,000 or 460,000 units and perhaps another 7 percent to 8 percent annually the next year, he said. Subaru does not need another factory in the United States and is expanding the capacity of its plant in Lafayette, Ind., by 100,000 units to 300,000 by 2016. The plant, which makes the Outback and Tribeca crossovers and the Legacy sedan, will also produce the Impreza four- and five-door compact. Doll said Subaru will have a battery-electric car by 2018 to meet stringent regulations in California. Late last year, Subaru's first hybrid, the XV Crosstrek Hybrid, went on sale. Doll said Subaru will replace its Tribeca crossover, with a true seven-seat vehicle but did not give a timetable. "We are working on it." Subaru is not developing that vehicle jointly with its partner Toyota Motor Co., he said." read the original article 1/16 Deep Indigo Pearl has been discontinued on 2014 Outback and Legacy 1/10 advertising that is remembered years later... starring Paul Hogan, Lance Armstrong (the hero that wasn't), and Martina Mavratilova... "Whats with Lesbians and Subarus...When Saturday Night Live’s Kate McKinnon channeled Billie Jean King on the Dec. 21 “Weekend Update” segment right after King was named to the official U.S. delegation to the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics, the tennis great declared herself “President Obama’s big gay middle finger” to Vladimir Putin. She then promised to “drive my Subaru Outback into Red Square, doing doughnuts and blasting Melissa Etheridge.” We all know that Melissa Etheridge is a lesbian singer-songwriter, but why are Subarus so closely associated with lesbians? Some would like to think that there’s some special Sapphic significance in the name, since Subaru is Japanese for Seven Sisters—albeit in the sense of the Pleiades rather than historically women’s colleges. In fact, though, the car company’s place in the roster of the righteous among the LGBTQ nations is a result of some very canny niche marketing. Subaru is by no means the only car company to target gay and lesbian buyers—in fact, Saab was the first to advertise in the gay press, back in 1994—but it is arguably the most high-profile and has waged the most sustained campaign for the pink dollar. Subaru was one of three charter sponsors when the gay-themed TV channel Logo launched in 2005, and the company has gained recognition for “gay-coded” ad campaigns, including one that featured custom license plates like "XENA-LVR," "P-TOWN," and "CAMP OUT." Those ads weren’t targeted exclusively at lesbians, however. The "Lesbaru" connection seems to have been cemented when Subaru featured out tennis player Martina Navratilova in a 2001 campaign. Then in 2004, the company supported a another lesbian tennis player: Dana Fairbanks of Showtime’s The L Word. When the fictional Fairbanks was forced out of the closet, the show’s storyline had the real car company rolling out a campaign with the slogan, “Get Out. And Stay Out.” According to Subaru’s research, lesbians are "four times as likely as their heterosexual counterparts to own a Subaru." But what kind of Subaru? NPR’s Car Talk found the Outback to be the No. 1 car among lesbians, with the Forester coming in second." read the original article 1/10 Subaru diesel in a hybrid Humvee replacement? "The military has been studying the implementation of alternative drivetrains for years, a tiny sampling of which includes the diesel-electric hybrid technical hauler and L-ATV from Oshkosh Defense and the Aggressor from Quantum Technologies. There was also ADA Technologies' work with ultracapitors, General Motors' focus on fuel cells and the roll out of electric motorcycles for Special Forces. In the Ultra Light Vehicle (ULV) prototype vehicle pictured above, we have the latest developments in the Department of Defense's hybrid interest combined with a need to develop a lightweight replacement for the AM General Humvee. In 2010 the Office of the Secretary of Defense put the Army's Tank Automotive Research, Development, and Engineering Center (TARDEC) in charge of developing a personnel carrier that could "balance payload, performance and protection," and do so without exorbitant cost. Armored Humvees can weigh more than seven tons, and while the ULV is just under 14,000 pounds, the new vehicle can do a lot more with its weight. The Subaru turbodiesel under the hood puts out 175 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. That's not much for pulling 13,916 pounds, so it's assisted by two Remy 410HVH HT electric motors each capable of adding 268 continuous hp and 369 peak hp, along with 844 lb-ft of continuous torque or 1,221 ft-lbs at peak. They're only limited by the 14.2 kWh lithium-ion battery rated at 65 kW of continuous power and 180 kW of peak power, but still, TARDEC says the ULV can do 21 miles on electric power and on the flats has a combined range of 337 miles at 35 mph. It's Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) design protects occupants - as does the lack of a driveshaft - it has 18 inches of suspension travel, can traverse a 40-percent slope, climb an 18-inch step and climb a 60-percent incline. If it meets OSD specs it will also cost no more than $250,000. It's a long way from going into service, but it has entered ballistic and explosive testing and, assuming it passes the tests, it will move on the next phase. There's a clip of it in action in the video below, or head to the TARDEC site for a thorough spec-sheet rundown." read the original article 1/8 STI. The redesigned 2015 STI's long awaited, highly anticipated official debut is scheduled for next week at NAIAS in Detroit but its getting harder and harder to keep a secret anyplace these days. Here are some early, supposedly leaked images of the STI that pretty much look like brochure photos. http://es.autoblog.com/photos/subaru-wrx-sti/2135400/  1/7 SVX. Every so often, someone writes an article about the SVX (b 1991, d 1997). This is the story about the SVX but it could also be about the Baja (b 2002, d 2006). The SVX is a car with more of a following now as a sexy curiosity for car writers than it once had as a car to purchase. But from 1997 to around 2005 (ie right after you couldn't buy a new one) the following was cultishly strong, and good, near new ones sold for a lot of money. This is pretty similar to the Baja's story, where once they weren't available new anymore, demand increased. Even now, a survivor SVX would sell, depending on condition of course, to someone who wants to drive a footnote many people won't recognize. The early ones (92, 93) were known to have transmission issues, and the later ones just plain cost too much money, topping out at $37000. And working on them was always expensive. But they really were great all-wheel-drive cruisers, very solid and comfortable, the 3.3L 6 cylinder was strong, and the look (its always the look with the SVX) was eye-catching. here's an article from John Voelker "The Subaru SVX was the quirky Japanese brand's last attempt at a grand touring coupe, nominally replacing the previous XT coupe and running from its launch as a 1992 model through the 1997 model year. It was Subaru's first entry into a more luxurious sector, but its unusual looks and the unlikely combination of the unpretentious, rugged, robust brand with a stylish premium coupe meant that it never found huge success in the U.S. market. On its launch in 1991, the Subaru SVX retained much of the styling of a 1989 concept car styled by famed Italian designer Giorgetto Giugiaro of ItalDesign. Most notably, it retained the canopy-style windscreen and front window design. While the SVX--it stood for "Subaru Vehicle X"--had conventional front doors, the window glass was fixed, with a smaller inset opening window covering about two thirds of the glass, to enable drivers to pay tolls and receive items from drive-through windows. The line dividing the two pieces of the window followed the angles of the upper door frame and windshield pillar--a design flourish usually seen on only the most exotic of supercars, often with gullwing or scissor doors. Mechanically, the SVX used a single engine, a 3.3-liter flat-six producing 231 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. It powered the wheels through a four-speed automatic transmission. Subaru's characteristic all-wheel drive delivered power to all four wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was quoted as 7.3 seconds, with a top speed of 150 mph or more. Fuel economy was rated at 18 mpg combined (15 mpg city, 22 mpg highway). While the SVX was lauded for its handling and roadholding by reviewers, it acceleration was only considered average. More troubling, it wasn't at all clear what it competed against. On paper, the closest vehicle may have been the Mitsubishi 3000GT, with its far more powerful V-6 but also offering all-wheel drive as a standard feature. The Subaru SVX was offered in three trim levels: the base L, the mid-range LS, and the top-of-the-line LS-L (later the LSi), which included leather upholstery, a tiling and sliding sunroof, and eight-way adjustable front seats. An optional rear spoiler was made standard in 1993. Starting at a price of $24,500 in 1992, the SVX was by far the most expensive car in the otherwise mass-market Subaru lineup--fully 50 percent pricier, in fact. It also suffered from being launched into the recession of the early 1990s. The top-of-the-line model, priced at $28,000 in 1992, had soared above $36,000 by the end of the model run. To offer a lower entry price, a version with only front-wheel drive was offered during 1994 and 1995, though few were sold. Through seven model years, total SVX sales in the U.S. totaled slightly more than 14,000 altogether." read the original article 1/7 new interest rates announced for January.
A few highlights new 2014 Outback 0% x 24-36 mos, 0.90%x4-60-63, and also lower lease payments depending on model new 2014 Impreza 1.90% x 24-36-48mos, and also lower lease payments new 2013 BRZ 0.90% now to 72 months all rates 1/5 from Spokane's HKQ channel 6 12/30/13, an upside down Subaru and everyone was ok "Late Monday morning emergency crews responded to a rollover crash on Spokane's South Hill in the 4500 block of S. Scott. No serious injuries have been reported...." the original article 
1/4 What is the future for Subaru, where do they go from here? 26% growth 2 years in a row is phenominal. Subaru is already tempering 2014 expecations with a small (for Subaru) 8% increase. 2013 was not Subaru's first year with major growth but it was the year they broke into mainstream car buyer's awareness. Subaru is now 2.8% of the US market. More people are taking a first look at Subaru than ever before. The accolades continue with the Forester, Crosstrek, Outback all getting mostly rave reviews. Foresters are selling faster than Subaru can ship them and people who ordered are waiting more than 3 months for cars that should be readily available, if Subaru could produce enough of them that is. Will Subaru follow Volvo's path? Back in the 70s/80s, Volvo was the car people thought of for safety. With their boxy but safe ad campaign, Volvo built strong, durable and safe cars that people still want even 25 years later for their young drivers. After all, if you're picking a budget car that could be in an accident, a 1980s Volvo wagon would be a good choice. And then Volvo started to get fancier and more technologically advanced and the price went up and the quality dropped. Volvo is now a Chinese owned company. Subarus dilemma is to continue growth by gaining new buyers who previously drove other makes while maintaining the loyalty of the core group of Subaru fans that got the company where it is today. And those buyers are not looking for high dollar cars but they do expect safe. And unfashionably stodgy is ok. from Bloomberg on Subaru's growth "Subaru, the auto unit of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (7270), added the most U.S. market share of any foreign carmaker last year as the brand long known for quirky all-wheel-drive vehicles continued to win more mass-market fans. A revamped Forester crossover and new XV Crosstrek wagon helped boost annual U.S. sales for the unit of Tokyo-based Fuji 26 percent, matching 2012’s gain and ending 2013 with a record 424,683 deliveries. Subaru’s market share rose 0.4 percentage point to 2.7 percent, an improvement topped only by Ford Motor Co. 0.45 point increase, according to Autodata Corp. “Subaru is still somewhat out of the mainstream, but they’re at that crossroad where they have to decide which direction they want to go,” said Alec Gutierrez, an analyst at Kelley Blue Book in Irvine, California. “Do they keep a kind of cult status or go further into the mainstream?” Subaru benefited as U.S. auto sales grew 7.6 percent last year to 15.6 million cars and light trucks, the most since 2007. A strengthening U.S. economy and improving job market have led automakers and analysts to forecast further growth in auto deliveries to at least 16 million new vehicles this year. The automaker’s sales gained 9.6 percent to 40,172 in December. Combined U.S. sales of Japanese and Korean autos grew 1.2 percent in December and 6.6 percent for the year." read the original article 1/3 December sales and 2013 grand totals For the year, Subaru sold 424,683 cars, a healthy increase of 26% over 336,441 cars sold in 2012. Coincidentally, 2012s total was also 26% over 2011's total of 266,989. 2013 totals by model Forester 123,592, a whopping 62% increase over 2012s 76,347 Outback 118,049, 496 cars over 2012s 117,553 Impreza 58,856, down 14% from 2012s 68,175 Crosstrek 53,741, the first full years of sales, up 627% from the 2012s total of 7396. The Crosstrek was introduced September 2012 Legacy 42,291, down 10% from 2012s 47127 WRX, STI 17,969, up 32% over 201s13,624 BRZ 8587 for the first full year of sales. The BRZ was introduced March 2012, and sold 4144 that year Tribeca 1598 for what is expected to be the final full year of sales since Subaru announced production has stopped and the model discontinued. In 2012 there were 2075 Tribeca's sold. December 2013 totals by model Forester 13,229 up 51% over 8764 for 2012 Outback 11,002 down 9% from 12072 in 2012 Impreza 4949 down 16% from 58623 in 2012 Crosstrek 5525, up 62% December 2012's 2409 total WRX, STI 1680, 38 cars over 2012's 1642 cars BRZ 705, up 208 cars, 42% over December 2012s 497 Tribeca 143, down from December 2012's total 189 1/2/14 2014 STI will be shown at Detroit's North American International Auto Show 1/13-17 www.NAIAS.com January 2, 2014. The 6th Share the Love ending Subaru donated $250 per car purchased from 11/21 to 1/2 to the buyer's choice of ASPCA, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Meals On Wheels, National Park Foundation, Teach For America, and a 6th dealer selected charity. The total donated this year will be $10,000,000, for a total of $35m over the past 6 years. The first 5 Share the Love event donations was $5m per year. 12/2113 just in time for christmas- a free Subaru "Subaru plans to give two Dallas teenagers 2014 Forester crossovers in recognition of their bravery in helping to save a kidnapping victim earlier this year. Aaron Arias, 19, and Jamal Harris, 17, will receive the Subarus at a ceremony Thursday afternoon at Sewell Subaru in Dallas. The Foresters have a base price of about $22,000 each. Earlier this year, the young men were at an intersection and noticed a distressed-looking woman in the back seat of a vehicle. The victim, who was not identified, mouthed “help me.” Arias and Harris called 911 and followed the car until police arrived and stopped the vehicle, arresting the suspect." the original article 12/17/13 BRZ review and why its cooler than the FR-S "Why the Subaru BRZ is $3K Better than the Scion FR-S. I love both the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ. And when I was in the market for a new car about three months ago, the two were on my short list (along with the likes of the Focus ST and Veloster Turbo). But I came to a crossroads when deciding which new car would be sitting pretty in my driveway for the next few years or so — Scion FR-S or Subaru BRZ. I chose the more expensive BRZ (about $30K sticker price), and yes, I am ragged on constantly as my buddies ask me how the “FR-S” is treating me. Very funny. But why is the Subaru BRZ just plain ol’ better than the FR-S? Here’s why: Inside and out, the average consumer has a very difficult time telling both of these cars apart. But any well-versed enthusiast (like myself) will give you every single specific difference and detail until they’re blue in the face. With the BRZ, the front end is cleaner, arguably meaner looking, and more refined. In the back, you get a sharper factory spoiler. And on the sides, Subaru does away with the “86″ badge for obvious reasons. Inside it’s much of the same. Alcantara seats coat the BRZ compared to the cloth of the FR-S. And while I can undoubtedly admit the infotainment system on the FR-S is leaps and bounds ahead of the the BRZ’s Pioneer system, the BRZ has much more detail elsewhere. It’s just a better experience. Ok, so I’ve driven both of these cars and I can tell you that they are phenomenally fun. For a lot of you, choosing between the two is quite difficult. But here’s the thing: the FR-S — while driftier on the track — is almost actually uncomfortable on the open road. That was really my only gripe with the car, the suspension is pretty harsh in comparison. The BRZ on the other hand — while not necessarily as drifty, but still capable enough — is tweaked a wee bit softer for everyday use. It’s not as spine jarring as its Scion counterpart, and that’s a very good thing. Growing up as a product of the 90s, my hero cars weren’t from Maranello, but rather, lands further East. The Supra, the Evo, the NSX — proper Japanese sportscars. So, when Toyota announced that its sporty car would live on through the millennial generation, I was happier than a kitten with a q-tip. The Supra/Celica was born again. And then Scion stepped in. Oh dear god why Scion? It’s not a brand as much as it is a moneymaking tool for Toyota aimed at buyers like myself (teens to late 20s). It’s hip, it’s cool, it’s new — but it doesn’t do a damn thing for me in terms of relatability or history. And yes, that actually matters. Subaru, on the other hand, is a brand that has a very positive reputation amongst the younger crowd. The WRX and STI are phenomenally great, and the BRZ lived up to that great reputation through the badge. So, is the Subaru BRZ $3K (or so) better than the FR-S? Absolutely. The Scion FR-S — as amazing as it is — is still too brash for some Americans. Of course, they’re both still selling like hot cakes, and will continue to, but if you have the extra scratch, the BRZ is the way to go." read the original article 12/15 Impreza review "The Subaru Impreza 2.0i PZEV is one of the best, most affordable, most reliable compact sedans available. It just needs some sound deadening and cosmetic updating. The engine whined. It sounded like a small child trying to con a parent — with a cry not quite a cry, but a persistent noise created to irritate: Wha-a-a, wha-a-a-a, wha-a-a-a-a! Seeking relief, I turned on the radio in the 2014 Subaru Impreza 2.0i PZEV. But the sound coming from the Impreza’s speakers was so static-prone and monotone — below the quality of anything in a comparable Honda, Hyundai or Kia — it reminded me of the woefully quirky sound reproduction in a 1950s Motorola car radio. Yes, I’ve lived that long, which is why I was able to overlook the Impreza’s little demons in favor of the compact car’s much larger angels. The Impreza 2.0i PZEV is a good automobile — well built, faithfully reliable and actually fun to drive — the latter quality attributable largely to Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which is standard on the Impreza and most other Subaru vehicles. The all-wheel-drive system is one of the best ever, certainly on small economy cars. It is what sets the Impreza above the rest of its rivals in the compact segment. Symmetrical all-wheel drive simultaneously sends power to all four wheels. When one set of wheels slips — for example, in snow or rain — more power automatically flows to the gripping wheels. Subaru has been perfecting that system for the past 40 years, and it now works wonderfully well. The effect invites cliche. The car sticks to the road in weather fair or foul. It handles with confidence. It provides a peace of mind not undermined by the engine’s wha-a-a, wha-a-a-a. I suspect that the engine’s noise is more attributable to Subaru’s skimping on sound-deadening materials than it is to the engine itself. It is a spunky, gasoline-fueled machine — four cylinders horizontally opposed, a “boxer” engine in automobile industry parlance. It produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, delivered with enough chutzpah to get you up and down hills and pull you along mountain roads problem-free. It is mounted low enough in the engine bay to enhance the Impreza’s center of gravity, greatly helping the car’s balance on the road. And it gets a very decent, for an all-wheel-drive car, 27 miles per gallon in the city and up to 36 mpg on the highway using regular gasoline. It’s just so darned noisy, and that’s too bad. Subaru’s competition in the small-car league is catching up quickly. South Korean automobile manufacturers Hyundai and Kia, both of which also have U.S. plants, are keen on turning their small cars into motorized jewels — eliminating such buyer disincentives as engine noise and another Subaru irritant: sturdy but dowdy vehicle interiors. I think the real problem here is Subaru’s parent company, Japan’s Fuji Heavy Industries. FHI makes a lot of things other than Subaru vehicles — attack helicopters, jet aircraft, myriad industrial products of all sorts. The company has a heavy-industry mind-set, which shows up pitifully in the interiors of too many Subaru automobiles. Here’s a hint to FHI: Check out your Japanese brethren at Toyota. That rival company is beginning to put color into the interiors of its cars. It is experimenting with different material textures and things such as interior ambient light. It is what you heavy-industry types might call silly stuff. But it is silly stuff that attracts buyers, which is one of the reasons Toyota outsells Subaru in the United States. It doesn’t have to be that way, FHI. Consider that you are making automobiles, not tanks. Car buyers demand comforts and something that at least approaches beauty. Subaru has the best practical cars and crossover-utility vehicles in the world. But “practical” isn’t everything. Sex sells. Check out your U.S. sales numbers and you’ll see that I’m right." read the original article 12/9 Subarus are selling and some models, like Foresters or Crosstreks for example, are in short supply everywhere. Some models are almost always going to be in short supply- the Hybrid, WRX, Forester XT for example. But currently Subaru is having trouble supplying all Impreza and Crosstrek models, Forester 2.5s, and even Legacys. Some shortages will be regional, other national. Subarus sell quickly these days and people are putting deposits on incoming cars. An incoming car has an ETA (Estimated Time of Arrival). ETA dates change frequently, even by a month or more. There are 2 ETAs- either a specific date or a vague "month of..." . 'Month of ETAs eventually get a specific date, and even then the car sometimes arrives early or late. Thats the 'Estimated' part. Unfortunately a side effect of Subaru's huge increase in sales is that many more cars are moving through the system than before and people are waiting longer and longer for some models. And Subaru is not able to accurately update ETAs which means dealers can't keep customers informed on when their car might actually arrive. So if you're waiting for a car and your salesperson can't tell you where the car is in the process or when its going to come in, that's because Subaru won't release the information. 12/8/13 2015 WRX 12 page mini pamphlet now at dealers. photos here 12/7/13 Subaru has fun with the pogo-stick of the future with their eyesight system, and then makes a fun video. For their LA Auto Show Design Challenge entry, Subaru's Global Design Team had fun. They came up with the concept for a kangaroo body kit that combines Iron Man with Pixar's Luxo Jr. on a super pogo-stick. Watch Subaru's video "The innovative, affordable and fun personal mobility vehicle from Subaru’s designers was created to change the man-vehicle relationship in a revolutionary way. The “SUBA-ROO” is a one-legged, self-contained, wearable mobility vehicle with a propulsion method which mimics the efficient yet powerful jumping motions of a kangaroo. With the SUBA-ROO’s all-road, go anywhere capability and Subaru’s Eye-Sight safety system, the path to your destination is unlimited. On the road, a trail, a beach, or in a building, SUBA-ROO will widen the boundaries of mobility and bring back the joy of personally mobility for everyone to enjoy." LA auto show webpage > And a good article on it.... "If you think Subaru is just a small niche automaker who doesn't have global aspirations, their Global Design Team will make you think again. They were inspired by the unique motion dynamics of a kangaroo and came up with something remarkable. For the "LA Auto Show Design Challenge", the Subaru global design team came up with the "SUBA-ROO" personal mobility vehicle presentation. The competition was based on the theme of "Biomimicry and Mobility 2025". Now that will get any design team motivated to be creative. And they decided to mimic the unique motion dynamics of the Australian kangaroo.Subaru's Global Design Team says the wearable mobility vehicle was created to be "fun, safe and capable in all-road conditions." Right now it's still a future imaginary vehicle called the "SUBA-ROO." But could this really be something that will be available in the year 2025? With the advent of the powered exoskeleton, also known as powered armor developed for the military, the production of such a device may not be that far fetched. The exoskeleton is a mobile machine consisting primarily of an outer framework similar to an insect's skin but worn by a person. It's powered system of motors or hydraulics that delivers at least part of the energy for limb movement. It's primary purpose is to boost the strength and endurance of the wearer. There are already working prototypes for military and civilian use. But various problems remain to be solved, the most daunting task is developing a compact power supply powerful enough to allow an exoskeleton to operate for extended periods without being plugged into an external power supply. Although it's still in its infancy, that's where Subaru can come in and develop the power needed to sustain the yet fictional "SUBA-ROO" active personal mobility vehicle. With the help of Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru, it could be a real possibility. Subaru says the innovative, affordable and fun personal mobility vehicle from Subaru’s designers was created to change the man-vehicle relationship in a revolutionary way. The “SUBA-ROO” is a one-legged, self-contained, wearable mobility vehicle with a propulsion method which mimics the efficient yet powerful jumping motions of a kangaroo. And it certainly fits into the Subaru lineup of off-road vehicles and the niche market they have created. The SUBA-ROO has an all-road, go anywhere capability that will take the wearer anywhere they want to go. Just like the Current lineup of cars, this personal device will be ready for the road, a trail, a beach, or even inside a building. The possibilities are virtually unlimited for the SUBA-ROO. Subaru says it will "widen the boundaries of mobility and bring back the joy of personally mobility for everyone to enjoy." Subaru is a conservative company when it comes to staying with their core values of building multi-use vehicles with weekday practicality and weekend utility. The futuristic SUBA-ROO would fit into their linup well. It could be a real possibility after all." the original article with video If you think Subaru is just a small niche automaker who doesn't have global aspirations, their Global Design Team will make you think again. They were inspired by the unique motion dynamics of a kangaroo and came up with something remarkable. For the "LA Auto Show Design Challenge", the Subaru global design team came up with the "SUBA-ROO" personal mobility vehicle presentation. The competition was based on the theme of "Biomimicry and Mobility 2025". Now that will get any design team motivated to be creative. And they decided to mimic the unique motion dynamics of the Australian kangaroo. Subaru's Global Design Team says the wearable mobility vehicle was created to be "fun, safe and capable in all-road conditions." Right now it's still a future imaginary vehicle called the "SUBA-ROO." But could this really be something that will be available in the year 2025? - See more at: http://www.torquenews.com/1084/meet-subarus-personal-mobility-vehicle-called-suba-roo-video#sthash.6zEXMqK0.dpuf12/6 some early 2015 WRX photos from the LA auto show 12/5/13 FINAL DAY FOR 2014 FORESTER ORDERS 12/4/13 Forester orders cut off tomorrow, they end Thursday 12/5! This is really early. And only one days notice isn't enough. If you want a specific car, tomorrow is the final day to order it. This means production is filled through the end of the 14 model run and they don't want new special orders entering the system. 2015 orders will be available in March (no changes announced yet) 12/3/13 November 2013 sales total 36,621. That's 8,415 cars more than November 2012's 28,206 YTD sales 384,411. Subaru hopes to blast through the 400,000 total number on their way to 415,000+ total sales for 2013. Outback 8,852, down 13% from 10,124 11/12 Forester 13,410, up 135% over 5,703 11/12 Crosstrek 5,311, up 158% over 2,060 11/12 Impreza 3,767, down 17% from 4,552 11/12 Legacy 2,911, down 22% from 3,723 11/12 WRX/STI 1,507, up 11% over 1,353 11/12 BRZ 756, up 43% over 527 11/12 Tribeca 107, down 35% from 164 11/12 11/26 car sales get political "A Cadillac Subaru dealership fired a salesman for refusing to attend presentations urging employees not to vote for President Obama because of the Affordable Care Act, the fired salesman claims in court. Dietrich Seney sued Renick Cadillac Subaru, in Orange County Court. Seney claims he was a Subaru salesman for more that 2½ years before he was fired just days before the Nov. 6, 2012 presidential election. Seney claims the dealership made him attend a "mandatory" meeting on his day off in late October 2012, under the pretext it would be about health insurance and filing taxes. Seney claims the presentation "had nothing to do" with employee taxes, but was a jeremiad against Obamacare, hosted by a corporate insurance broker. "The presentation put 'Obamacare' in a very negative light and the presenter said that one of the big problems was that it was passed by only one party, the Democrats," the lawsuit states. "The last line of the very last slide that was presented to the employee and Seney stated that the outcome of the 2012 election would have a huge impact on whether or not all of the changes (rate increases) would take effect. The message at the meeting was very clear: Vote for Obama and your health care costs will be higher." Seney claims the dealership's vice president James Renick attached an anti-Obama message to workers' paychecks two weeks before the meeting. When a "very upset" Seney complained to the dealership's general manager, (nonparty) Sherry Hosmer, she shrugged off his complaints, telling him it was "Obama's fault that the rates were going to increase, so she didn't see a problem with the presentation," Seney says in the complaint. Seney says he was fired on Nov. 1, 2012, after he told Hosmer he would not attend "politically motivated," meetings on his day off. He demands lost wages and benefits and damages for wrongful firing, Labor Code violations, discrimination and pain and suffering. He is represented by Andrew Jones with Wagner, Jones, Kopfman & Artenian, of Fresno. Renick Cadillac did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment." read the original article 11/24 Walkers Renton Subaru moved into a new building at 555 SW Grady Way, Renton, Wa 98058 Their old building was at 720 Rainier Ave S, Renton, Wa, 98055 on 11/21/13 11/22/13 Crosstrek/Crosstrek Hybrid and Impreza brochures now at dealers 11/19/13 SIA storm damaged "The severe storms that rolled through the Midwest over the weekend caused damage to the Subaru plant in Lafayette, Ind. -- the only Subaru assembly plant in the United States -- and interrupted production there for at least a day. The plant manufactures the Subaru Outback, Legacy and Tribeca. It also produces the Toyota Camry, the top-selling car in the United States. It plans to add Impreza production in the future. "We believe that it was a tornado that did damage to our plant due to the amount of uprooted trees and other damage," Tom Easterday, vice president of Subaru of Indiana Inc., said in a voice message left with Automotive News today. "The plant itself suffered damage to the roof, glass, some blown debris and sustained water damage. Operations have been cancelled for today, but we hope to have things up and running tomorrow or the next day." Damage to the plant is bad news for Subaru, which was already facing capacity constraints in the United States. The company is in talks to end production of the Camry at the plant so it can focus on keeping up with booming sales of Subarus. Subaru needs more capacity as it aims for annual U.S. sales of 500,000 units by 2016. That would be up from an estimated 420,000 units expected to be sold this year. The Indiana plant has capacity for about 170,000 Subaru vehicles a year, and the company hopes to expand production to about 300,000 units by the end of 2016, Subaru said. It is expected that discontinuing production of the Camry would free up 100,000 units of addional capacity. Yasuyuki Yoshinaga, president of Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries, recently told Automotive News that he thinks "capacity is the only risk" Subaru faces in the United States. Through October, U.S. sales of Subarus rose 28 percent to 347,890 units, in a market that was up 8 percent. That put the brand ahead of Volkswagen, Mercedes-Benz and Chrysler. Subaru is on pace for its fifth consecutive year setting a U.S. sales record." read the original article Update Subara of Indiana Inc. said full production resumed at its plant in Lafayette, Ind., today after damage from severe storms this weekend disrupted operations on Monday. Photos from the scene showed significant damage to Subaru's only U.S. plant, but it appears to have been limited to the lobby area and other non-essential operations. "There was quite a bit of damage, and the roof came off, but only in the 'vehicle evaluation station,' where we inspect the vehicles for quality," Subaru of Indiana spokeswoman Jennifer McGarvey said. "The area that is damaged is not essential and first shift reported on time. You can hear a lot of vacuum cleaners in the background though." Indiana Gov. Mike Pence had toured the damaged plant on Monday." read the original article 11/15/13 The service dept is the next area of growth "Subaru boss Yasuyuki Yoshinaga, worried that customer service is being swamped by the brand's sales boom, is pushing U.S. dealers to upgrade to keep new conquest buyers loyal. The brand's U.S. operations introduced a new service improvement program Nov. 1 aimed at expanding after-service in line with the company's breakneck growth, Yoshinaga said. "We are enjoying growing sales, so that means we are getting new customers from our competitors," he said in an interview Monday at the global headquarters Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., the parent company of Subaru. "It of the utmost importance that the service structure keeps them within the Subaru brand," he said. "Our expansion was so rapid, this is one of our challenges. The service expansion can't keep up with the sales themselves." Subaru is on pace for its fifth straight year of record U.S. sales, and Yoshinaga expects another record year in 2014. Volume surged 28 percent to 347,890 vehicles through October, and Subaru is targeting sales of 420,000 for the year. Last year, the company sold 336,441 vehicles. That total marked a 26 percent increase over the previous year. The new service improvement program aims to help dealers make investments to improve fixed operations areas, Yoshinaga said. Subaru of America will chip in part of the cost. But dealers investing early can expect more aid, he said. He did not give details about how much money dealers were expected to invest. But the improvements would cover items such as increasing the number of service bays, Yoshinaga said. Subaru will continue to improve the overall dealer network by culling weaker dealers and recruiting stronger ones, he added. But Subaru wants the overall number to stay steady around 621. Over the past five years, about 25 percent of those dealers have been swapped out. Said Yoshinaga: "The quality of the dealer body is improving. We will keep the same overall number of outlets, but we want to strengthen the dealers' performance." Yoshinaga said U.S. sales could climb to 600,000 units by 2020, but that the company was not chasing global volume in excess of 1 million units by then. The goal: Keep global sales in the 1 million range and don't overextend into volume brand territory. "That is not the Subaru way," he said. "That is a like a mass market brand. To do that, we would have to introduce such products as a mass-produced compact car for emerging markets. Subaru will never pursue that path. Never." read the original article | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||