Subaru launch Japan only car based on the WRX STI

Subaru recently launched the Japan only WRX S4 in Japan. The model is based on the WRX STI model which was launched in Europe earlier.

It is powered by a direct injection 2.0 litre turbo engine which is tuned to produce 300hp. The engine is combined with Subaru's Lineartronic 7-speed gearbox.

Subaru Global vehicle production was up 17% on last year while total number of exports also increased by 15%.

Subaru Forester & XV - for those who love the rural life

Have you watched the recent Subaru ads?

They show their two vehicles  from their all-wheel drive range, the Subaru Forester & XV in action. They are perfect for those who love life in rural areas.

Forester Features:

• Heated door mirrors
• Remote control key system
• Roof rails
• Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control
• Multi-function display
• Bluetooth, iPod and USB connectivity

The XT model is turbo-charged.

XV Features:

• Reversing camera
• Steering wheel audio controls
• Cruise control
• Hill Start Assist
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers with de-icer
• Leather gear lever & steering wheel

Prices for the XV starts from £21,995 and £24,995 for the Forester.

Subaru VIZIV 2 Concept

According to Subaru, the new VIZIV 2 crossover concept is "introducing the future of All-Wheel Drive vehicles."

VIZIV stands for Vision for Innovation and Subaru is using it to showcase how advanced hybrid technology can be used with "Subarus All-Wheel Drive (AWD) while also indicating at a future design direction for Subarus production vehicles."

The powertrain uses a new 1.6-litre turbo-diesel DIT (Direct-Injection Turbo) Boxer engine and three electric motors, one to power the front wheels and one on each of the rear wheels which operate independently.

We are looking at a possible future generation of hybrid technology powered Subaru AWD vehicles.

2013 Subaru BRZ

Former NHRA champion and film producer Ali Afshar will attempt to set a new record for the World's fastest Subaru this month for the second time. He has held this record previously.  In case you are not aware, Ali was producer of the indie car hit film, Born to Race. He is currently involved in the post-production on a new car racing film slated to be released before the end of the year.

Ali's ESX team include 2-time NHRA National & World Champions, 18-time NHRA event champions.

He is also the creator of his own line of signature Aston Martin and Subaru vehicles sold at dealerships across the  US.

Subaru twin turbo BRZ

Subaru XV named ‘SUV of the Year’

The Subaru XV has been named ‘SUV of the Year’ by 4x4 Magazine ahead of rivals from Audi, Kia, Mazda, Nissan and Volkswagen.

Judges were impressed by the compact crossover's fuel economy, enjoyable driving characteristics and ground clearance.

Subaru’s customer service package called Everything Taken Care of (ETCo), apparently helped tip the balance in the Subaru’s favour.

Commenting on the XV’s victory, Nigel Fryatt, Editor, 4x4 Magazine, said: “The SUV class in 4x4 Magazine’s 4x4 of the Year test is one of the most competitive. The Subaru XV was an interesting new arrival in that class, which did much to impress judges.

The Subaru XV range is available in 1.6 petrol manual or CVT, 2.0 petrol manual or CVT and 2.0D manual options.

Prices start from £21,295 OTR.

Related Links:

Subaru website.

Subaru BRZ

The Subaru BRZ is finally here in the UK. This car was recently awarded the 'Car Of The Year' status by the influential Vehicle Dynamics International. With an ultra-low ride height, the car looks like a smaller, neater, yet no less aggressive alternative to the Nissan Skyline GTR.



BRZ has a flat-four 'Boxer' engine developing 197bhp (a nominal 200PS). It drives the rear axles through a close-ratio 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

RWD Subaru BRZ coupe

The  BRZ coupe was built as a joint venture with Toyota. The car has received rave reviews in the motoring press.

The car has a new direct injection 2.0 L Boxer engine with choice of two six-speed transmissions - manual or automatic. It is claimed to have the lowest centre of gravity of any car.

According to one source, the OTR price of the car will range between  £24995 to £27995.

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