Find Used Subaru cars for sale on model specific websites. Below is a list of dedicated Subaru sites, simply click on the appropriate link below :-
|
| As seen On |
 |
|
| Subaru Ireland announce new model line-up for 2008 |
At a Press Launch in Restaurant Patrick Guildbaud, Subaru Ireland Managing Director Neville Matthews unveiled an extensive line-up of new Subaru models for the coming year.
Today's event marks the beginning of one of the busiest programmes of new product roll-outs in the history of the marque.
The new five-door 1.0 litre Justy, and the elegant and long awaited all-new Impreza range are appearing in dealer showrooms now, whilst two new flagship models, the range-topping Impreza WRX STi and the new seven-seater Tribeca, are scheduled to arrive in January 2008.
The new Subaru "Boxer" 2.0 litre turbo-charged diesel engine, a world first, will be introduced in June next year, initially in the Legacy and Outback range.
The new Forester diesel will follow in October 2008, before an Impreza diesel variant completes the line-up in 2009.
"We are very excited at the opportunities offered by such an extensive array of new models", stated Matthews. "It represents a renewed impetus from Subaru to grow our market share by a better response to our customers' needs." |
| Subaru introduces congestion charge-busting supermini |
- Totally new five-door 1.0 litre Justy supermini
- Outstandingly good fuel economy at 64.2 mpg Extra Urban
- Outstandingly low emissions at 118 g/km
- Should be London Congestion Charge-free
- Outstandingly low running costs including £35 per year RFL
- Standard five-year/60,000 mile warranty
- Outstandingly high equipment such as ABS with EBD, air-conditioning, driver, passenger, side and four curtain airbags, alloy wheels, rev-counter, fuel-economy read-out, radio/CD player with auxiliary input socket, rear parking sensors, ISOFIX child-seat mountings, four electric windows and remote central-locking with alarm
- Justy 1.0 R on sale now at only £8,495 on-the-road
Subaru's new Justy supermini is now on sale, offering outstanding fuel economy, equipment and space plus ultra-low exhaust emissions which should make it exempt from the proposed new London Congestion Charge.
In fact, with a 64.2 mpg Extra Urban figure, ultra-low 118 g/km exhaust emissions and annual £35 Road Fund Licence, the new Justy 1.0 R promises to be one of the cheapest petrol-engined cars to run on UK roads.
However, the five-door body offers interior space from the next class up while the efficient, 69 PS three-cylinder 1.0 litre engine offers sufficient power for long-distance driving. Top speed, for example, is almost 100 mph and the 0-60 mph time is 13.5 seconds.
The new Subaru Justy also carries a peace-of-mind five-year/60,000 mile warranty backed by five-years' UK and European roadside assistance.
Standard equipment is outstanding for a small car and includes: ABS with EBD, driver, passenger, side and front and rear curtain airbags, alloy wheels, air-conditioning, radio/CD player, rev-counter, fuel-economy read-out, four electric windows, reversing sensors, remote central-locking with alarm and ISOFIX child-seat mountings.
The front-wheel drive Justy is based on the Japanese-built Daihatsu Sirion. It is supplied thanks to an arrangement with Toyota which has a share in both Subaru and Daihatsu.
Subaru's version will be limited to only 6,000 units per year throughout the whole of Europe and 1,000 sales in the UK, ensuring strong residuals. |
| New Subaru Impreza WRX STi |
With little over a week to go Subaru reveal the pictures we have all been waiting for.
The WRX STi goes on sale in Ireland early next year.
Full specifications and prices will be announced next week, October 24th, at the Tokyo Motorshow. |
| New Subaru Impreza |
Early next year performance fans will still be catered for when the range-topping, turbocharged WRX STI arrives, the initial emphasis is on the new 1.5 and 2.0 litre models aimed at a much wider audience. Both enjoy enhanced fuel economy and driveability thanks to improved 'boxer' engines which - having their cylinders horizontally-opposed - give the car a lower centre of gravity for improved grip, reduced body roll and more agile steering response.
All new Imprezas share a five-door body which is shorter and wider than the previous Sport Wagon and offers substantially improved interior space thanks - in part - to a 3.7 ins (95 mm) longer wheelbase. Interior width is around 2 ins (45 mm) greater, while a compact new multi-link rear suspension allows boot space to grow by a substantial 6 cu. ft to 19 cu.ft (538 litres) with the rear seat upright.
The UK range goes on sale in September with the practical Impreza 1.5R costing £12,495 On-The-Road. An automatic version is available for £1,000 more. The previous Impreza 1.5R - introduced for the first time towards the end of last year - proved such a success that stocks quickly ran out.
Standard equipment on the new 1.5R includes: AWD with dual-range, low ratio transfer 'box, 15 ins alloy wheels, climate-control air-conditioning, four-speaker radio/CD player, front and rear electric windows, reach and rake-adjustable steering wheel, front fog lamps plus driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags and a vehicle information display (trip computer).
Tthe new Impreza 2.0R - also available from September - priced at £14,995 On-The-Road. Compared to the 1.5R, the 2.0 litre model adds: larger 16 ins alloy wheels, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, windscreen-wiper de-icer, xenon headlamps and heated door mirrors. An automatic version is available for another £1,000.
The Impreza 2.0RX adds not only extra equipment but also body styling enhancements such as front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a chrome exhaust end-cap and a rear bumper diffuser. The alloy wheels are larger at 17 ins and interior upgrades include 'Smart Entry' with an engine push-start button and satellite-navigation.
Also standard is a leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob, cruise-control and a 10-speaker radio/single-disc CD system. The Impreza 2.0RX costs £17,495 OTR with an automatic version available for £1,000 more.
Meanwhile, sure to delight performance fans is a limited quantity of turbocharged Impreza 2.5 WRX models expected to become available during November. Prices will be announced nearer the time. Standard equipment on the Impreza 2.5 WRX includes 17 ins alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a rear bumper diffuser, leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob, a rear limited-slip differential with Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player and xenon headlamps.
However the ultimate model will be the Impreza 2.5 WRX STI - due in spring 2008 when power, performance, pricing and equipment levels will be announced. This model will be visually more aggressive than the rest of the five-door Impreza range and will form the basis for the 2008 Subaru World Rally Championship entry. |
| Impreza RB320 in Autosport show success |
Subaru's new Impreza RB320 has proven a runaway success at the recent 'Autosport 2007 Show', together with a special track day promotion in memory of the late rally hero, Richard Burns.
Almost 300 places were snapped up for a two-hour spin around Prodrive's Warwickshire circuit in the new special edition which had its public debut at the show at Birmingham's NEC.
The lucky participants were transported from Subaru's show stand over two days, having paid a £50 donation to the Richard Burns Foundation which helps those suffering from serious injury or illness.
And not only did Subaru raise more than £14,300 for the Foundation but now has 20-plus orders for the car which will have a limited run of 320 units.
Meanwhile, the 'Autosport' show itself has been praised by Subaru management for attracting a high quality of enthusiastic stand visitors. For example, the manufacturer sold more than £7,500 worth of accessories and clothing. Based on the iconic Impreza WRX STI the RB320 is named after Richard Burns who died in November 2005 of cancer. The new car features around £6,000 worth of extra equipment including the 320 PS Prodrive Performance Pack, yet costs £29,995 on-the-road - an increase of only £3,500.
Available only in Obsidian Black, the RB320 features bespoke 18 ins alloy wheels and specially developed Prodrive suspension comprising Bilstein dampers, an Eibach sports spring kit with revised rear anti-roll bar and a ride height lowered by
30 mm at the front and 10 mm at the rear.
Also standard on the RB320 are a chrome mesh front grille, front lip spoiler, quickshift gearchange, side sill plates and RB320-branded gear knob, carpet mats and exclusive exterior badging. Each owner will also receive an individually numbered black alloy tax disc holder.
The PPP boosts power to 320 PS at 6,000 rpm with torque leaping to 332 lb ft at 3,700 rpm. This reduces the 0-60 mph time to 4.8 seconds with a 0-100 mph time of 12.2 seconds.
First deliveries of the RB320 are due in March with the first 50 customers being invited to a special celebrity driveaway and track day - again at Prodrive's Warwickshire circuit. |
| Subaru wins top environmental commendation |
Subaru's pioneering work with electric vehicles has attracted a top award from Japan's Minister of the Environment for helping prevent global warming.Parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries, received the '2006 Commendation For Global Warming Prevention Activity' award.This is for developing the Subaru R1e electric vehicle in conjunction with Tokyo Electric Power Co., Inc (TEPCO) and NEC Lamilion Energy, Ltd.
FHI was commended in the technological development and commercialisation category for the jointly-developed Subaru R1e electric vehicle and its high-speed charger.
Subaru's 2+2 city car is light, efficient and ideal for metropolitan use with a battery which can be recharged in 15 minutes.
The Subaru R1e has a 50 mile range and can be initially charged for eight hours at home then fast-charged at a supermarket, ECO station or local hospital.
The car has a 62 mph top speed, weighs just 870 kg and produces 54 PS at 6,000 rpm from its electric motor, while the battery life is at least 10 years or 124,000-plus miles.
Significantly, one of the advantages of the Subaru R1e is its fuel efficiency. Daytime charging costs are half that of a typical hybrid car and if cheaper night-time electricity is used, recharging is a staggering one-fifth less than for a hybrid.
The following innovations were highlighted by Japan's Minister of the Environment as helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions: - High-density lithium-ion battery that can be quickly charged and discharged
- Installed in compact high-performance electric vehicle
- Convenient high-speed charger able to charge the battery to 80 per cent capacity in 15 minutes
- Elimination of large quantity of heavy and bulky batteries
The Tokyo Electric Power Company now plans to have 3,000 electric vehicles running in the Kanagawa prefecture within five years supported by 150 fast-charge stations.
And as a consumer incentive, there will also be a 90 per cent reduction in car tax and purchase tax plus discounted parking and highway fees.
Meanwhile, Subaru aims to spread its ground-breaking technology by licensing to other manufacturers. |
| Sell-out success for new entry-level Impreza |
Subaru's new entry-level Impreza 1.5R Sports Wagon has turned into a sell-out success.
So popular has the £12,495 car become since going on sale on 1 October that official importer, Subaru (UK) Limited is entirely out of supplies.
Some cars may still be in dealer stock but with many, such as Triangle of Chesterfield selling twice their allocation, vehicles are becoming scarce.
Subaru (UK) Limited Marketing Director, Jon Nealon, said: Despite an extremely difficult new car market, our dealers have really got behind this new Impreza model and seized the opportunity to break into a new market sector.
Obviously we have ordered extra cars but these will not be with us until January so customers would be wise to place their orders now.
The new Impreza 1.5R Sports Wagon offers outstanding value, high equipment, flexible performance with good fuel economy plus all-wheel drive security.
This five-door-only model is a permanent member of the Impreza range and costs an incredible £12,495 on-the-road.
This is despite standard equipment which includes symmetrical all-wheel drive with a dual-range, low-ratio transfer 'box, alloy wheels, climate-control air-conditioning, radio/cassette/CD player, front and rear electric windows plus driver, passenger and side airbags.
In fact, the new Impreza 1.5R - which has a totally new 105 PS 'boxer' engine - is only £500 more than the most basic Ford Focus - the five-door 1.4 Studio which has a 79 PS engine.
And apart from lacking AWD, the Ford also omits alloy wheels, air-conditioning, rear electric windows and a CD player.
The new model opens up a whole new market for Subaru, appealing to two kinds of customer.
Some may need the reassurance that only all-wheel drive traction can give while others may have always wanted to enjoy the outstanding roadholding and quality engineering provided by the Impreza but do not need the performance of the sportier models.
Subaru also hopes to appeal to former owners of its smaller Justy model which ceased production in the late '90s.
All Imprezas marketed by Subaru (UK) Limited come with the reassurance of a three year or 60,000 mile warranty plus 12 year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.
This is in addition to three years' membership of Subaru Assistance - a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout the UK and Europe administered by Mondial Assistance. |
| Surprise entry-level Impreza announced |
Sure to surprise and delight many customers, Subaru is introducing an entry-level version of its iconic Impreza, majoring on outstanding value, high equipment, flexible performance with good fuel economy plus all-wheel drive security.
Called the 1.5R Sports Wagon, and available from 1 October, this five-door-only model is a permanent member of the Impreza range and costs an incredible £12,495 on-the-road.
This is despite standard equipment which includes symmetrical all-wheel drive with a dual-range, low-ratio transfer 'box, alloy wheels, climate-control air-conditioning, radio/cassette/CD player, front and rear electric windows plus driver, passenger and side airbags.
In fact, the new Impreza 1.5R - which has a totally new 105 PS 'boxer' engine - is only £500 more than the most basic Ford Focus - the five-door 1.4 Studio which has a 79 PS engine.
And apart from lacking AWD, the Ford also omits alloy wheels, air-conditioning, rear electric windows and a CD player.
Subaru (UK) Limited Managing Director, Peter Kinnaird, said: This new model opens up a whole new market for us appealing to two kinds of customer.
For example, there will be those who need the reassurance that only all-wheel drive traction can give. Others may have always wanted to enjoy the outstanding roadholding and quality engineering provided by the Impreza but do not need the performance of the 2.0R and turbo models.
Subaru also hopes to appeal to former owners of its smaller Justy model which ceased production in the late '90s.
The last smaller-engined Impreza was the 1.6 TS Sports Wagon, introduced as part of the 2001 model year 'bug-eye' range.
At its introduction in November 2000, the 1.6 TS cost £13,950, £1,455 more than the new 1.5R. This is despite lacking the new car's higher equipment such as air-conditioning and side airbags.
The latest Impreza received a comprehensive facelift for the '06 model year which included a 'spread-wings' grille with 'hawk-eye' headlamps and three-dimensional rear lamps.
The front wings, bonnet and front and rear bumpers were also redesigned, while the interior trim also received a plusher-feeling makeover.New 1.5 Litre Engine In Detail
Subaru has built an enviable reputation for reliability, long engine life and accessible performance through the design of its horizontally-opposed, all aluminium 'boxer' engines. This 'flat-four' layout gives a lower centre-of-gravity for enhanced cornering grip.
It is also ideal when mated to Subaru's standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system because of the engine's compactness, light weight and ability to connect with the AWD transmission in a straight line.
Now, the new 1.5 litre 'boxer' engine has been designed to offer strong low to mid-range pulling power, known as torque, while also having the ability to rev to high speeds for brisk overtaking.
So despite being the least powerful Subaru, the new Impreza 1.5R Sports Wagon makes the most of its power and torque, providing comparable performance to most front-wheel drive 1.4 litre lower-medium hatchbacks.
For example, top speed is 109 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 13.5 seconds. Fuel economy is also respectable with 27.2 mpg on the Urban Cycle, 44.1 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and 35.8 mpg Combined. Exhaust emissions are also competitive at 184 g/km.
Power is 105 PS at 6,400 rpm and torque is 104.7 lb.ft at a low 3,200 rpm while the compression ratio is 10.1:1.
As with all Impreza engines, the new 1.5 litre features twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank (DOHC) plus an Active Valve Control System (AVCS) which is a form of variable valve timing. This enhances both low-speed pulling power and high-rev response.
Also shared is an electronic throttle for more responsive acceleration plus centrally-located spark plugs, pent-roof combustion chambers and multi-point fuel-injection with an ignition coil for each cylinder.
Of special interest is the 1.5 litre's bore and stroke dimensions, selected to optimise combustion efficiency for low emissions and fuel consumption while providing strong power and torque.
In fact, the new 1.5 litre shares its 79 mm stroke with the four-cylinder 2.5 litre turbo engine. Naturally, its bore dimension is a much narrower 77.7 mm.
Other efficiency measures include low-friction, lighter valve springs and a
4-2-1 equal length, 'constant-pulsation' exhaust system which avoids gas flow interference and speeds up the warm-up of the catalytic converter. Ten-Speed Transmission/Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive As with the 2.0R Sports Wagon, the new 1.5R has a five-speed manual gearbox with a low-ratio, dual-range transfer 'box, effectively providing 10 speeds. Owners find this particularly useful when towing or covering difficult road surfaces as it provides extra engine-braking for greater control.
The symmetrical all-wheel drive system features a nominal 50/50 front to rear torque split. However, a centre viscous-coupling senses which axle has the best grip and varies this ratio in milliseconds according to the road surface.
This maximises tyre grip and handling accuracy, instilling confidence in the driver - especially on rain-soaked motorways or snowy country lanes.Outstanding Handling Continues
Despite being the entry-level model, the new Impreza 1.5R shares all the outstanding handling qualities of the rest of the range.
Key to the Impreza's forgiving yet fun chassis is the sophisticated all-wheel drive system, low centre-of-gravity 'boxer' engine and low-friction, long-travel four-wheel independent suspension.
Perfectly matched spring and damper rates provide an absorbent ride yet without any unwanted bounce or general sloppiness. The conventional hydraulically-assisted power steering is both direct and accurate, responding smoothly to the driver's wishes.
The Impreza features front MacPherson struts with coil springs and L-shaped transverse links and anti-roll bar. Rear suspension is also via MacPherson struts with trailing arms and dual transverse links, coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The new Impreza 1.5R Sports Wagon runs on 15 x 6 ins alloy wheels carrying 195/60 tyres.
Its braking system is via ventilated front and conventional rear discs with four-channel anti-lock (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD).
Other safety features include dual-stage driver and passenger airbags plus side airbags and an energy-absorbing brake pedal which snaps away under impact, protecting the driver's lower limbs. There are also two ISOFIX-compatible child seat mountings in the rear seat.
Generous Warranty
All Imprezas marketed by Subaru (UK) Limited come with the reassurance of a three year or 60,000 mile warranty plus 12 year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.
This is addition to three years' membership of Subaru Assistance - a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout the UK and Europe administered by Mondial Assistance. |
| Subaru launches used car initiative |
Buying a used Subaru is about to become considerably easier thanks to the launch of a used car initiative called 'Subaru Direct' - which goes live on 14 August.
Subaru dealers throughout the UK now have access to over 100 extra cars at any one time - worth more than £1m.
And with at least 80 authorised UK Subaru dealers operating the scheme, customers will enjoy access to the very best used Subarus available - most being ex-management cars with less than 15,000 miles and under one year old.
Potential buyers can access the stock on the official Subaru website (subaru.co.uk) where they will be shown three images of each car accompanied by a short description.
They can view either stock from their local dealer or vehicles held nationally at Subaru's dedicated compound in Quedgeley, Gloucestershire.
All cars are professionally prepared by Subaru (UK) Limited's own staff at Quedgeley, headed by a newly-appointed Used Car Manager, Tom Vause.
Subaru hopes to sell over 1,000 used cars annually through the scheme which will be accompanied by point-of-sale material and backed by compulsory dealer training. |
| New performance packs for latest Impreza and Forester |
New Prodrive-developed Performance Packs (PPP) are now available for the '06 Model Year turbocharged Impreza 2.5 WRX, WRX STI (and the new spec.D version) plus the latest Forester 2.5 XT manual.
All offer a dramatic improvement in low and mid-range power and torque, aiding engine flexibility and throttle response. The new Impreza WRX has a staggering 74 lb ft more torque, for example.
However, top-end power is also enhanced with the latest Impreza 2.5 WRX STI with PPP now producing 320 PS - a 39 PS increase.
Meanwhile, the Impreza 2.5 WRX and Forester 2.5 XT manual with PPP produce 270 and 260 PS - boosts of 40 and 30 PS respectively. A PPP for the Forester 2.5 XT auto will be available shortly.
All kits are available from any Subaru dealer for £1,700 including VAT and fitting and do not affect the standard vehicle warranty. All also pass full UK Type Approval regulations for noise and emissions.
The extra power and torque are achieved by re-programmed Electronic Control Units (ECU) plus the removal of the rear catalytic converter, fitment of a high-flow catalyst and sports silencer. The Impreza WRX STI also has a new high-flow fuel pump.
Impreza 2.5 WRX STI With Prodrive Performance Pack
Figures for the latest Impreza 2.5 WRX STI with PPP show power leaping to 320 PS (316 bhp) at 6,000 rpm instead of 5,600 rpm and torque now at 332 lb ft at 3,700 rpm instead of 289 lb ft at 4,000 rpm.
This is sufficient for the 0-60 mph time to drop from 5.0 to 4.8 seconds with 0-100 mph in 12.2 as opposed to 12.5 seconds.
The 30-50 mph time in 4th gear is reduced from 4.8 to 4.3 seconds, with the 50-70 mph time in 5th gear coming down to 4.3 instead of 5.1 seconds. At higher speeds the 80-100 mph time is now 6.3 instead of 7.6 seconds.
Impreza 2.5 WRX With Prodrive Performance Pack
The new Impreza 2.5 WRX with PPP produces 270 PS (266 bhp) at 5,700 rpm and a massive 310 lb ft of torque at only 3,000 rpm - an increase of 74 lb ft at 600 rpm lower.
The result is a 0-60 mph time reduced from 5.9 to 5.3 seconds and 0-100 time of 13.9 instead of 14.4 seconds.
Meanwhile, 30-50 mph in 4th gear comes down from 5.0 to 4.0 seconds with 30-50 mph in 5th in 4.7 instead of 6.6 seconds.
Forester 2.5 XT Manual With Prodrive Performance Pack
The '06 MY Forester 2.5 XT manual with PPP sees power leap to 260 PS (256 bhp) at 5,600 rpm with 300 lb ft at 3,000 rpm - an increase of 64 lb ft at 600 rpm lower.
With PPP, the Forester 2.5 XT manual reaches 60 mph in 5.3 instead of 5.9 seconds and 100 mph in 13.9 as opposed to 16.0 seconds.
The 30-50 mph time in fourth gear is now 4.2 instead of 5.5 seconds with 50-70 mph coming up in 5.0 instead of 7.3 seconds.
Competitive Prices
Prices for the turbocharged Impreza and Forester ranges continue to be highly competitive - backed by three year/60,000 mile warranty, 12 years' anti-corrosion cover and three years' paintwork warranty.
The latest Impreza 2.5 WRX starts at £20,945 OTR for the saloon with the Impreza 2.5 WRX five-door costing £21,445 OTR.
Topping the Impreza range, the saloon-only WRX STI Type-UK is priced at £27,040 OTR with the special-edition WRX STI spec.D listed at £28,540 OTR.
Meanwhile, the lowest-priced turbocharged Forester is the 2.5 XT which costs £22,040 OTR. |
| One millionth Subaru Forester built |
Subaru is celebrating the production of its one millionth Forester - one of the first and, arguably, most successful 'crossover' sports utility vehicles to combine off-road ability with sporty handling. In fact, the Forester is Subaru's most popular export model with 83.2 per cent being sold outside Japan.
The milestone was reached nine years and three months after the company began production at its Gumna Yajima Plant in December 1996.
Since then there has been a complete model change in 2002 followed by an extensive facelift for the 2006 Model Year.
Naturally, the Forester continues to showcase Subaru's admired symmetrical all-wheel drive system and low-centre-of gravity horizontally-opposed 'boxer' engines.
Worldwide Forester sales reached 119,743 units last year - a 6.2 per cent increase on 2004.
The first-generation Forester set a new world record with an average speed of 180.082 km/h in a 24-hour endurance challenge at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
It has continually scored well in all US and European crash tests and received several towing awards in the UK including outright 'Towcar of the Year 2004' and 'Compact 4x4 Winner 2005' from The Caravan Club.
The latest range starts at £17,595 on-the-road for the Forester 2.0 X which has a new 158 PS four-cam 'boxer' engine and features a high equipment count which includes a low-ratio gearbox, hill-holder clutch and self-levelling suspension.
Meanwhile, the 2006 MY Forester 2.5 XT now has a 230 PS turbocharged 'boxer' engine which gives a Porsche Cayenne-challenging 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds in manual form. Forester 2.5 XT prices are from £21,995 OTR.
The Forester went on sale in Japan in February 1997 followed by the USA in July with a European debut in the September. The second generation was introduced in February 2002 with European sales starting in October. |
| Top crash test results for new Subaru B9 Tribeca |
Subaru's new B9 Tribeca - which goes on sale in the UK this November - has been awarded top crash test ratings by America's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The US-built SUV scored an outstanding 5-stars for both front and side crash-protection - the maximum achievable.
These tests are based on the risk of driver and passenger head and chest injury in a frontal collision and chest injury for front and rear seat passengers in a side impact.
In addition, Subaru's new flagship also performed with distinction in the tough roll-over tests, earning 4-stars.
The BMW X5-sized Tribeca was given a low 16 per cent chance of rolling over and a 'No-tip' dynamic test result.
This compares with an average 30 per cent chance of overturning among all US-market SUVs and a range between 12 and 19 per cent for passenger cars.
Subaru (UK) Managing Director, Peter Kinnaird, said; These excellent results further vindicate Subaru's adherence to the low-centre-of gravity 'boxer' engine which enhances stability and therefore safety. Our symmetrical all-wheel drive system also adds to the driver's overall feeling of confidence.
We look forward to introducing the new B9 Tribeca in the autumn as it will not only enhance Subaru's move into the sport-utility sector but answer the needs of customers wanting a large, practical 7-seat SUV but with great handling and a sporty drive.
To be exhibited at the forthcoming 76th Geneva International Motor Show, the B9 Tribeca features a 3.0 litre 245 PS six-cylinder horizontally-opposed engine, five-speed automatic gearbox and full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive and Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC).
It went on sale in the USA, Canada and Chile last year and has proven so successful that exports will begin during 2006 to Europe, Australia and Japan.
UK Tribecas will be available in two 5-seat trim levels and one 7-seat luxury-spec version. Prices will be announced during March when dealers will open their order books.
This is the second Subaru safety award in a matter of months as the 2006 Model Year Legacy saloon and Sports Tourer have been given the first-ever 'Top Safety Pick Gold' award.
America's Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) scored the Legacy 'Good' in every category - a first for a midsize-class car. |
| Subaru Legacy receives top safety pick gold award |
The 2006 Model Year Subaru Legacy saloon and Sports Tourer have been given the first-ever 'Top Safety Pick Gold' award by America's Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Not only is this the top award given by the IIHS but the first time a midsize-class car has scored the highest accolade - 'Good' - in every category.
Areas covered included side impacts at 31 mph, offset frontal barrier at 40 mph and rear crash impact where the stationary Legacy is struck by a car at 20 mph and the head-restraint mechanism checked for neck-injury protection.
All tests are conducted at speeds higher then the US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety standards require.
In scoring 'Good' in all categories - leading to a Gold award - the latest Legacy beat US-market models such as the Audi A3, A4 and even the larger A6, plus the latest 2006 MY Volkswagen Jetta and Passat.
The ratings reflect injury-protection measures recorded on two SID-11s dummies, one in the driver's seat and one directly behind.
Essentially the same car structurally, the latest UK Subaru Legacy line-up starts with the new 165 PS Legacy 2.0R AWD saloon at £16,995 on-the-road.
In congratulating his American colleagues, Subaru (UK) Limited Managing Director, Peter Kinnaird, said: Everyone knows how important safety is regarded in the US and it is to Subaru's credit that it has produced such a strong overall package.
Like all Subarus, the Legacy is designed to have high levels of roadholding and handling agility in all conditions - helping the driver avoid the accident in the first place. This is due to its symmetrical all-wheel drive and low-centre-of-gravity 'boxer' engine.
However, should the worse happen, it is reassuring to know the Legacy scores top in all the most common 'real-world' accident scenarios.
|
| Subaru launches 'discreet' Impreza STI |
Subaru has chosen the 'Autosport International Show' to unveil a new, 'discreet' high-performance Impreza for those wishing to combine blistering performance with restrained exterior styling. Called appropriately, Impreza WRX STI spec.D (for discreet), the new car can be seen on Subaru Stand 734 at the show - open from 12-15 January at Birmingham's NEC.
Based on the latest facelifted '06 MY Impreza and featuring a new 281 PS 2.5 litre turbocharged 'boxer' engine coupled with symmetrical all-wheel drive, the new model will be available from March priced at £28,495 on-the-road.
Its unique features include a smaller rear boot spoiler, removal of the rear window roof vane, silver instead of gold 17 ins alloy wheels, black leather interior, black instead of blue carpet, extra sound-deadening, front projector foglamps and 'Prodrive' lower front grille.
Only available in Crystal Grey metallic, the new Impreza WRX STI spec.D also boasts luxury equipment comprising a 'SmartNav' satellite navigation system with 'Touch Screen' plus free 12 months' 'TrackStar' and 'SmartNav' membership and one month's 'SafeSpeed' subscription.
Also standard is an upgraded 200 watt audio system featuring a Pioneer DEH-P70BT high-quality unit with CD and MP3 compatibility, integrated 'Bluetooth' hands-free kit plus RDS and 'iPod' adaptor.
With its new, low centre-of-gravity 281 PS horizontally-opposed engine, the latest STI has a 158.4 mph top speed and 0-60 mph time of 5 seconds.
The revised symmetrical all-wheel drive system has both front and rear limited-slip differentials plus yaw-rate sensors for even greater roadholding and interactive handling.
A new, improved version of the Driver's Control Centre Differential (DCCD), allows the driver to control the vehicle dynamics more precisely.
Other STI features include a six-speed gearbox - now with a slicker shift - and a switch to spray the intercooler with water to retain power during high temperature/altitude driving. Drivers can also preset a warning buzzer and light to guard against over-revving the engine.
Managing Director of Subaru (UK) Limited, Peter Kinnaird - the man behind the spec.D project - said: This car is a steel fist in a velvet glove, offering all the thrills of the regular Impreza STI but not shouting about its abilities.
There will always be a strong, enthusiastic following for our more extrovert performance models but this new version will appeal to customers wishing to remain low-profile while enjoying their driving. |
| Subaru launch Impreza microsite |
Following the unveiling of its new '06 Impreza range, Subaru (UK) Limited will launch its first ever microsite for the iconic model on 13 January.
Its launch will coincide with the first public showing of the Impreza on Stand 7340 of the Autosport International Show at the NEC, Birmingham. The show will run from 12-15 January.
The new microsite will bring the product to life, with exciting mini movies of the cars in action and is designed to echo the heavyweight, above-the-line campaign which utilises the theme 'Britain's Latest Power Station'.
The ad campaign originates from Subaru's agency, Miles Calcraft, Briginshaw, Duffy, while the microsite and online creative has been developed by Elvis-MCBD's below- the-line arm.
In addition, the site will challenge the visitor with handling and stability games plus the opportunity to win exclusive Subaru driving days. There is also a downloads section containing rally images and a screensaver. |
| Warranty loophole acts against the buyer |
Customers that buy new Subaru models from Motorpoint, the UK's largest car supermarket group, will have their first 12 months warranty package honoured by the company in the event of a legitimate claim.
The statement from Motorpoint follows the announcement by International Motors, importers of Subaru models, that cars sold by a third part seller, in other words a car supermarket, would not be eligible for a warranty claim, even though they have the correctly stamped paperwork.
The Motorpoint offer applies to all Subaru models currently on sale at the company's four UK locations as well as those sold by Motorpoint in the past 12 months. Motorpoint will also arrange to provide an extended warranty package at a competitive cost on Subaru models purchased at Motorpoint car supermarkets.
It seems to us that Subaru UK are exploiting a loophole in the EU regulations on the provision of warranties for buyers said Motorpoint sales director Paul Winfield. This really works against the best interests of the buyer and we believe in offering our customers the best possible service and so, as a consequence of the action taken by Subaru UK, we will honour the first 12 months warranty on any Subaru car we sell. |
| Hot accessories for the face-lifted Subaru Impreza |
Prodrive 18 x 8 Forged Alloy Wheels and Pirelli Tyres:
Forged alloy gives a lighter wheel, reducing unsprung weight
WRX Fitment (225/40ZR18 P-Zero Nero Tyres) - RRP £2,380 including VAT
WRX STI Fitment (235/40ZR18 P-Zero Corsa Tyres) - RRP £2,700 including VAT
Prodrive Uprated Suspension Spring Kits:
Sold in sets of four.
Available for WRX or WRX STI
RRP £225.00 inc VAT
Prodrive Boot Spoiler:
Designed to echo the lines of the WRC spoiler, this will also fit WRX and GX saloon models from '01 Model-Year. RRP £585.00 inc VAT, but excluding painting.
Also new for 2006, and suitable for all the latest Forester, Impreza and Legacys are the following accessories:
Genuine Subaru Accessory Reversing Sensor:
Unlike other accessory kits, this four-sensor parking aid is also supplied with a visual indicator, which is installed discreetly in the vehicle on the passenger side rear post. Easily installed in approximately two hours the reversing sensor will enable customers to protect their car from those annoying scrapes and dents when parking in ever-shrinking car park spaces. RRP £164.99 inc VAT.
Genuine Subaru Accessory Bluetooth Phone Kit:
The Bluetooth Hands-Free Kit, suitable for all Bluetooth phones (Nokia, Sony, Ericsson, Siemens) has been further enhanced with an easier-to-use master control switch, and safety feature that enables the user to keep their phone out of sight. This simple-to-fit kit provides wireless radio connection with the mobile phone, full Duplex hands-free conversation, voice recognition with automatic disconnection of the car radio and connection to the speakers of the vehicle. RRP £225.00 including VAT.
(All prices quoted excluding fitting.)
|
|
