Subaru launches new Impreza WRX STI Spec C in Japan

The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C, based on the Impreza WRX STI, has got several improvements and was launched in Japan lately, with sales begin this week. Only 900 models will be built and it's not clear that whether the Spec C will be available in other markets.

One of the important performance enhancements on the Spec C is a newly tuned Engine Control Unit, which includes enhanced engine and chassis performance as well as a lighter body derived from the automaker’s motorsports program. The turbocharger also gets new ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, and the ECU program was exclusively tuned. These changes result in a torque to 422 Nm, while the power still maintains 305HP.

Subaru also optimized the suspension, springs, and fuel pump. As a result, the chassis offers stable and linear driving control even when traction reaches its limits. Meanwhile the rear Limited Slip Differential can be switched to a mechanical unit to improve traction in the corners. Furthermore, the adoption of an aluminum engine hood, laminar window panels and a downsized battery resulted in a lighter body, which further improves the model’s driving performance.

When talking of the weight, the Subaru Spec C features an unspecified weight reduction, previously rumored to be in the range of 70kg.

Besides, 18-inch lightweight alloys wheels come standard with the addition of a flat tire repair kit instead of a full-sized spare, and the 17-inch alloys are available as an option. The wheels have seven double spokes, and are wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires which improve cornering, and increase grip.

The car comes in two new exclusive colors: Sunrise Yellow and Pure White. Other standard equipments include gold Brembo brake calipers. Alcantara and leather mixed Recaro seats are available as an option.

Subaru Stella all-electric vehicle goes on sale in Japan

General Motors and Toyota are still years away from launching their own all-electric models but Subaru has be ahead of them. Recently, Subaru Stella has announced that its own eco-friendly Stella electric vehicle (EV) will go on sale in late July in Japan. And Subaru is expecting to sell around 170 units between now and March 31, 2010 – the end of Japan’s next fiscal year.

The new Stella EV, which combines technology from the company’s R1-E prototype with the regular Japan-only Stella platform, is based on the Subaru’s existing Stella mini car. The EV is front-wheel-driven and uses an advanced lithium-ion battery that produces a maximum of 47kW (64hp) and 170Nm of torque. Subaru has run tests on it and found it to be capable of a 90km range when fully charged. In keeping with its urban angle, the Stella has an electronically-limited top speed of 100km/h.

The car’s batteries can be charged up to 80% of its capacity in 15 minutes using a quick charging system, whereas it's also fully rechargeable in eight hours when using a 100V power outlet. The 8 hours can be further reduced to 5 when using an AC200V power outlet.

Emissions are said to be zero while the car also uses an energy recovery system for further efficiencies. The price for the Stella EV is ¥4,725,000 yen or US$49,150 (including consumption tax) and there are other tax benefits and subsidies that are offered to buyers. The Japanese government will be offering a ¥1,380,000 ($14,308) subsidy through its Next Generation Vehicle Promotion Center program. On top of that, additional tax reductions are also expected due to special measures conducted by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

Subaru expands Legacy range with 2010 Touring Wagon and B4

The fifth-generation Legacy (Liberty) and Outback were recently revealed under the product concept of "Grand Touring Innovation", and to coincide with the car’s launch in Japan, Subaru has added the new 2010 Legacy Touring Wagon and 2010 Legacy B4 to the range.

The 2010 Legacy Touring Wagon features updated styling, more interior room, and Subaru's trademark all-wheel drive system. Power comes from a variety of engines including two 2.5-liter units. The first is a naturally aspirated flat four-cylinder with 170hp (125kW) and 170 lb-ft (230Nm) of torque, the second is a turbocharged version which cranks out 265hp (195kW) and 258 lb-ft (350Nm) of torque. Sitting at the top of range is a flat 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine which produces 256hp (188kW) and 247 lb-ft (335Nm) of torque.

The new Touring Wagon is also bigger in almost every dimension compared with the outgoing model. Its wheelbase has been lengthened by 80mm thanks to a new platform, and overall the wagon is 95mm longer than its predecessor, as well as 50mm wider. Storage space has also been increased to 2,018L

Given its rather mundane mission as a family hauler, the new Touring wagon comes equipped with a variety of useful design features including larger rear door opening for improved access and slimmer pillars for better visibility. Key options include radar based cruise control, GPS navigation, keyless entry with push button starting, and automatic windshield wipers.

As for the B4, the sporty saloon is based on the 265hp (197kW) 2.5GT turbocharged powertrain but comes with a range of subtle performance touches such as 18in wheels and a discrete bodykit to differentiate it from the more mundane models.

Both the new Touring and B4 are expected to reach the U.S. by the end of the year and pricing shouldn’t start too far off from the sedan’s base price of $19,995.

2010 Subaru Outback priced from $22,995

Subaru announced pricing for the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback(R), with the entry level model starting at $22,995, the same price as the outgoing one. This fourth-generation of the World's First Sport Utility Wagon(R) is a roomier and more capable interpretation of the vehicle that launched the crossover trend 15 years ago. Distinguished by bolder and crisper styling, the all-new 2010 Subaru Outback delivers enhanced performance, comfort and economy with the introduction of an all-new chassis and the new Subaru Lineartronic(TM) CVT (continuously variable transmission).

This entry level model features the company’s 2.5L, 170hp (127kW) four-cylinder Boxer engine, as well as a six-speed manual transmission. An automatic transmission means forking out another $1,000, but even the most basic model still features the usual modern conveniences such as keyless entry, an electronic parking brake with a 'Hill Holder' system and a four-speaker audio system.

Also featuring the 2.5L engine is the Outback 2.5i 'Premium' - essentially the same as the entry level model but with a few extras thrown in for good measure. Starting at $24,995 in manual guise, the premium model gains fog lights, privacy glass, an electric driver's seat, leather steering-wheel and 16in alloys.

Even more upmarket than the 'Premium' model is the $27,995 Outback 2.5i 'Limited', which features an automatic transmission, dual-zone climate-control, paddle shifters, all-season tires wrapped around 17in alloys, leather-trimmed upholstery and a Harman/Kardon audio system.

The range-topping 3.6R variant of the Outback does away with the four-cylinder 2.5L Boxer engine found in the lesser models and instead adopts a new 256hp (191kW) six-cylinder engine, mated to a standard 5-speed auto. Starting at $27,995, the most basic 3.6R model misses out on premium features such as leather, unless they are optioned. It still gets all-season tires, 17in alloys, paddle shifters, fog lights and privacy glass.

The 3.6R also gets 'Premium' and 'Limited' variants, which adopt the same additions as found in the 2.5L four-cylinder model. The 3.6R Premium starts at $28,995, while the 3.6R Limited is priced at $30,995. All models also get a delivery fee slapped on them that falls just shy of $700.