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25-June-01

Press Release from Zigzag Asia - Best Motoring Video - (I watched the Type-R video and loved it, next issue to cover Subaru - lg)...

29-April-01

SUBARU POSTS BEST MARCH TOTAL SALES SINCE 1986.

-- Total Sales Up 2% From March 2000; Impreza Sales Up 77% -- CHERRY HILL, N.J., Apr. 3, 2001 – Subaru of America, Inc. (SOA), a pioneer of crossover all-wheel drive vehicles designed for the active lifestyle, announced today its best March total sales result since 1986. Bolstered by strong sales of the 2002 Impreza model line, Subaru recorded a sales total of 14,530 units, a 2% increase from 2000 totals for the same period.

The recently introduced '02 Impreza model line, which includes the turbocharged WRX, helped fuel total Impreza sales to 2,784 units, a 77% increase from March 2000 figures. Subaru Impreza sedan and wagon models achieved increases of 236% and 21% respectively. Subaru Legacy recorded a total of 7,266 units, a decrease of 10% from 2000 totals for the same period. Subaru Forester achieved a sales total of 4,480 units, also down slightly from March 2000 results of 4,635 units.

"Both the automotive press and consumers are raving about the '02 Impreza model line, especially the 227 horsepower WRX," said Subaru of America, Inc. Executive Vice President, Fred Adcock. "In fact, our dealers have been taking orders for WRX sedan and Sport wagon models since January. Impreza WRX has helped to introduce a new group of performance buyers to the confidence and control of Subaru All-Wheel Drive."

For additional information Subaru of America, Inc. and Subaru vehicles, visit the company's media web site at www.media.subaru.com.

29-March-01

2002 Subaru Ride and Drive - Firebird Raceway, Scottsdale Arizona.

The Subaru Internet Performance Panel went on a new adventure this month - to the SOA sponsored "Ride and Drive" event where we could have hands on experience with the new WRX. This event is normally for the dealers or employees, and we were invited as internet journalists since the magazines had already taken their turn at bat.
(click small photos to enlarge)

This was a very tight schedule, but even for the short time we had together it was a hoot! We arrived the afternoon of 3/27/01 for a series of meetings, and would need to check out between 5:30-6:30AM the next day to head out to the track, leaving from there at 12:30pm! With only 5 hours to kill before our first formal meeting, the first 10 of us to arrive went out on a site-seeing tour of the famous Saguaro (sp) cacti.

The group I went with rented a Chrysler 300M driven by our fearless leader, Tom Messick, with navigator Fishguy Jim, and crew members Nick Catalfamo, WebKris Marcinak and myself. I'm the one in the exact middle of the group shot. We drove up into the hills and got a nice view of the city covered by smog, and headed back to the hotel feeling a little dehydrated. That of course meant heading to the bar. Oh No, not again! Actually, we all just ordered a beer and some pitures of water so we could get free food at the happy hour for a snack.

We had dinner and a presentation at 6:30PM, and got to see all the new Subaru commercials on the big screen. They were definitely a step up from the ones that we have all grown tired of seeing for the past year. The WRX commercials stress the performance aspect of the car and it's rally heritage, and there was one particularly funny Forester commercial which I wont blow for you right now (but, let's just say it involves a guy from the carparts.com commercial, the worlds largest SUV, and a lot of yellow paint).

After dinner, we split up into three groups and went into seperate sessions. My first session was to discuss the new features of the WRX and what makes it so special. Here were the main selling points they wanted the salesmen to know: Flat four engine with Low inertia to improve cornering with less roll, Dohc - revs higher due to lighter valvetrain, direct ignition, fuel injectors with 12 hole pattern for better atomization, "tumble generator valve" and Pre-cat before the turbo for clean cold running emissions to meet 50 state certification, new automatic tranny with variable torque distribution 45f/55r for a more sporty power distribution, viscous LSD in the rear, larger 11.4" rotors (10.7" in RS TS OBS), 10mm wider track, rear roll center raised 33mm (not body roll center), hydroformed subframe with laser cut holes, rear cross member redesigned for strength, Ring-shaped reinforcement frame for more stiffness and better force distribution during an accident, daytime running lights and much more. They encouraged the salespeople to become more knowledgable about the details of the products they sell, and to know what they are selling.

The next session was dealing with the accessories catalog and items available to customize your WRX from the factory of dealer. First of all, they have developed a spreadsheet that calculates installed retail cost of the options a buyer is interested. This will allow an immediate and professional estimate or quote for a customer that doesn't require the "Lemme see my sales manager in the back" routine. They noted that dealers actually get different wholesale prices and different shop rates, and the prices can be adjusted.

OPTIONS LIST IS AS FOLLOWS: The RS and TS have optional foglights but the cover comes free. They warn to not cover the lights or the covers will melt if they leave the fog lights on. The 17" BBS wheels are a light forged aluminum at $3035 a set, they recommend Bridgestone RE011 tires which are available to dealers at wholesale from www.tirerack.com, the TS comes standard with 15" steel wheels and 15" brusehed aluminum are available, They have splash guards for OBS but not WRX (go figure?). Ground effects kit includes front and rear underspoiler and sideskirts, the WRX STI suspension is available and includes stiffer springs, sway barss, struts and bushings (there is a "warrantee disclaimer" on this option), SPT decals, All wagons have luggage rails but only OBS gets the crossbar standard, they have racks and carriers which can me made wider with bracets, the spoiler is standard in WRX only, the bumper cover is standar in OBS only, the STI muffler is available for performance and a sporty sound (there is a "warrantee disclaimer" on this option), the SPT muffler for NA has no ETA yet, the hitch option is for TS and OBS only, the cargo net is for wagon only, remote keyless is standard on WRX and security system upgrade is easy to do, the carbon fiber trim kit covers the door arm rests and dash vents, radio surround and cup holder in console, a short shift kit (SPT or STI?) is available (I tried it and it feels better than my SYMS), there is a speaker/sub upgrade but no news on upgrading the RS and TS and OBS from AM/FM/single CD to the cassette with 6 disc changer, air filtration is standar on WRX (unless I misunderstood), and the gauge pack for WRX is available with boost-oil-volt meters, or for non-turbo models the boost is replaced with vacuum gauge, a compass is available, and rubber floor mats with water channels or carpet floor mats are available. WHEW! They had a WRX wagon with EVERY SINGLE ONE OF THESE OPTIONS INSTALLED FOR US TO CLIMB ON... I will scan in the accessories brochure when I complete this article.

The last session I attended was a nice video on the rally history of Subaru. It covered the 20 year history of Subaru in the WRC, the evolution of the first race car line into the Legacy and then to the Impreza with good action footage, and very entertaining. This was the perfect conclusion to the evening to get us ready for the next day at the track.

Day Two, 2002 WRX Ride and Drive Event, 3/28/01

We had to get up about 5:30AM to check out by 6:30AM and have breakfast finished by 7:00AM, if we wanted to be on the bus to the race track. We all piled into the bus, and arrived uneventfully at the track, where half the SIPP proceeded to unload from the first bus and began to worship in front of the line of WRX's for the street drive we'd have later.

We were divided into three groups, and my group first went to the hot lap around the west track event with a real Brittish racecar driver, who would give us tips and suggestions. They had loaner helmets, and since I was eager to get some seat time I was willing to take a helmet 3 sizes too small to be in the first group. Of course Glenn Wallace, having his own personal helmet in hand, was first to go out. He looked like he was simply out for a sunday drive at first, and about halfway around he turns up the juice. Next thing weknow, he is pulling into the pits, and we're wondering if he broke the car. Turns out we only get one ride now, and one ride later with another instructor. Glenn was a little disappointed, using the usual excuse for going slow, "I thought we'd get a warm up lap". Alrighty then...

My turn comes up and I get settled into the rally blue WRX with BBS wheels and Bridgestone RE011 tires. My navigator was very friendly and professional, and stated that he'd help me get around the track faster than I thought I could ever go. Sounded like fun. I was ready to go all out on my one lap, and gassed it out of the pits. I am just getting up in the powerband at about 4,500 rpm when the instructor starts telling me to upshift in the first right hand turn, repeatedly like a broken record. Wha...? Okay, now I am confused, one gear too high for the next left turn and floored but going nowhere slow. So, he let's me down shift into 2nd for the next left hander, and I gas it too late coming out of the turn onto the straight because I am not used to listening to someone give me orders from the next seat (my wife knows better) - I'm thinking, like, DUDE LET ME DRIVE!

So now I am on the long straight and he is telling me to shift everytime I approach 5,500 rpm, but I hang in there to at least 6,000 rm before I follow his commands. I realy want to find out how it feels when kept on the wick the whole time. He probably gives commands too early so "slow minds" can process the commands, but in actuality the drivers were ignoring him so they could "wring out the beast". Coming up way too soon are the double cone "braking point" markers, and I'm now wondering, "why are those things only half way down the straight". So I ask, "do I realy have to brake this soon?", and he says, "we gotta save the brakes for the other blokes after you."

Well, the rest of the course tightens up and the turns are close enough that I can start to ignore the navigator and start to fling it into the turns, trailbraking the back end around the corners, and having a blast :-D (yeah, big grin, this got funner). The car was transformed and while it was more softly sprung than I would like, and had more body roll than I would like, it was very competant to be flung through turns at speeds that would have another car off into the dirt. There was absolutely no understeer or pushing of the front end through the turns. The brakes were tight, and there was little turbo lag if kept over 4,000 rpm. Before I knew it, following the cones marking off part of the course, I was screeching into the pits again. This was too short, but I knew I'd get to come back later for more.

The next activity was the street drive. They had 4 automatic tranny cars that nobody wanted to try, so we all made a mad-dash for the 5-speeds. I teamed up with Dave Palacios for the street drive, and I got first shift, and he was to drive on the return trip. The car handled the bumps well, and accelerated well from stop light to stop light - overall a much softer and more comfortable ride than my RS with AGX struts and Tein springs. It was definitely more quiet than my aerospeed 2.5" exhaust. For the frequent traveler, this car would certainly induce less fatigue than my turbo RS - the WRX being more of the kinda car my wife would go for. Since I did the suspension and turbo 6 months ago, my wife hasn't driven my car once. Maybe that is a good thing...

Upon our return, the next event was the "get a ride as passenger with a professional crazy Brittish racecar driver on the track" event. This sounded like a hoot! Everyone from the other groups who had done this came out saying "get a ride with Andy!" Basically this was hot lap as passenger with a driving professional, and it was their goal to show us how far they could hang the car out on the track and stay in control. Needless to say, I was first in line :-)

The Brittish drivers they recruited for this event were all so very polite and friendly, and never thought once about not sticking out a hand and shaking your arm off in greeting. Andy was no different. I then buckled up and cinched my helmet down tight, and we were off! It was a drag race to the end of the front straight, and it was coming up fast at over 90mph, then he hauls on the brakes and I go weightless then fall forwards towards my seatbelt. I'm thinking, "Are these brakes stock?", but the words can't seem to come out as he throws the car into a 170 degree left hand turn. There is NO slide, and no tire squeal as I felt what was approaching 1G pushing me against the door. Now I'm thinking, "These must be race tires, right?", but before I can say anything he is headed straight for the curb at the inside of the next right hand turn, and I hold my breath for the jolt of a speed bump sized curb at over 60mph. Hmmm... No jolt, and the car just soaks it up. Wow.

Next up is the rest of the "S" curves, of which he aims right at the curb each time and uses it as a launching point for swinging the back end out, at full speed and doing a rally style drift on pavement. This is happening too fast. I think I managed a cheer or a "WhooHooo" during the turn around at the end, which was performed in full rally style drift of all 4 wheels scrambling for traction. Now I am aware of the tires squealing amidst the din in my ears. As we head back up the straight he hits the brakes and they didn't do much, so he started a 70mph slalom and slide to scrub off some speed. Silence. I re-live the entire experience in my head, like my life passing before my eyes in a near-death experience. Someone is looking in the passenger window, and I realise it is the next passenger wondering why I am not moving. Oh, it's time for me to leave. I forget to say thanks to Andy and stumble out. I have enough wits about me to look at the melted overheated tires and realise they are the new OEM 17" Bridgestone RE011's that SOA recommends for the BBS wheel package. Holy Smokes!

This was the true moment when my whole attitude towards the WRX had changed. I had taken my own turbocharged Impreza 2.5RS out to Second Creek Racetrack in Denver, and flung it around the turns with BFG-R1 race tires mounted, and never felt that confident that I wouldn't be making a trip through the dirt if I wasn't carefull (although I did have the struts set too soft and the tires under inflated). This guy was able to fling the WRX through the course with reckless abandon, and never once did I feel that he was gonna lose control, even with the car all loose and squirelly 80% of the time.

We then all sit on the concrete fence and watch as one after another comes out of the car with a big grin on his or her face. I am too caught up with this experience to take any pictures. Doh!

The next event was to drive one more lap on the west road course again with a new instructor. Keeping in mind what happened the last time, I am prepared to ignore any and all commands from the instructor as I drive. I am not first in line this time, and realise that these instructors wont put up with that - they are handbraking drivers who fail to follow their instructions. One car winds up in the dirt at the end of the straight, driver coming in with a sheepish grin on his face. "My bad", the look on his face says. So, I get in the car, buckle up and decide halfway out of the pit lane that I want to adjust the steering wheel. I then start off and go for it, and this time I am allowed to push the car harder and faster, which was a relief. I was sure the instructor would worry that I was a bumbling driver with the trouble I had getting comfortable in the car. Towards the end of the course I almost took the next to last corner too fast, sure that I'd see some dirt, but the WRX just seemed to say, "Is that all you got?" as it rotated through the turn and gave me more grip. I pull into the pits thinking this is still not enough seat time, and only more more activity left to go...

Finally we would get to do a timed ProSolo style event... Only it was more like a SoloII event - since we wouldn't use timing lights, and although there were two mirror courses we would not do a run on each side and add the times together like in a real pro-solo. Another anomaly was that instead of walking the course before driving it in a WRX, we'd get one practice drive, and one timed run (unless you are Glenn Wallace and get to run both sides twice). The other stipulation was that we would all drive the course in an automatic tranny WRX, where previously only 10% of the cars were automatic. We could not power brake to get the boost up for a faster launch (unless you are Glenn Wallace) - sorry Glenn, I am having some fun with you :-) And, We had to keep the car in 1st gear. Lastly, the salespeople who were running the autocross event would be competing for a free trip to Las Vegas, for a National Pro-solo event to win money - We, the members of the SIPP, would not have our times count or be able to compete in the national event.

I am starting the get a few butterflies in my belly, and really want to show off my driving skills, so I watch the other drivers like a hawk for flaws and tips. Someone strolls by and says Glenn ran a 23.883 second run for fast time of the day (while powerbraking on his third and illegal run). (there's that jab again). Then Kris Marcinak (webkris) comes off the course with a fast 24+ time, and tells me, "The WRX automatic really has some lag off the line and you can get your foot in it all the way up the front slalom."

Apparently that was Kris's opportunity to mess with me, and I found that before the second cone and 2,500 rpm that the boost came on full blast and I took out almost all the cones in the slalom! Click to enlarge the photo and you'll notice my instructor holding his eyes shut during my run! I had told my driver that my friend tricked me and that I really knew what I was doing, as I then expertly maneuvered through the rest of the cones clean for a 24+ second run. I came around back to the start, leaned out the window and let Kris know what I thought about him, and was ready to go again. The next time around, I focused on the task at hand, and went through what both I and my instructor thought was a perfect run, at 23.9+ seconds. We did a big hi-five and he told me his best was a 23.6 when he tried it and was worried that I would beat his time. Then as I got out of the car, people started telling us we had one cone knocked over - neither of us believed it, as you can usually feel a cone hit, but they insisted one cone at the end of the front slalom had gone over. My instructor then joked that it "musta been the wind from passing it so fast". Later, Fast Andy would admit to having run a 23.19 second time after several tries! I was sure I could hit a low 23 on a 3rd run, but we were out of time. All I had time for was to make up with Kris and be friends again
;-)

Well, we were done. We got together and had an awards presentation for the winner of the autocross, who ran a 24.7 second time. We then were given a Subaru daytimer planner type of book, a small model of the Monte Carlo WRC Rally Car, and box lunch to eat on the bus ride to the airport. All in all this was a quality event. Subaru knows how to pull it off, and they certainly made an impression on many of us who were straddling the fence about the WRX. I think this poster seen here says it all.
It's not all about attitude, this car performs too!

5-March-01

Press Release

Attention all future 2002 WRX owners and info seekers:

Subaru of America has officially announced a partnership with the Sports Car Club of America (SCCA). This exciting new relationship will present all owners of the 2002 Impreza WRX with a one-year complimentary membership to the SCCA. The SCCA is the authority for professional and amateur road racing, rally and autocross events in the U.S. The Impreza has been a favorite and major competitor in SCCA events because of its' superior handling attributed to the Subaru All-Wheel-Driving system. Please check out the official press release on www.ImprezaWRX.com for further partnership details and membership benefits.

We'll be sure to keep you posted on the latest WRX information. In the meantime, happy rallying!

Subaru eBusiness Team

11-January-01

2001 Detroit Auto Show

Subie Q&A with Mike Whelan, Senior Manager, Subaru Product Public Relations. Brought to you by the Subaru Internet Performance Panel. (Member list to follow...)
Click HERE for a virtual tour of the Impreza WRX!
Click HERE for an index of photos from the autoshow that I took!

1. Q: What are power and torque ratings for the US motor, including the RPMs that the measurements taken at. A: 227hp @ 6000rpm, 217 ft/lb @ 4000rpm.

Also, The 5 speed Gear ratio is 3.90 - whether the size of the gears is larger is unknown. Automatic tranny has variable torque planetary gear with 45f/55r distribution and 4.11 rear gear ratio.

2. Q: Does the US motor come with AVCS or not? If not, for what reason? A: No, the future STi will incorporate that feature.

3. Q: What fuel should be used in the WRX motor? A: 91 and above for best performance.

4. Q: What's the compression ratio on the US motor? A: 8:1

5. Q: Will rear LSD be an option or standard equipment on all WRX models? A: LSD is standard

6. Q: What will be the standard wheel/tire size? A: 205/55x16"

7. Q: Will there be an option for bigger/different wheels and/or tires? A: Forged ultralight BBS 17x7" are available over the counter, you pick tires and sell your old wheels and tires yourself. They are estimated to be $650 each w/out tires! Reccommended tire size is 215/45x17".

8. Q: Will we get rear window washer/wiper, even as an option? A: I will need to check.

9. Q: Will we get remote foldable rear view mirrors, even as an option? (like in J-Spec). A: No.

10. Q: Will we get other J-Spec options such as heated mirrors, wiper deicer and rear fog lamps? A: No.

11. Q: Will we get HID low beam lamps, even as an option? If not, why not? A: No.

12. Q: Will rear spoler be an option? And what will that spoiler look like? A: We will have Optional port installed spoiler, F/R under-spoiler and Side Skirts kit, $ N/A.

13. Q: Will keyless entry be optional like now or standard, like in J-Spec version? A: This is Standard.

14. Q: What will be the standard in-dash stereo equipment? Single CD player, radio, or 6-CD changer? Which will be optional? A: 80 watt casette 6 disk changer 6 speaker w/tweeter, sub optional.

15. Q: What kind of brakes will we get for front and rear? A: They are 2 pot calipers, which are smaller for cost control. The 4-pot brakes should appear on an STi version in a couple of years.

16. Q: Will we get sunroof or moonroof as standard or optional equipment? A: NO. This is to increase structural rigidity 148% tortional and 84% flexural increase - test drivers say it feels "tight".

17. Q: Will we get 3-point center rear seat belt or just the same one we get now? A: Yes, and it will have child seat teathers too.

18. Q: Will we get rear foldable seats or at least the center part for the sedan? What about the wagon? A: There is a pass through in the sedan, but they fold in the wagon. The front seat fits very tall >6'-7'' people and has 50mm seat/steering adjustment available.

19. Q: What is the reason for not having a side repeater light on US models? A: It is still there, but closer to the front bumper.

20. Q: Will the yellow WRX be distinguished by color alone or by something else as well? A: ALL will come in - Black Granite Pearl, Sedona Red, Alpine White, WR Blue, Lightning Silver. WRX will have 450 as yellow sedan.

21. Q: Will there be an STi version in US at any later time? A: The plan is to introduce an STi in 2 yasrs with 4pot/AVCS if approved. But, STi struts and springs are option now, price unknown.

22. Q: Will bucket sport seats be available even as an option? A: The new seats already have more side/seat support std.

23. Q: What other options will there be available for WRX? Body kit, under spoilers, etc? A: There will be a performance STi muffler, still labeled as STi dist under the umbrella of SPT. Plus any STi parts sold under the SPT name.

24. Q: And finally, what's the base price and fully optioned-out price? A: The price will range from $23,995 - $30,000 fully loaded. The wagon will be $500 less.

25. Q: Will we have leather as an option? A: No, you will need to make local arrangements with your dealer.

26. Q: Who will SOA sponsor in 2001 SCCA ProRally series? A: No answer.

27. Q: Will there be SOA contingency program for participation in SCCA events? A: Subaru has done this x1-2 yrs, and in 2001 they will up ante, exact $ they're not sure. There will be leds ST/SM money, and more for stock.

28. Q: What is the planned date for WRX delivery in Canada? A: 3/14/01 in the USA & CDN.

29. Q: Whom can I send a nasty e-mail at SOA "to thank" for choosing Potenzas RE-92? A: The choice was to satisfy a variety of driving conditions.

30. Q: When does SOA plan to introduce WRX STi in North America? A: They will look at the response to the WRX and Shoot for 2 years.

31. Q: Will SOA instruct its dealers to be more mod-fiendly? At least the dealers should be educated about the law on mods (the direct cause and effect). Certainly there is a conflict with sponsoring ST and voiding warrantees on ST prepped cars. A: Not sure. (ed note, this question was deftly avoided and sidetracked). SOA appears to desire to improve their relationship with those who modify their cars, and is investigating this further.

Finally - Q: Head lights - why this change? A: To look different, forward thinking look, Similar to E class Mercedes. In person, the headlights are more clear and attractive than in photos (my comment).

STATS and TidBits: 1st production run 5000 Imprezas begins delivery 3/14/00, with 10000 total for the year. 40% will Be WRX and 450 will be yellow sedans. Subaru introduced '93 WRX to the press, later the 22b, and ultimately USA pressure lead to release.

AWARD to be presented 1/11/00 for "Most fun to drive 2001 autoshow"! It proved to be quite reliable - in street & rally school in Gainesville FL, they only had two punctures and NO damage!

Other engine Details: It uses a tumble generator valve to achieve LEV status - a butterfly valve causes swirl - opens at high rpm and when engine is warm. It has direct ignition - 1 coil/plat plug. It uses large IHI sleeve bearing turbo @ 13.5 psi (ed note: We saw an IHI on the STi motor, and a Mitsubishi on the USA WRX - also reports of actually seeing 14.2 and 14.7 psi are out there). Wastegate is electronicly controlled with gradual bleed off. Service interval is 105K cam timing belt. Due to new technology in metals, the solid lifters have a 100K service interval!

Suspension has larger bushings and bigger crossmember. The WRX has a twin tailpipe tip vs 1 with RS. It has a ring frame reinforced body with tailor made B-pillars/side sills - variable thickness. Front pillar/rear pillar support beams. Aliiuminum hood vs 2.5 RS steel. There are roof structural bars.

Other tidbits. STX is due fall 2002 as 2003 model. OBS will be introduced at Chicago auto show in 1 month. RS has no scoop and was not here at the show. It will come out with the OBS.

More details to follow!

10-January-01

2001 Detroit Auto Show

Well, I'm here with the rest of the Subaru Internet Performance Panel, and tomorrow we will get a close-up look at the new 2002 USA WRX, and have access to Subaru people who can answer all of our questions. I will try to post news here regularly, from my laptop in the hotel room!

7-January-01

2002 USA WRX Specs - Sneak Peek

29-March-01

To see news from year 2000, click on link to archives.