What do Subarus and best friends have in common? Relability.

Subaru adds all-new XV Crosstrek to lineup

Looking for an affordable, highly capable all-wheel-drive vehicle that is fun to drive, offers loads of versatility and delivers the greatest fuel efficiency in its category (up to 33 mpg), with 8.7-inch ground clearance?

With the arrival of Subaru's all-new 2013 XV Crosstrek, slated to go on sale early this fall, your search may well be over. The XV Crosstrek is really like no other CUV in the Subaru stable, though some will likely compare it to their popular Impreza.

The XV Crosstrek will be available in two trim levels: the 2.0i Premium and a more upscale 2.0i Limited. Both models will be powered by Subaru's 2.0-liter, DOHC, 16-valve inline, flat-opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder engine with Dual Active Valve Control System, sequential multi-port fuel injection and electronic throttle control. The engine cranks out 148 hp at 6,200 rpm, along with 145 lb ft of torque at 4,200 rpm. The driving force is delivered to all four wheels through Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive systems via either a five-speed manual gearbox with incline start assist or a Lineartronic CVT automatic with a driver-selectable, six-speed manu al shift mode and steering wheel mounted shift paddles that also features incline start assist.

The manual's AWD system is a continuous type, with a viscous-coupling locking center differential. The AWD system in CVT-equipped models is an active torque split system with an electronically managed, continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch.

Standard features for both trim levels include: 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels in a dark gray painted surface and machined edges; raised suspension; roof rails with available cross rails; fog lights; power moonroof; cargo-area tray; touch-screen GPS navigation system with SMS text messaging capability, XM satellite radio and XM NavTraffic; seven airbags, including driver-side knee airbag; and whiplash-protection front seats.

Subaru chose the North Shore of Oahu to showcase the capabilities of the XV Crosstrek, with an extensive off-roading experience through lush rain, with a lunch break atop a rugged mountain peak.

SUMMARY: The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek should prove to be a welcome addition to the company's CUV lineup. It is extremely attractive and sporty in its appearance, displaying a low shoulder line and blacked out "B" and "C" pillars, giving it an almost coupe-like persona with a low 0.35 drag coefficient. It is also highly functional and fun to drive. Exterior mirrors have been moved from the "A" pillar to the door, improving outward visibility.

Ride quality was comfortable and compliant, even over rough terrain, and the handling characteristics served up an athletic and sporty feel, with good steering response and vehicle stability. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system performed flawlessly on both wet and dry surfaces.

The 2.0-liter engine is normally aspirated and does not have direct injection (which Subaru felt was an unnecessary expense), but it delivers an energetic acceleration response nonetheless, along with a pleasing fuel economy (25 mpg city / 33 mpg highway). The CVT performed smoothly in either its fully automatic mode or when using the paddle shifters for the feel of a manual gearbox. The cruising range averages 524 miles.

Safety features are abundant and effective, especially the incline start assist. Versatility is key, with plentiful storage nooks and crannies, the 60/40 split rear seatbacks that fold flat for a level load surface, and the roof rail system with a 150-lb load limit. Towing capacity is 1,500 lbs.

The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is sized to serve as the ideal mode of transport for individuals and families with an active lifestyle, who seek adventure without compromise. Perhaps the XV Crosstrek is not a vehicle suited for traversing the legendary Rubicon Trail, but it's certainly up to fording small streams and tackling snow-covered roads and muddy trails with gusto.

-Courtesy of the San Fransisco Chronicle

The 2012 Impreza, available here at Subaru World of Newton

The Subaru Impreza offers excellent handling, a spacious interior, and  great fuel economy with standard all-wheel drive. Check out the 2012 Impreza online or come in for a test drive: http://bit.ly/Qup9Pn

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Here's the latest customer review on Subaru World of Newton:

"I purchased a new vehicle from this dealership last year and have it serviced here almost exclusively. The salesman are very easy to deal with and not pushy at all. The lot is a little small in terms of inventory, but with only a few models Subaru has, there are plenty of options in terms of packages and color. Although I have only been in for service and recalls, no major issues, the service desk is always very clear and helpful. I sometimes make an appointment but it has never been too busy where I had to wait too long."

Thanks for the customer feedback! We appreciate it!

2013 Subaru Outback Review

Joke all you want about “Crocodile Dundee 3” but the Subaru Outback has consistently earned high marks among drivers. The new Outback is no exception.

The design is unmistakably Subaru. The jacked-up wagon sits perfectly between a car-based wagon and an SUV, providing the feel and handling of the former and the room and comfort of the latter.

While already spacious inside, you can flip down the seats for an impressive amount of space and greatly increasing the utility of this vehicle. As is typical with Subaru, the control panel is a no-fuss cluster of instruments that are large and self-explanatory. It will disappoint a tech geek but there’s no doubting its simplicty.

The greatest changes come in the safety features, thanks in part to their partnership with Toyota. The full-time all-wheel-drive system combines with stability and traction control, anti-lock brakes and a hill holding system to provide remarkable stability and security while on the road. Six airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners provide excellent safety inside the cabin.

The EyeSight system is the biggest change to the Subaru. The driver-assistance system detects potential obstacles in the road, and works hand-in-hand with other safety systems such as lane departure warning and pre-collision braking.

-Courtesy of The Celebrity Cafe

Monday Maintenance Tip: Getting Ready for Fall

With winter weather fast approaching, now is the time to tackle the simple maintenance tasks that keep your Subaru in top running condition.

Timely maintenance does more than keep your Subaru running smoothly. It can help increase your car's trade-in value, improve its mileage, and save you time and costly repairs down the road.

• Belts. With the engine off, check your car's belts for cracks and missing pieces. To check for proper tightness, press down on the belt with your thumb. If the belt gives more than half an inch, it needs tightening.
• Hoses. When the car is cold, feel your car's hoses for bulges, cracks, soft spots or brittleness. With the engine running, look for (but don't touch) bulges or leaks. If you detect any, have the hose replaced. Note: Avoid replacing air conditioning hoses yourself. Their pressurized gases can cause serious injury.
• Coolant. Check the level of coolant in your radiator by looking at the coolant overflow tank. Maintaining a 50/50 mix of antifreeze will keep your engine cool in hot weather and prevent damage when temperatures fall as low as 40 below zero. Note: Do not remove the radiator cap until the engine is turned off and has cooled down.
• Oil. Depending on the driving conditions your Subaru is subjected to, change your oil and filter as recommended in your Owner's Manual. Also, use the recommended oil grade.
• Power Steering Fluid. To check, pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and insert it again. Pull it out again and check the level. If it is below the HOT range, add the recommended steering fluid up to the upper level mark. Note: If the fluid level is extremely low or fluid has been replaced, contact your Subaru dealer.
• Brake Fluid. Check the fluid level on the outside of the tank using the lines on the reservoir as a guide. If the level is below MIN, add brake fluid from a sealed container to bring it up to MAX. You'll notice a significant drop in fluid levels when there's a leak. Note: Brake fluid absorbs moisture from the air. Any absorbed moisture can cause a dangerous loss of braking performance. If your brake fluid tank requires frequent refilling, there may be a leak. Contact your Subaru dealer immediately.
• Air Filter. Again, depending on the condition of the roads traveled by your Subaru, routinely check your air filter for accumulated debris.
• Battery. Check your battery terminals regularly, removing any corrosion with a toothbrush and a mix of baking soda and water.
• Tires. Check your tire pressure (with tires cold) once a month or more. Keep tires inflated to manufacturer's recommendations, which can be found on the driver's side door frame placard and in the owner's manual.
• Wipers, Washers, Horn And Lights. Finally, be sure to check the operation of your car's wipers, windshield washers, horn and lights. Tip: Isopropyl alcohol makes wiper blade clean-up a snap!

For an extra measure of prevention, have these parts double-checked by your Subaru dealer when you come in for regular scheduled maintenance. Be sure to follow the schedule of inspection and maintenance services found in your Warranty and Maintenance Booklet.

-Courtesy of Subaru

Subaru EyeSight Behind the Scenes

Subaru Impreza AWD takes impressive leap in mileage

Revamped for the 2012 model year, Subaru Impreza takes a giant leap in fuel economy.

Both the hatchback and sedan check in at 27 miles per gallon in the city, 36 on the highway when paired with the continuously variable automatic transmission. That beats 20/27 for the previous generation, thanks to the shift to a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine rated at 148 horsepower, a weight loss of 165 pounds and the revised transmission.

The Sube isn’t at the top of its class, but remember they all come with standard all-wheel drive, so those new fuel figures are impressive.

 

The 2012 redesign also brings a slightly longer wheelbase, which -- along with redesigned seats and doors -- yields a smidge more passenger and cargo room.

I like that the front seats scoot way back. And even with them fully pushed back, rear-seat leg room is decent. Cargo space also isn’t bad for a compact hatchback.

A more raked windshield changes the exterior profile, but the Impreza doesn’t really stand out among other compacts. Inside, Subaru spiffed up materials and convenience features, a common thread in the new generation of compacts.

Also new this year is a driver's-side knee airbag, adding to typical safety standards such as side curtains, antilock brakes and stability control.

Upgraded models have Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity, audio streaming and iPod integration. The navigation package includes voice control, iTunes tagging, which lets you tag songs on the radio for later download, and real-time traffic data.

Standards on the base car include power accessories, air conditioning and keyless entry. Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited models also are available.

The turbocharged Impreza WRX still is available for performance fans, taking horsepower to 265.

The Impreza’s base price runs midpack among hatchbacks, which makes it attractive if you consider the standard all-wheel drive. And only a few competitors, including Toyota Matrix and Suzuki SX4, even offer that option.

All in all, the redesigned Impreza -- whether you choose the hatchback or the sedan -- becomes a much tougher competitor with its improved interior, added passenger room and much-improved fuel efficiency.

-Courtesy of the Phoenix Business Journal

New models are at Subaru World of Newton!

Right now, Subaru World of Newton is receiving brand new Subaru models, including the versatile and fun Subaru Impreza.

The Subaru Impreza offers a comfortable and roomy interior, as well as Subaru's standard four-wheel drive. It also has great fuel economy with 36/43 MPG. Come to Subaru World of Newton, where we have fresh Imprezas on the lot! Leases on the AWD start at just $169 per month! This offer is valid only while supplies last.

See the full gallery on Posterous

Subaru XV Crosstrek -- Surfing Day

1978 Subaru GL Wagon

The first Subaru GL wagons came out in 1972, and like most Japanese cars of the era, they were light, tough, and usually rusted to pieces before they'd seen the end of two decades. So it's pretty hard to find first, and even second generation GLs still on the road.

Old Subarus of every stripe are a little more common in places where Subaru sold a lot of them — most notably the Pacific Northwest and in Colorado. Nevertheless, rust has killed most of the older ones. Imagine my surprise when I found one hidden on the back lot at Super Rupair, Boulder, Colorado's thriving independent, you guessed it, Subaru repair shop. I didn't spot it myself, but stumbled across it on an online forum and figured that since it was in my own backyard, I'd better go have a look.

It turns out that the car, which only has about 40,000 miles on it, has spent most of its days parked in front of a house in South Boulder. Its original owner, who talked to me on the condition that I not divulge her name, is a 90-something-years-young retired scientist who bought the car new at the Subaru dealership in Richland, Wash. in 1978. She only recently sold the car because she doesn't drive anymore.

"At the time, the Subaru was the only four wheel drive car you could get with a floor shift where you didn't have to get out and switch the hubs by hand," she told me, adding that she'd had some experience driving four wheel drive as a Women's Army Corps captain during World War II. "I had driven army Jeeps during World War II, so I was familiar with that sort of thing."

In 1978, the only options you could get were the four wheel drive and a sunroof, and since she knew she wouldn't be living in a tropical climate, she checked the 4x4 box, but opted out of the sunroof. It was a wise choice, as she ended up moving to Boulder two years after she bought the car.

Over the next 32 years, she only used the car for grocery shopping and errands where you'd need a car.

So today, her '78 GL wagon is in more or less pristine condition, aside from a bent bumper and some faded paint on top of the right rear door. From the long, tight throws of its manual transmission to the deep, mellow timbre of its single-speaker AM radio, the car felt brand new, and left me wondering how Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas got, like much of the American public, so fat over the past 20 years. It made me realize somewhat acutely our need to rediscover how to do more with less.

Courtesy of Jalopink