Subaru Crew - Future Models II

1…6162646667…446

Comments

  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I wonder if you do both - Rain X and silicone wiper blades, that is.

    I just applied two coats of Rain X and followed some of the advice in that post Drew linked us too.

    It rained yesterday so I already got to test it. Works great, at least at first.

    Also, it works extremely well on side windows and moonroof glass, where there are no wipers!

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Aerodynamics help keep the rear window clean—when the vehicle is moving. A rear wiper on a sedan (or any other type of vehicle) is really appreciated in stop-'n-go driving, especially with snow.

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    My tip? Buy wagons!

    -juice
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    Actually, with minivans, wagons and SUVs, as the air leaves the rear edge of the roof, there is a low pressure zone formed right around that area. As a result, the air tends to vortex in the vicinity, and it causes the rear window and tailgate to get dirty really quickly. This is where a rear deflector comes in really handy as it redirects much of the air leaving the edge of the roof downwards. The constant downward airflow doesn't allow the dust to swirl around and settle on the rear. After installing a rear deflector on my ML, the dust was reduced by at least 70%. I'm sure Ross can vouch for its effect on Rufus.

    The rear window tends to be cleaner for a car, or hatchback because of the different three box design. Some are better than others though. For example, with MB's new C230K coupe, there is no rear wiper (a mistake, IMHO), because they spent a fair amount of time in the wind tunnel tweaking the aerodynamics such that most of the water will be blown off and won't collect on the rear window.


    Drew
    Host
    Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    is still a good idea for stop-'n-go driving where the "aero" effects have little or no meaning. The rear window gets dirty just from sitting around collecting dust/dirt. A rear wiper takes care of that. I've found a rear wiper to be extremely useful when it snows.

    Every time I drive a car without a rear wiper, I wish it were there.

    Bob
  • armac13armac13 Member Posts: 1,129
    are important IMHO. Further to Drew's comment, with a hatchback/mini van/station wagon/ SUV the main problem is that road crud gets sucked up into the partial vacuum which lives around the rear window. It's not so much the dirt that comes down that dirties the window but rather the filth that comes up. The deflector does very effectively break up the vacuum on Rufus. I think Drew's estimate of a 70% reduction is very conservative in the Forester's case.

    Ross
  • francophilefrancophile Member Posts: 667
    Uhm, WIPER refills, of course ;-) I used a set on my Peugeot. At first I liked them, but after a while I realized they were coating my windshield with, I suppose, silicone. This was noticeable and distracting when driving at night or in wet conditions. As soon as I noticed it I stopped using the refills. Still it took wearing out a set of "regular" refills to scrape all that stuff off again.

    Based on that experience I'd recommend AGAINST silicone refills. The best method I've found is frequent replacement.

    Cheers,
    -wdb
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    Yeah, each vehicle's aerodynamics are different. I was being conservative for the ML too; it's probably closer to 75-80%. I like it because it is unique too since no one else that I've seen has my deflector (which was from Australia). That said, very very few Foresters I've seen are fitted with the rear deflector.

    I've found that mudflaps make a big difference in keeping the rear hatch clean too, since the road spray doesn't get kicked up quite as much (especially for my 265 width tires). With the rear deflector in place, I have to use my rear wiper far less frequently too.

    On a related note, when driving in heavy rain, I often turn on my rear foglamp since the regular taillamps can be obscured by all of the spray that is kicked up. The Euro Foresters have a rear foglamp as well.


    Drew
    Host
    Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    wdb,

    I've heard that complaint before too. I don't have a problem with these. Not sure if the compound has changed over time or if I'm just unaffected by whatever deposits they are leaving. They work *really* well is all I know. ;)

    -Colin
  • lark6lark6 Member Posts: 2,565
    The main reason I opted not to put the deflector on my Forester was because I feared damaging it with my kayak. As it is I put a shallow 1" gouge in the paint on top of the hatch with the boat about 5 months after I bought the car. I did a pretty good job with the repair, though, but I still expect this may happen again unless I grow 4" taller (unlikely at my age).

    Ed
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    I was checking the Fitzgeralds site and noticed they had a WRX with an MSRP of $29,889 (bottom line price of $27,152) listed. I thought, what is going on here?

    It turns out this vehicle was equipped with a "Rally Sport Package" which includes: 17" Kumho Ecsta Supra 712 tires, gauge package, P7 Prodrive Rally Wheels, short throw shifter, and titanium shift knob.

    Question: Is this "RSP" just a dealer package add-on, or is it a new factory option grouping package?

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Sounds like a dealer package, but I hope I'm wrong. Sweet choice in wheels and tires, though.

    I think they're now allowing test drives, too. My dad got a mailer inviting him to come in for a test drive (he purchased his Outback there).

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    a lot more WRXs on dealer's lots recently. Fitzgeralds has a bunch of them listed.

    Bob
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    I'd bet it's a dealer package, not factory. Or else SOA would have done it earlier this year so that it would qualify for G-Stock for SCCA.
    Heck we can't even get the freekin 17" wheels as a factory option.

    -mike
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Isn't that strange? They don't list tires, either. And the people running G-stock are the exact same people that would be willing to pay for the BBS rims.

    But the ones chosen by Fitz are a good package. A good value like that would be more popular, I bet.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    I would drop the titanium shift knob from the package.. Other than that it sounds okay. The price is still pretty steep though.

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    $27k with freight ain't too bad. The press was estimating prices from $25k to $28k before the WRX launch. That falls right into the meat of that estimate, and includes everything your heart desires.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Just introduced for Asia, is this rebadged Subaru/Opel. No word as to whether AWD is even offered, let alone standard.

    http://www.veh-tech.net/<

    http://www.veh-tech.net/pages/Newmodels/Spec/Traviq.html<

    Bob
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    New '02 Aussie Outbacks may be a hint of some of what we may see for our '03 models.

    I bet we get the new lights, aluminum hood, clutch, suspension and interior upgrades.

    http://www.autoweb.com.au/start_/showall_/id_SUB/doc_sub0108231/article.html

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Uh-oh, Subaru is getting GM disease. Hope it doesn't spread to the USA.

    I doubt that would ever sell here, though. Looks like GM is just using Subaru's distribution network to sell a small microvan in Japan. Similar to the Toyota Cavalier.

    I'd like to see those improvements in the US Outback. The catch is keeping prices in check.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    the Aussie H-6 Outback has a monochromatic paint treatment, unlike other Outbacks (but like our Forester S Premium).

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    Don't some Japanese models get the monotone treatment, too?

    I seriously doubt that would make it to the US. It would kill GT sales, which are already 1/3 of Outback sales.

    -juice
  • locke2clocke2c Member Posts: 5,038
    That Fitz WRX has some serious markup! The gauge pack is ...what $400? $550 at most. The P7s are $229 each, Kumho 712s in 225/45-17 are $101 each. Short throw shifter is $250 (don't buy it, get a Kartboy for much less $) and who knows about the knob.

    Lessee here... that's $2120 plus s&h for the custom bits. $23,995 + even $2500 = a LONG ways from $29,889. Plus you should get some money back for the factory wheels and tires!

    And people ask why I use the term 'stealership'.
    -Colin
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    in Oz with colors (Outback vs. Liberty). If it works there, it could work here too.

    Bob
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    It must have had other options. Fitz charges $700 over invoice for the regular WRXs. Also, their prices include the $525 freight, and there are no fees added to that.

    They're the same folks that have LL Beans for under $26k.

    -juice
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Don't forget the labor. Although *you* can install all those items yourself, most of us can't, also need to add S&H for them too.

    -mike
  • erics6erics6 Member Posts: 684
    H6 base model w/all weather package and 5spd... maybe same treatment as Forester L - unpainted sides and bumper, or maybe monotone paint like the Oz edition. (I'm not real fond of the current Outback's two-tone paint.)
  • ateixeiraateixeira Member Posts: 72,587
    I say make the H6 a stand-along option for $900 or so. I bet a LOT of people would spring for it.

    LL Beans are selling for $26k, and Outback Limited automatics are only about a grand less.

    -juice
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Ken- HELP!

    Bob

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    The Traviq seems to be a mini-van that Subaru designed with current "European" trends in mind (whatever that means). It boasts a relatively compact 4315mm exterior length, but can seat up to 7 people.


    Interior

    The interior seems to be fairly versatile. The third row of seats folds down flat by tumbling forward:

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/c/c1_frame.htm


    Also, the 2nd row of seats can be moved forward and backward for extra legroom:

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/c/c1_frame.htm


    Engine

    The Traviq uses a 2.2L DOHC engine that's been designed with a relatively flat torque curve:

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/d/d1_frame.htm


    Suspension

    The "Dynamic Safety Suspension" on the Traviq was developed in conjunction with GM Europe (!!) and features an automatic adjusting toe-angle on the front wheels for added stability:

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/d/d2_frame.htm


    Transmission

    The Traviq comes with 4EAT equipped with three modes: sport, economy and snow. The 4EAT also has an "N Control" mode that will automatically shift the tranny in neutral to conserve gas if you're on the brakes for a long period of time:

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/d/d3_frame.htm


    The Traviq does not have AWD, but has traction control instead.


    Safety Features

    A couple of neat features here:

    -An active headrest designed to minimize whiplash

    -Impact absorbing brake pedal mechanism

    -Anti-pinch windows

    -Doors that unlock automatically after an accident


    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/g/g0_frame.htm


    Two trims

    Aside from the base model the Traviq comes in:


    The sporty "S-package":

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/h/h1_frame.htm


    The luxury and safety oriented "L-package":

    http://www.subaru.co.jp/traviq/h/h2_frame.htm


    Base price lists for about US$16,600.


    Ken

  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    That's a safety feature? I would think that was an un-safety feature. All rescue squads have core-cutters and will break the glass if they need to get you out. Here in NY you could get hurt if the doors unlock after an accident, cause the other guy might tear you from your vehicle. Also what about a 2nd hit? Like you get into an accident, and then there is a 2nd hit 5 seconds later?

    -mike
  • kenskens Member Posts: 5,869
    Mike,

    Sure, why not? What if there isn't a rescue team and some passer-bys need to get the unconcious passengers out of the vehicle. I see more benefits than drawbacks. Remember, this vehicle was designed with the JDM in mind, not NYC. ;-)

    I don't quite understand how a 2nd impact after the doors have unlocked would change anything.

    Ken
  • FrankMcFrankMc Member Posts: 228
    that Subaru is selling in the Far East. I don't know if Subaru is actually building it or not.

    Frank
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Well let's say you get into an accident whack and spun sideways. The doors unlock. 5 or 10 seconds later, a 2nd impact of a car that couldn't stop in time smacks into your car. In that 5 or 10 seconds the doors have now un-locked, during the 2nd impact, you are spun again, and now the doors fly open. I'm a firm believer that locked doors are safer doors, maybe you don't need to lock the doors at all?

    -mike
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Sounds like the same thing GM is doing with Isuzu. Isuzu has a good foothold in Asian vehicle market, so they use the name to sell re-badge opels and holdens in Asia. Next thing you know, subaru will be General Subaru :(

    -mike
  • bluesubiebluesubie Member Posts: 3,497
    Yep, it's built by GM in Thailand:

    http://www.auto.com/industry/fugi23_20010823.htm


    Dennis

  • hypovhypov Member Posts: 3,068
    Wow and 6 stars too!
    ;-)
  • armac13armac13 Member Posts: 1,129
    stop, you're making me queasy. ;~)

    Ross
  • barresa62barresa62 Member Posts: 1,379
    Just trumped your "queasy". I just upped my lunch! Gotta go now and clean myself up! :-0

    Stephen
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    I'll have to add the Traviq to the Vans board, thanks for the links Ken!

    FWIW, BMWs and MBzs all unlock their doors + turn on the interior lights + the emergency blinkers after an accident too. Locked or unlocked shouldn't make a big difference. What makes a difference are strong door latches that don't allow the door to open in an accident.

    Apologies for the chat issues yesterday evening, but a great chat anyway as usual. The blips have been reported and hopefully we won't have any issues next week :-). Hope to see all of you there again!


    Drew
    Host
    Vans, SUVs, and Aftermarket & Accessories message boards
  • armac13armac13 Member Posts: 1,129
    and I thought it was just me! I was about to say good bye when I got terminated. Thought for a moment that strange psychic forces were at work. :-)

    Ross
  • drew_drew_ Member Posts: 3,382
    Spokology, Ross ;-)
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    for the excellent overview. :)

    What strikes me most, is that AWD isn't even offered as an option&#151;and this is supposed to be a Subaru??

    No boxer engine; no AWD; GM switches and controls; and yes, it is nothing more than a re-badged Opel... Asia can keep it as far as I'm concerned.

    Bob
  • texsubarutexsubaru Member Posts: 242
    Yeah, I have to agree that without AWD it doesn't seem even vaguely appropriate to be marketing it as a Subaru.

    And one other thing that's baffling me, having looked at those Web pages on it, what's this minivan got to do with a little, apparently musically inclined guy dressed in a top hat and tails???
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    the Traviq is just an interim model, in production just long enough until a "proper" Subaru minivan can be introduced.

    Bob
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Even though the Traviq is intended strictly for the Asian market, I can't help but think, because it lacks AWD and other Subaru "essentials," that it puts a dent into Subaru's image. Perhaps only a very small dent, but a dent nonetheless.

    You can thank the internet and web sites like this for that. Prior to the internet, very few people outside of Traviq's target market area would ever learn of such a vehicle. Not anymore...

    Bob
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    Get used the the GM re-badge model. If you'd like the Isuzu guys can have a help-group with you. GMA = GMAnonymous.

    -mike
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    Subaru would be committing corporate suicide if they think they can pawn off re-badged GM models here in North America. It's 180° counter to everything Subaru has worked towards.

    Bob
  • paisanpaisan Member Posts: 21,181
    I'm sure Isuzu didn't want to sell a re-badge S10 as the "Hombre" but GM forced them to do it.

    -mike
  • rshollandrsholland Member Posts: 19,788
    It looks like New Zealand is getting the updated Legacy and Outback, similar to that just announced in Australia. Are we next?

    It's also interesting to note that the NZ automatic twin-turbo Legacys are priced the same as their H-6 VDC. The 5-speeds are cheaper. That could be a good sign for us here in North America.

    Also, Subaru NZ is starting a new marketing campaign where AWD now refers to "All Weather Drive." I think it's a great idea that Subaru should market world-wide.

    http://www.subaru.co.nz/scrap_frameset.html

    Bob
Sign In or Register to comment.

Helpful Tools

Most popular vehicles

Your Privacy

By accessing this website, you acknowledge that Edmunds and its third party business partners may use cookies, pixels, and similar technologies to collect information about you and your interactions with the website as described in our Privacy Statement, and you agree that your use of the website is subject to our Visitor Agreement.