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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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).
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?
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.
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.
$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.
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.
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
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.
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.)
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:
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:
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:
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?
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.
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?
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
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
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???
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...
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.
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.
Comments
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
Bob
-juice
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
Every time I drive a car without a rear wiper, I wish it were there.
Bob
Ross
Based on that experience I'd recommend AGAINST silicone refills. The best method I've found is frequent replacement.
Cheers,
-wdb
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
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
Ed
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
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
Bob
Heck we can't even get the freekin 17" wheels as a factory option.
-mike
But the ones chosen by Fitz are a good package. A good value like that would be more popular, I bet.
-juice
Bob
-juice
http://www.veh-tech.net/<
http://www.veh-tech.net/pages/Newmodels/Spec/Traviq.html<
Bob
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
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
Bob
I seriously doubt that would make it to the US. It would kill GT sales, which are already 1/3 of Outback sales.
-juice
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
Bob
They're the same folks that have LL Beans for under $26k.
-juice
-mike
LL Beans are selling for $26k, and Outback Limited automatics are only about a grand less.
-juice
Bob
http://www.subaru.co.jp/
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
-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
Frank
-mike
-mike
http://www.auto.com/industry/fugi23_20010823.htm
Dennis
;-)
Ross
Stephen
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
Ross
What strikes me most, is that AWD isn't even offered as an option—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
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???
Bob
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
-mike
Bob
-mike
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