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The simple answer to your question is yes. It is linear, equal parts 93 and 89 will give you 91. This of course assumes that the gas IS what it claims to be this week. You won't always get 89 out of an 89 pump and the same with 93, due to variability in the product. Sometimes it is higher and sometimes it is lower.
To the question you didn't ask, I agree with those who say run the higher octane. It is cheap insurance. I had a turbo that called for 92. I used to run 94 and it still pinged once in a while. Turbo's have knock sensors to retard the timing if it detects pinging (as do our N/A Forester engines), but it still must ping first. Not a sound I like to hear.
Well, as I understand all the modern cars have the knock-detecting hardware and software and will adjust timing etc. before knocking gets bad enough to be heard by the human ear.
Not true. More and more cars are getting knock sensors, but not all. Turbos definitely do.
I would prefer to stop all pinging and knocking, not just the ones that I hear. Otherwise I could just turn up the radio.
Pinging and knocking that you can't hear can still cause damage, especially with a turbo. Besides, if the computer retards the timing to stop the pinging it kills performance too. Kind of defeats the reason to buy a turbo in my mind. If I can't feed it, I don't buy it.
Understand this: the ECU is limited in its ability to control knock-- it can only pull back the timing so far, and some of them can add fuel.
If the ECU does what it can (in mere seconds) and there is still detonation and you keep your foot in it, then something is going to give. -- period. Melted piston, burned valve, thrashed rod bearing, even a thrown rod. I agree wholeheartedly with Frank-- it's nice that the knock sensor is there but be SMART about it and lift your right foot if you hear knock. If you hear it often, smart people might increase the octane of their fuel. (If that still doesn't help, the car should be looked at.)
You ever do any playing with boost pressure on a turbo? It's amazing how much the power increases with small changes. I played some with mine (Dodge) via wastegate bleed-off... really woke the beast up.
Another reason why nothing-but-the-best fluids for my pet!
Do you think there would be any chance that Subaru would introduce a Subaru branded bolt-on Turbo for the 2.5? I'm thinking this would be a product/program similar to Toyota's TRD Supercharger for their trucks.
Perhaps I was dreaming this, but I thought Patti mentioned that the H6 in the Legacy sedan was causing the balance to be way off. So, she hinted that they'd probably go with a turbo H4 instead.
But, if it's the wagon you're talking about, well then, that could be a different story.
Was someone in CA talking to a distric rep. The rep told him whatever he wanted to hear... Yeah here is some BS to make you feel better about your car popping out of 1st gear...
Okay - message received - I will personally beg and plead on your behalf to our Product Planning and executive management.
One question though; If we bring in the Blitzen, does it set us up for the new name for the STX? Maybe the Subaru Dasher, Donner, Comet or Cupid? Sorry - couldn't resist ;~}
Subaru is VERY closed mouthed about future models. So, I can never say for sure what the future holds. I can give my opinions however. But, (disclaimer time), these are not official SOA responses.
I think the STX will have the 6 and not the turbo. The STX is modeled after the Outback line. Since the 6 is already in an Outback and humming along fine, I think it would be easier for us to put in the 6. The turbo would be nice, but with weight differences, etc. I think it would slow the launch of the STX because it would have to go through a lot of EPA type testing, etc. Remember, just my guess. I might be wrong (as I am told occasionally).
Speaking of which, are you planning on auto-xing the WRX? I'd love to challenge you with the old XT6 Apparently (according to Juice) you and I have similar driving styles...
Mike - I have to say that I'm interested but I don't see that happening right away. Not until the "Easy,that's my New Car" thing wears off. Sorry to hear about your driving habits, gosh I sure hope we are not with the same insurance company. Between the 2 of us, we have the potential to put 1 company under, huh?
I'm lead to believe that Juice's observations of your driving are based upon reality, unlike mine.
According to Subaru the new H6 only adds 100 pounds to the nose of the Outback. I'd have a hard time believing that the turbo hardware tacked onto a 4 cylinder doesn't come close to adding the same amount of weight. Therefore I don't think weight is the issue. Like Patti speculated unofficially (just to be clear, right Patti? ), my guess is that the big issue with the STX will probably be whatever they can get EPA-certified with the least hassle.
My personal preference for the Legacy GT lineup is whichever motor makes the car more of a Grand Touring vehicle. In fact this is the way I'd differentiate the sporty Imprezas from the sporty Legacies; WRX = pocket rocket, GT-B = bahn burner. My Legacy GT is already fun on the twisties. I'd like it to have slightly longer legs and a bit more oomph at highway speeds. A six-speed tranny would be sweet too!
...by VW and Mercury, respectively. Donner could have negative connotations in the Pacific Northwest. Dancer, Prancer, Vixen, Cupid and Rudolph still up for grabs, though.
That Blitzen wagon isn't red, it's PINK! If my color chart is accurate, I believe it's "Car Show Attention Getter" pink. If it ever hits the streets they'll probably change it to "Arrest Me NOW Officer Before I Break Any MORE Laws" pink.
With rumors of turbos in the air, here's my monster wish list for changes/additions to the Forester. I’ve been adding to this list over the course of several months. Yeah, I like gadgets and options... I (tastefully) installed six gauges on my last vehicle - what I really needed was a heads-up display!
Besides a laser turret and the kitchen sink, anyone else have any other cool/practical/useful Forester gadget ideas?
Obviously, many of these items would be offered as options.
(In order of importance)
-2.5 H4 Turbo and at least 215hp! -Increased rear passenger leg room... +2-3 inches -More comfortable front seats; less aggressive side bolsters? -Optional low-range transmissions (The Aussies have 'em, so why can't we?) -Better placement of front cup holders -Lighted vanity mirrors (most girls gotta have this -Trip computer w/ miles 'til empty -HID headlights -WeatherMax Package: [in a location viewable by all passengers] electronic compass, outside/inside temp, outside humidity, altimeter. Also, NOAA weather radio in-dash receiver w/ standby alert mode; Hella Raintronic auto windshield wiper system; Defroster wires on right-rear quarter window; Heated seats for rear passengers; VDC (separately optional)
I believe the "WeatherMax Package" would help solidify the Forester, and Subaru in general, as THE all-weather vehicles in the minds of the American public. Think of all the fun marketing Subaru could do.
-CD-R, CD-RW, MP3-compatible, in-dash, 6-disk CD changer (this option would be a big attention getter; potentially 400 hours of custom-recorded music!) -Steering wheel mounted radio controls -*Continuously* [aka the "rhino"] variable intermittent front wipers -Variable intermittent rear wiper -Optional gauges mounted in pods on the A-pillar, leaving the handy storage bin on top of the dash available -Adjustable night time lighting for all driver controls and stalks -Lighted glove box (already has this??) -12v plug at rear of center console for back passenger use -Even more secret hidden compartments! (is that possible? -Fixed-beam map lights for rear passengers (doubles as baby-monitoring lights) -Interior fuel door release -Under-hood light
I second all your requests, but the most important for me is to improve front seat comfort. I actually like side bolsters, but please please please make seat cushion 1-2" longer, for a better thigh support.
I actually like the power in my Forester, but would like turbo even more, sans scoop on the hood and turbo lag.
Bob: interesting thought, but Subaru would most likely add forced induction to the H6, rather than engineering a new design like VW did (they have deeper pockets). The H6 fills the engine bay already, so an H8 probably would not fit the current platform. I say offer a LPT H6 (light pressure turbo, with no lag).
Forester wish list? I like. I'll simplify yours: toss in WRX seats as-is, the WRX engine, the aussie low range, a towing package good for 3500lbs, and a multilink rear suspension so you can move the back seat further back about 2 inches.
Seriously? That package would be invincible. Far and away the best-in-class in every way I can imagine.
I doubt the seats in the WRX cost any more to make than the Forester's seats.
The rear suspension would be part of the redesign that's being done anyway.
So that leaves the engine (+2K or so). Let the low range ($400) and the towing package ($500 for a transmission cooler and hitch) be stand-alone options.
Fitz has Forester S Premiums for under $23k, so a nicely equipped Foreter Turbo would run $25k street price, topping out at $26k with the low range and tow package.
You've been down in DC wayyyyyy toooo long. I'm sure the seats cost more, they have to recover the re-design costs, the low range is probably more than $400, it's a whole separate tranny. What about all those guages, etc. etc. all those little toys add up.
Aussie Soobs are not expensive, so the dual range can't cost that much.
The Forester GT costs about 10% more than a 2.0l Forester in latin american markets, and the 2.0l has to be cheaper than the 2.5l sold here. Even ignoring that the 2.0l is cheaper, I came up with the $2k.
They do have to recover design costs, and the Outback did get a price bump when it was redesigned for 2000.
Prices I'm talking are street price. The MSRP will be a little more than 10% above that, or $28-29k or so.
Juice, I thought that funny stuff people smoke is the prerogative of the West Coast. Just joking.
Remembered how people whined about the VDC pricing. It "merely" had a 6-cylinder motor, fancy radio, auto climate and a fancy braking system (VDC) extra and it costs $5,000 - $6,000 more than the Limited edition Outback.
So, will the Forester be about $5,000 more? Are we prepared to pay for that?
I disagree. The LL Bean is selling for under $27k, while OB LTDs are about $25k with automatic and fewer features. The engine costs you maybe $1500 more, that's it.
Heck, that supports my argument more than it hurts it!
I just replied to the seat question in the other topic... anyhoo...
I doubt the seats in the WRX cost any more to make than the Forester's seats.
They cost more for sure. A whole bunch more, maybe not. But to me cost isn't the real reason the WRX seats aren't in a Forester-- the reason is the Forester's intended (and likely) use versus the WRX, and the Forester's average customer versus the WRX.
I think that with heavily bolstered buckets the Forester would draw more criticism than praise. Customers that aren't going to be carving corners--or let's be honest, are a bit ...um larger than average--are not going to like big bolsters. There would be 3-6 people complaining about the bolsters being uncomfortable and difficult to enter/exit for *each* person that liked them.
Again, this forum is not representative of the average Subaru consumer. We are serious enthusiasts, our continued participation here proves it.
i agree with colin. There's no point as to why Subaru should put WRX seats across the board after all how many regular forester owners would appreciate the seats or even the MOMO steering wheel if it was included? The mindset of msot Forester owners are of the utilty and outdoorsie ones. So a regular bucket seat with some padding is all it need to satisfy their needs right?
I was just reading the cover story of this week's AutoWeek, on the upcoming Mercedes C230 Sport Coupe, and couldn't help but think that Subaru should be doing a car something like this.
By that I mean, base a future coupe/hatchback off an existing platform, such as the Legacy or Impreza. I prefer the Legacy platform; because it is sleaker than the Impreza, and it's a bit bigger, so that it could be a true (and comfortable) 4-seater; and it has the more sophisticated and compact multi-link rear suspension.
Here's what I like about the Mercedes C230 Sport Coupe, and the approach Mercedes took:
The size is right. Actually, the Mercedes has a wheelbase that is 2.5" longer than the current Legacy. It looks shorter because of the chopped off rear. I think(?) the overall length, width and height are very close to the current Legacy sedan.
It's hatchback. I've always preferred hatchbacks to coupes because they're more useful and flexible in terms of needs. I'm glad Mercedes (and BMW with the 318ti) feel that there is a market here in the States for "premium" hatchbacks. Hatchbacks have always been popular in Europe, while here, they've always been thought of as being "low-rent," which is a shame. A hatchback also fits Subaru's "functional" and "different" image much better than that of a pure coupe.
Even though Subaru has not said anything (officially) about any future coupe, I'm as sure that we will see one in the not too distant future, as I am about the sun rising tomorrow.
I hope Subaru takes a good hard look at this Mercedes. Prices are supposed to start around $26K—the prime Subaru market area.
Pop in the H-6, or WRX engine in there, hook it up to a good 6-speed manual (standard on the Mercedes) and also offer a 5-speed tip-tronic automatic (also available on the Mercedes), and you've got a sure recipe for success. The only other thing I would hope for, is a pair of suicide doors to help us old folks get in and out of the rear.
-Juice: I’ll second your short-list Forester choices, but I’ll hold judgment on the WRX seats until I’ve had a chance to sit on them.
I agree with those worried about costs. My Forester changes/additions list is a little on the “eccentric” side. I know that one of the great selling points for the Forester is its low price. I certainly hope that continues with any new Forester.
But, would it be possible to offer most of the gadgets I propose as *options* and then group some of the biggies (low range, turbo, WeatherMax, etc.) together in a GTX (or whatever) Forester, thereby preserving the lower priced L and S models?
Oh, and I thought of a few more goodies :
-Articulating headrests on front seats (meaning they tilt as well as move up and down) -Air conditioning/heater vents at rear of center console for back passengers -Sun visor sliding extensions -Secondary, mini flip-down sun visors
I don't know about the rest of you, but I find the control switches to the lower left of the steering wheel (cruise control master switch, fog lights, etc.) to be hard to find at quick glance. The steering wheel blocks the view to these switches, and makes them hard to find and/or use.
I wish they were located where they can be easily found/used in an instance.
Well, guys, you see the problem with a million options is that they have to predict what the people want to buy with those options. If you believe for a minute that when you place a factory order, there is someone at the plant going "ok, Mr. Juice's order just came in, let's start building his car" you are sorely mis-informed. This is one reason why the options offered on subarus, isuzus, and most of the other smaller manufacturer's are so limited. They produce the cars based on what they roughly think they'll need and when you "order" one they ship it out from the factory. The few options they have are mostly PIO options. Something like the transmissions (hi/low range) are not PIOs. The more options they offer, the more expensive it becomes to build the cars because there are more vairables to predict.
Then again, how often do I push the cruise control turn on button? When Im ready to turn on the cruise control when no ones around is when And since I always have the foglight button pushed it and on for when I turn on the lights, theres another non-existant problem
Besides, everything else is perfectly situated, especially the Cruise control CONTROL nob thingy... Thats in a perfect spot!
who always have the fog lights on? Please try to break yourself of the habit. Fog lights are only for use in FOG, they are very distracting for oncoming drivers and increase your ability to see little or not at all. Definitely a driving hazard. Sorry, but this is a major peeve of mine!My $.02.
Subaru, and other manufacturers regard those switches as "secondary," rather than "primary" controls, which is why they're placed rather awkwardly. It's far easier to adjust the climate control, or radio, than it is to find/use those switches.
As to the cruise control "master switch," I think Toyota has the best solution. It's a button located on the very end of the cruise control stalk (which is just like Subaru's), so that "all" cruise control functions are together. It's a great solution.
BTW, I agree, fog lights are for fog, period. I will also admit to being guilty of driving with fog lights on when they shouldn't be—because the steering wheel was blocking my view to see the damn switch, indicating that the fog lights were on.
Steve, PLEASE do not run your fog lights when there is no fog. It is very irritating to oncoming drivers. In some countries (Europe) it is actually illegal.
Bob, I wholeheartedly agre with you regarding those stupid buttons on the left of the steering wheel. You can not see them, the Forester is different to the Outback and you cannot see whether they are on or not. Why not put them in the central console where they can be seen. Put the cup holder where the switches are, as in the M-Class. Also move the window switches to the central console somewhere. BMW has them around the gear stick. I cannot understand what good they do on the arm rest.
There may be some reason why the product engineers designed the cars that way.
Comments
The simple answer to your question is yes. It is linear, equal parts 93 and 89 will give you 91. This of course assumes that the gas IS what it claims to be this week. You won't always get 89 out of an 89 pump and the same with 93, due to variability in the product. Sometimes it is higher and sometimes it is lower.
To the question you didn't ask, I agree with those who say run the higher octane. It is cheap insurance. I had a turbo that called for 92. I used to run 94 and it still pinged once in a while. Turbo's have knock sensors to retard the timing if it detects pinging (as do our N/A Forester engines), but it still must ping first. Not a sound I like to hear.
Regards,
Frank
I would prefer to stop all pinging and knocking, not just the ones that I hear. Otherwise I could just turn up the radio.
Pinging and knocking that you can't hear can still cause damage, especially with a turbo. Besides, if the computer retards the timing to stop the pinging it kills performance too. Kind of defeats the reason to buy a turbo in my mind. If I can't feed it, I don't buy it.
Regards,
Frank
If the ECU does what it can (in mere seconds) and there is still detonation and you keep your foot in it, then something is going to give. -- period. Melted piston, burned valve, thrashed rod bearing, even a thrown rod. I agree wholeheartedly with Frank-- it's nice that the knock sensor is there but be SMART about it and lift your right foot if you hear knock. If you hear it often, smart people might increase the octane of their fuel. (If that still doesn't help, the car should be looked at.)
-Colin
Another reason why nothing-but-the-best fluids for my pet!
Regards,
Frank
A turbo 4 is fine. I just want more power and lots of it.
I don't think bringing the small models from overseas will help Subaru. They are going upscale and that would cheapen the brand.
I say work on improving the current fleet's efficiency.
-juice
-Dan
Bolt on mods are usually a bit rough around the edges. Plus Subaru has to cover warranty repairs. They don't even stand behind STi parts sold here.
-juice
Bob
-mike
But, if it's the wagon you're talking about, well then, that could be a different story.
-Brian
..Mike
..Mike
-mike
One question though; If we bring in the Blitzen, does it set us up for the new name for the STX? Maybe the Subaru Dasher, Donner, Comet or Cupid?
Sorry - couldn't resist ;~}
Subaru is VERY closed mouthed about future models. So, I can never say for sure what the future holds. I can give my opinions however. But, (disclaimer time), these are not official SOA responses.
I think the STX will have the 6 and not the turbo. The STX is modeled after the Outback line. Since the 6 is already in an Outback and humming along fine, I think it would be easier for us to put in the 6. The turbo would be nice, but with weight differences, etc. I think it would slow the launch of the STX because it would have to go through a lot of EPA type testing, etc. Remember, just my guess. I might be wrong (as I am told occasionally).
Back later!
Patti
-mike
You kill me
- hutch
-mike
Sorry to hear about your driving habits, gosh I sure hope we are not with the same insurance company. Between the 2 of us, we have the potential to put 1 company under, huh?
I'm lead to believe that Juice's observations of your driving are based upon reality, unlike mine.
- hutch
My personal preference for the Legacy GT lineup is whichever motor makes the car more of a Grand Touring vehicle. In fact this is the way I'd differentiate the sporty Imprezas from the sporty Legacies; WRX = pocket rocket, GT-B = bahn burner. My Legacy GT is already fun on the twisties. I'd like it to have slightly longer legs and a bit more oomph at highway speeds. A six-speed tranny would be sweet too!
Cheers,
-wdb
Bob
How much heavier is the H6 compared to the 2.0l turbo?
-mike
Tuners sometimes charge extravagant prices for basically the same stuff. Like $80 for end links that cost maybe $4 to make.
Hutch: see my post in Meet the Members on that topic.
-juice
Subaru unveils its Porsche Design limited edition Legacy Blitzen wagon, 15 January 2001.
"unlike last year's short sales period, the wagon and sedan will both be available in limited numbers of 1000 apiece." [my emphasis]
Subaru's awesome 22B returns thanks to Prodrive!, 15 January 2001
STi Prodrive headed for production, Joint development of 18 inch wheels with OZ proves it!, 15 January 2001
..Mike
..Mike
Ed
PS: I owe you an offline e-mail.
That Blitzen wagon isn't red, it's PINK! If my color chart is accurate, I believe it's "Car Show Attention Getter" pink. If it ever hits the streets they'll probably change it to "Arrest Me NOW Officer Before I Break Any MORE Laws" pink.
Cheers,
-wdb
Bob
http://www.edmunds.com/news/autoshows/2001genevaautoshow/45191/page013.html
Ross
Besides a laser turret and the kitchen sink, anyone else have any other cool/practical/useful Forester gadget ideas?
Obviously, many of these items would be offered as options.
(In order of importance)
-2.5 H4 Turbo and at least 215hp!
-Increased rear passenger leg room... +2-3 inches
-More comfortable front seats; less aggressive side bolsters?
-Optional low-range transmissions (The Aussies have 'em, so why can't we?)
-Better placement of front cup holders
-Lighted vanity mirrors (most girls gotta have this
-Trip computer w/ miles 'til empty
-HID headlights
-WeatherMax Package: [in a location viewable by all passengers] electronic compass, outside/inside temp, outside humidity, altimeter. Also, NOAA weather radio in-dash receiver w/ standby alert mode; Hella Raintronic auto windshield wiper system; Defroster wires on right-rear quarter window; Heated seats for rear passengers; VDC (separately optional)
I believe the "WeatherMax Package" would help solidify the Forester, and Subaru in general, as THE all-weather vehicles in the minds of the American public. Think of all the fun marketing Subaru could do.
-CD-R, CD-RW, MP3-compatible, in-dash, 6-disk CD changer (this option would be a big attention getter; potentially 400 hours of custom-recorded music!)
-Steering wheel mounted radio controls
-*Continuously* [aka the "rhino"] variable intermittent front wipers
-Variable intermittent rear wiper
-Optional gauges mounted in pods on the A-pillar, leaving the handy storage bin on top of the dash available
-Adjustable night time lighting for all driver controls and stalks
-Lighted glove box (already has this??)
-12v plug at rear of center console for back passenger use
-Even more secret hidden compartments! (is that possible?
-Fixed-beam map lights for rear passengers (doubles as baby-monitoring lights)
-Interior fuel door release
-Under-hood light
-Tom
I second all your requests, but the most important for me is to improve front seat comfort. I actually like side bolsters, but please please please make seat cushion 1-2" longer, for a better thigh support.
I actually like the power in my Forester, but would like turbo even more, sans scoop on the hood and turbo lag.
-Dan
Bob
http://www.autoweb.com.au/start_/showall_/id_SUB/doc_sub0103011/article.html
Forester wish list? I like. I'll simplify yours: toss in WRX seats as-is, the WRX engine, the aussie low range, a towing package good for 3500lbs, and a multilink rear suspension so you can move the back seat further back about 2 inches.
Seriously? That package would be invincible. Far and away the best-in-class in every way I can imagine.
-juice
Daniel
-mike
The rear suspension would be part of the redesign that's being done anyway.
So that leaves the engine (+2K or so). Let the low range ($400) and the towing package ($500 for a transmission cooler and hitch) be stand-alone options.
Fitz has Forester S Premiums for under $23k, so a nicely equipped Foreter Turbo would run $25k street price, topping out at $26k with the low range and tow package.
-juice
-mike
Aussie Soobs are not expensive, so the dual range can't cost that much.
The Forester GT costs about 10% more than a 2.0l Forester in latin american markets, and the 2.0l has to be cheaper than the 2.5l sold here. Even ignoring that the 2.0l is cheaper, I came up with the $2k.
They do have to recover design costs, and the Outback did get a price bump when it was redesigned for 2000.
Prices I'm talking are street price. The MSRP will be a little more than 10% above that, or $28-29k or so.
-juice
Remembered how people whined about the VDC pricing. It "merely" had a 6-cylinder motor, fancy radio, auto climate and a fancy braking system (VDC) extra and it costs $5,000 - $6,000 more than the Limited edition Outback.
So, will the Forester be about $5,000 more? Are we prepared to pay for that?
Daniel
Heck, that supports my argument more than it hurts it!
-juice
I doubt the seats in the WRX cost any more to make than the Forester's seats.
They cost more for sure. A whole bunch more, maybe not. But to me cost isn't the real reason the WRX seats aren't in a Forester-- the reason is the Forester's intended (and likely) use versus the WRX, and the Forester's average customer versus the WRX.
I think that with heavily bolstered buckets the Forester would draw more criticism than praise. Customers that aren't going to be carving corners--or let's be honest, are a bit ...um larger than average--are not going to like big bolsters. There would be 3-6 people complaining about the bolsters being uncomfortable and difficult to enter/exit for *each* person that liked them.
Again, this forum is not representative of the average Subaru consumer. We are serious enthusiasts, our continued participation here proves it.
-Colin
I am talking MSRP and comparing the Outback Limited with the VDC. There is no argument, merely a discussion.
Daniel
By that I mean, base a future coupe/hatchback off an existing platform, such as the Legacy or Impreza. I prefer the Legacy platform; because it is sleaker than the Impreza, and it's a bit bigger, so that it could be a true (and comfortable) 4-seater; and it has the more sophisticated and compact multi-link rear suspension.
Here's what I like about the Mercedes C230 Sport Coupe, and the approach Mercedes took:
The size is right. Actually, the Mercedes has a wheelbase that is 2.5" longer than the current Legacy. It looks shorter because of the chopped off rear. I think(?) the overall length, width and height are very close to the current Legacy sedan.
It's hatchback. I've always preferred hatchbacks to coupes because they're more useful and flexible in terms of needs. I'm glad Mercedes (and BMW with the 318ti) feel that there is a market here in the States for "premium" hatchbacks. Hatchbacks have always been popular in Europe, while here, they've always been thought of as being "low-rent," which is a shame. A hatchback also fits Subaru's "functional" and "different" image much better than that of a pure coupe.
Even though Subaru has not said anything (officially) about any future coupe, I'm as sure that we will see one in the not too distant future, as I am about the sun rising tomorrow.
I hope Subaru takes a good hard look at this Mercedes. Prices are supposed to start around $26K—the prime Subaru market area.
Pop in the H-6, or WRX engine in there, hook it up to a good 6-speed manual (standard on the Mercedes) and also offer a 5-speed tip-tronic automatic (also available on the Mercedes), and you've got a sure recipe for success. The only other thing I would hope for, is a pair of suicide doors to help us old folks get in and out of the rear.
Bob
-Juice: I’ll second your short-list Forester choices, but I’ll hold judgment on the WRX seats until I’ve had a chance to sit on them.
I agree with those worried about costs. My Forester changes/additions list is a little on the “eccentric” side. I know that one of the great selling points for the Forester is its low price. I certainly hope that continues with any new Forester.
But, would it be possible to offer most of the gadgets I propose as *options* and then group some of the biggies (low range, turbo, WeatherMax, etc.) together in a GTX (or whatever) Forester, thereby preserving the lower priced L and S models?
Oh, and I thought of a few more goodies
-Articulating headrests on front seats (meaning they tilt as well as move up and down)
-Air conditioning/heater vents at rear of center console for back passengers
-Sun visor sliding extensions
-Secondary, mini flip-down sun visors
-Tom
I wish they were located where they can be easily found/used in an instance.
This is for ALL Subarus.
Bob
Just my 2 cents.
-mike
Then again, how often do I push the cruise control turn on button? When Im ready to turn on the cruise control when no ones around is when
And since I always have the foglight button pushed it and on for when I turn on the lights, theres another non-existant problem
Besides, everything else is perfectly situated, especially the Cruise control CONTROL nob thingy... Thats in a perfect spot!
Ross
As to the cruise control "master switch," I think Toyota has the best solution. It's a button located on the very end of the cruise control stalk (which is just like Subaru's), so that "all" cruise control functions are together. It's a great solution.
BTW, I agree, fog lights are for fog, period. I will also admit to being guilty of driving with fog lights on when they shouldn't be—because the steering wheel was blocking my view to see the damn switch, indicating that the fog lights were on.
Bob
Bob, I wholeheartedly agre with you regarding those stupid buttons on the left of the steering wheel. You can not see them, the Forester is different to the Outback and you cannot see whether they are on or not. Why not put them in the central console where they can be seen. Put the cup holder where the switches are, as in the M-Class. Also move the window switches to the central console somewhere. BMW has them around the gear stick. I cannot understand what good they do on the arm rest.
There may be some reason why the product engineers designed the cars that way.
Daniel