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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
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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
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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