We don’t have much in the ‘latest news’ department on the Hybrid Tourer. It still features those hot gull-wing doors and has a powertrain built on Subaru’s Horizontally-Opposed engine. Their Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system is attached to a 2.0-liter direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine and a Lineartronic transmission, optimized for “reduced fuel consumption and emission.”

Here’s a breakdown of specs for the Subaru Tourer Hybrid Concept:

* Length x Width x Height: 4,630 x 1,890 x 1,420mm

* Engine type: 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct fuel-injection turbo petrol engine

* Max output of Motor: 10kW (Front) / 20kW (Rear)

* Transmission type: Lineartronic

* Drive train: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with 2 motors assist

* Battery type: Lithium-ion battery

Subaru’s new Forester is already available in the UK and will be on American lots in no time. Until then, we look to Motor Trend, who took 2010 Forester for a ride. Equipped with a boxer diesel engine, the Forester shares “its bore centers with Subaru’s 3.0L gas six (to help reduce machining costs) but otherwise made mostly of unique parts. The twin-cam, four-cylinder mill displaces 2.0L, feeds off a common-rail fuel-delivery system, and breathes via 16 valves and a variable-nozzle turbo. Output is 145 hp at 3600 rpm but the engine makes a manly 258 lb-ft of torque at just 1800 rpm (compared with 226 lb-ft for the Forester’s 2.0L turbo gas engine).”

“Official EPA fuel economy figures of course aren’t yet available, but in Europe the Forester 2.0D is rated at an amazing 37 mpg city/highway combined. If you’re a driver who likes to pour on the miles, here’s your rig: With its 16.9-gallon fuel tank, the 2.0D has a range of more than 600 miles. Got a boat or a trailer? No problem. With the tank-like boxer-diesel, the Forester 2.0D can tow up to 4400 lb (compared with just 2400 lb for the gasoline-drinking, turbo 2.5L four in the Forester XT).”

Thanks to Motor Trend for the info! Be sure to check out the all new 2010 Subaru Forester at a dealer near you.

WRX STI Special Edition

The 2010 WRX STI Special Edition is aimed at the driving enthusiast who is willing to trade a few amenities to gain an extra measure of handling performance over the already extraordinary WRX STI. Suspension for the new version of this high-performance machine is adopted from the Japanese domestic market WRX STI spec C model, which adds a 1-millimeter thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer rear sub-frame bushings plus upgraded and retuned springs. The front springs are 16-percent stiffer, while the rear shocks have been stiffened by 29-percent.

Available in early Spring, the first 125 units of the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition will be painted in exclusive Aspen White, set off by the charcoal-colored 18 x 8.5 in. 14-spoke alloy wheels from the JDM WRX STI spec C. The WRX STI Special Edition will then become a regular production model later in 2010, available in standard colors.

The WRX STI Special Edition was developed by Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Compared with the standard 2010 WRX STI, the WRX STI Special Edition features halogen rather than HID headlights; a single-disc CD player / 4-speaker audio system instead of the 6-CD /10-speaker system; manual air conditioning in place of automatic climate control, and body color side mirrors.

All other aspects of the WRX STI Special Edition remain as on the standard model, including the 305-horsepower / 290 lb.-ft. turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine, 6-speed manual transmission and a high level of driver-selectable powertrain- and dynamic handling-control systems. The car’s bulged fenders and rear quarter panels, rear gate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic ground effects give the WRX STI a direct link to Subaru competition cars. The hood scoop, brake-cooling air intakes and engine heat outlets are all functional.

The Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which remains exclusive to the Impreza WRX STI, offers three selectable automatic performance modes in addition to six manual center differential locking settings. The WRX STI is in addition equipped with limited-slip front and rear differentials. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system features three driver-selectable positions. On all WRX STI models, the 18-in. wheels are fitted with Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 tires.

The Brembo Performance Brake System employs ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Side-curtain airbags and front seat side airbags are standard. The Incline Start Assist feature can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT

The Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept Car shows a possible future for hybrid vehicle technology and is being used to highlight Subaru’s announcement that it will develop a gas/electric hybrid system based on Subaru’s boxer engine for launch in 2012.

The most striking feature of the concept car is its unique gull-wing doors that emphasize its spacious interior. The interior highlights a grand touring concept focused on interior volume and comfort. It features four independent seats with open spaces surrounding the occupants. Through clever packaging of the AWD system, a flat floor design is created allowing increased leg room for rear seat passengers.

Powering the Hybrid Tourer is a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed direct fuel-injection turbo gasoline engine that improves fuel efficiency and reduces emissions. The turbo has been designed to improve engine responsiveness and environmental friendliness and utilizes Subaru’s Lineartronic (CVT) mated to a new Hybrid system that incorporates Symmetrical AWD. The powertrain features a unique gas/hybrid two-motor system with an electric power/drive motor in the front and another drive motor in the rear. The electric motors are powered by new high-performance lithium batteries.

The Subaru Tourer hybrid system is primarily powered a 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo, coupled with Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system. The “hybrid’ part comes from a 27 horse power motor connected to the rear axle, along with a power boost of 13 horse power up front used to generate power for the lithium battery pack. Check out all the lovely details in Subaru’s press release below.

SUBARU HYBRID TOURER CONCEPT (Concept car)

The use of a high-performance lithium battery is based on experience and know-how achieved with the Subaru Plug-in STELLA electric vehicle, launched this summer. This includes the use of a precise energy management system and regenerative brake controls, for improvements in excellent fuel efficiency.

“STELLLLLAAAA!!!”

Subaru Plug-in STELLA EV

Tokyo – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the launch of its Subaru Plug-in STELLA electric vehicle (EV), which is equipped with a high-performance lithium-ion battery. The model will be sold in Japan directly through FHI. Delivery will start from late July and around 170 units of delivery in total will be planned in this fiscal year (by the end of March 2010). After-sales services will be provided through some Subaru dealerships designated by FHI.

The Subaru Plug-in STELLA was developed based on the Subaru STELLA mini car. It combines the EV system with the compact and light body, which offers an adequate and convenient means of transportation for daily commuting. It also achieves 90km* range of driving featuring the most appropriate number of batteries required for city driving. (*Claim based on Subaru research. Driving range when driven in 10-15 mode of Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.)
The EV can be re-charged up to 80% of its capacity in 15 minutes using the quick charging system, whereas it’s also fully rechargeable in 8 hours with AC100V household power outlet or 5 hours with AC200V. The car not only offers zero CO2 emissions during driving but also dramatically reduced level of CO2 produced in the process of electric generation, compared to the petrol engine vehicle’s emissions level. The Subaru Plug-in STELLA’s new mobility combines utility, practical driving range and environmental friendliness.

The electric motor of the EV, mounted in the engine room, generates 47kW of maximum power output. The Subaru Plug-in STELLA offers powerful and smooth acceleration, making full use of the advantages of the electric motor. It generates maximum torque from the start. It also recovers inertia energy in deceleration through a regeneration system, which further enhances the energy efficiency.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail price of the Subaru Plug-in STELLA is 4,725,000 yen (including consumption tax). It was approved by the “Next Generation Vehicle Promotion Center” as a vehicle whose users are offered a subsidy of 1,380,000 yen. Additional tax reduction will also be expected due to special measures conducted by Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism.

FHI pursues the perfect integration of a pleasant and reliable driving with environmental considerations in its vehicle development philosophy. In its efforts to constantly enhance its current power unit line-up, FHI positions the EVs as one of the viable solutions and key technologies for environmental preservation, and it will further research and develop its EVs.

Subaru has their hands into the mid-size sedan market with the Subaru Legacy, a valued edition to the class. With the Legacy sporting Subaru’s trademark quality, including standard all-wheel drive, you can expect this sedan to please the palate of any purchaser.

The 2008 Legacy comes in over five different trim levels that all offer the same core technology, with some extra treats as the models go up in level. All trim levels receive a revamped grille with a winged crossbar, improved fog lights, chrome styling on some light borders, turning-signals on the side mirrors and even more. The interior cabin gets a host of new goodies for the delight of drivers and passengers alike. The SI-Drive Performance Management System allows you to switch between different “modes” of engine performance, depending on the type of ride you desire. Additional features include power windows, power locks, cruise control and further useful technologies. Higher models get leather upholstery, seat heaters, dual-zone automatic climate controls, while the highest model includes a Subaru navigation system.

Safety isn’t sacrificed for all of this convenience. Side-impact airbags and side-curtain airbags complement the frontal airbags, as well as four-wheel-disc antilock brakes. Just as safety isn’t sacrificed, the strength of this sedan holds its own as well. A standard 2.5-liter horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine is standard on Legacies, and it pairs with either a four automatic or five-speed manual transmission, both with overdrive. A powered up version of this engine that is capable of 243 horsepower is used in higher trim levels, and this uses a five-speed either automatic or manual transmission. The next level up is equipped with a six-cylinder 3.0-liter engine that produces 245 horsepower. This engine teams with a five-speed automatic. With the SI-Drive and such a vast choice of engines, you have the choice for gas mileage or better acceleration and performance.

The 2008 Legacy really shines, and it delivers a great ride with some great dexterity and versatility.

The compact car market is taken aback by the presence of Subaru’s contribution, the Impreza. This smooth and sporty model returns in 2008 wearing a new look and with plenty of trim levels to choose from.

Both the sedan and hatchback body style feature fully framed windows, upgraded wheels and rims, new styling details and more. The highest level Outback Sport trim is unique because it features a two-tone experience on the sides of the outer chassis. The inside is as spectacular as the outside. The center console holds a navigation system and the steering wheel can control various features various controls for functions of the vehicle. More features are available, especially on the Outback-Sport model. Dual-mode heated front seats and other luxurious technologies keep the occupants happy. Also inside you’ll find six airbags, an electronic stability system, antilock brakes and more!

The power source is what makes this compact wonder propel. Base models get a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine; the WRX model gets a turbocharged version of this that brings the 170 horsepower to 224. The Outback Sport model gets a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 horsepower as well. The models gat a standard five-speed manual transmission and a four-speed automatic transmission with a manual-shift mode as an option. Outback Sport models with manual transmissions receive incline start assist, disallowing backward rolling on an incline.

This car drives great, no matter what model you choose. The variety of engines and transmissions allow it to suit the style of any driver and all of the choices shine on the open road. The 2008 year brings only good things to the Subaru Impreza.

The Forester is the Subaru compact SUV of their line-up. The Forester has received “Best Small SUV” three years in a row because it provides the roominess of a conventional SUV while driving with the performance and ease of a smaller model car. The Forester truly is “SUV tough, Car Easy.”

The exterior design of the Forester has undergone some noteworthy revamps for 2008. New wheels, body-colored roof option, sleek lines and more molds into an aesthetically pleasing sensation. The interior matches the quality of the exterior. The 60/40-split folding rear seat allows the Forester to hold up to five people. For 2008, the Forester gets a supped up audio system with multiple speakers and a subwoofer for optimal the delight of passengers. Higher models get power features, climate control, heated seats and some detailing extras as a standard feature to the impressive line-up of gear.

The 2008 Forester features a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine nets a respectable 173 horsepower and teams with a five-speed manual transmission with overdrive. A higher-powered engine is available that can boost that up to 224 horsepower. The 2.5 X L.L.Bean Edition gets a four-speed automatic transmission, which is an option for the other available models.

Safety is taken care of for the 2008 Forester. Occupants are protected with both dual-stage frontal airbags and side-impact airbags. Other defense features you’ll find include antilock brakes, an ABS system with electronic brake-force distribution, a Hill Holder clutch that aids on inclines and Subaru’s Variable Torque Distribution. What this does is tap into electronic systems to optimize the allocation between the front and rear wheels.

The Forester is definitely worth a look for buyers looking for a 2008 model.