Quirk Works Subaru is where Greater Boston Subaru customers go for the best Subaru service as well as amazing prices and a great selection of new and used Subarus. Check out all the latest news from our Subaru dealer, including national Subaru headlines, specials and awards, as well as the new and upcoming models. We hope you use this information to help make the best buying decision on a new or used Subaru!
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Lasting Value Earns Subaru Outback a Nod from Kelley Blue Book
Popular All-Wheel-Drive Wagon Honored for Impressive Resale Value
November 23, 2011, Braintree, MA -- While most Massachusetts drivers like the Subaru Outback wagon for its spacious interior and all-weather-capable all-wheel drive, Kelley Blue Book says the vehicle's resale value should also grab customers' attention. The most popular vehicle at Subaru dealerships this year, the 2012 Outback earned the title of Best Wagon in the recently announced 2012 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards.
Kelley Blue Book awarded vehicles in 19 individual categories, singling out the best-of-the-best when it comes to holding value over the course of five years. Choices were based on a number of criteria, including current vehicle and sales data, market conditions, competition within vehicle segments and future economy predictions. According to Kelley Blue Book's estimates, the 2012 Subaru Outback is expected to retain 58.3 percent of its value after three years and 38.7 percent after five years of average use, meaning families should get a healthy return when it comes time to trade in for a new Subaru.
"All Subaru vehicles hold their value well, but the Outback stands above the rest with its family-friendly resume and reliability," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The Outback was rated higher than the Audi A4 wagon and the BMW 3 Series wagon, proving that a luxury brand name doesn't always mean a superior product."
Subaru has consistently evolved the Outback throughout its four generations, creating a vehicle that combines the capabilities of a midsize SUV with the fuel economy of a full-size car. That combination of performance comes from the Subaru BOXER engine, which displaces 2.5 liters and produces 170 horsepower. With its continuously variable automatic transmission, the Outback can return 29 mpg on the highway, an impressive feat for an all-wheel-drive wagon. There is also a six-cylinder engine available with 256 horsepower that returns 25 mpg on the highway.
Power and fuel economy are important purchase considerations, but when it comes to families, cargo space is typically a deal breaker. The Outback has always been known as a vehicle with plenty of storage space, and the latest model continues Subaru's emphasis on utility. Even with all its seats occupied, the 2012 Subaru Outback has 34.3 cubic-feet of cargo room, and that capacity expands to 71.3 cubic-feet of available space with the back seats folded flat.
Those that want cargo space and capability in a smaller package will likely see the appeal of the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek when it joins the lineup late next year. Previously known just as the Subaru XV, the small extra-capable wagon will be based on the body of the new five-door Subaru Impreza, but will feature a higher ride height, new wheels and protective cladding on the wheel arches and rocker panels. The vehicle is seen as a replacement for the Impreza-based Outback Sport that was discontinued for the 2012 model year.
"Subaru has served Massachusetts families for decades with useful, capable and reliable wagons," Cameron noted. "While other automakers have turned their back on the wagon, Subaru has continued to produce spacious vehicles capable of swallowing mountain bikes, ski gear or Christmas presents with ease."
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November 23, 2011, Braintree, MA -- While most Massachusetts drivers like the Subaru Outback wagon for its spacious interior and all-weather-capable all-wheel drive, Kelley Blue Book says the vehicle's resale value should also grab customers' attention. The most popular vehicle at Subaru dealerships this year, the 2012 Outback earned the title of Best Wagon in the recently announced 2012 Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards.
Kelley Blue Book awarded vehicles in 19 individual categories, singling out the best-of-the-best when it comes to holding value over the course of five years. Choices were based on a number of criteria, including current vehicle and sales data, market conditions, competition within vehicle segments and future economy predictions. According to Kelley Blue Book's estimates, the 2012 Subaru Outback is expected to retain 58.3 percent of its value after three years and 38.7 percent after five years of average use, meaning families should get a healthy return when it comes time to trade in for a new Subaru.
"All Subaru vehicles hold their value well, but the Outback stands above the rest with its family-friendly resume and reliability," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The Outback was rated higher than the Audi A4 wagon and the BMW 3 Series wagon, proving that a luxury brand name doesn't always mean a superior product."
Subaru has consistently evolved the Outback throughout its four generations, creating a vehicle that combines the capabilities of a midsize SUV with the fuel economy of a full-size car. That combination of performance comes from the Subaru BOXER engine, which displaces 2.5 liters and produces 170 horsepower. With its continuously variable automatic transmission, the Outback can return 29 mpg on the highway, an impressive feat for an all-wheel-drive wagon. There is also a six-cylinder engine available with 256 horsepower that returns 25 mpg on the highway.
Power and fuel economy are important purchase considerations, but when it comes to families, cargo space is typically a deal breaker. The Outback has always been known as a vehicle with plenty of storage space, and the latest model continues Subaru's emphasis on utility. Even with all its seats occupied, the 2012 Subaru Outback has 34.3 cubic-feet of cargo room, and that capacity expands to 71.3 cubic-feet of available space with the back seats folded flat.
Those that want cargo space and capability in a smaller package will likely see the appeal of the 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek when it joins the lineup late next year. Previously known just as the Subaru XV, the small extra-capable wagon will be based on the body of the new five-door Subaru Impreza, but will feature a higher ride height, new wheels and protective cladding on the wheel arches and rocker panels. The vehicle is seen as a replacement for the Impreza-based Outback Sport that was discontinued for the 2012 model year.
"Subaru has served Massachusetts families for decades with useful, capable and reliable wagons," Cameron noted. "While other automakers have turned their back on the wagon, Subaru has continued to produce spacious vehicles capable of swallowing mountain bikes, ski gear or Christmas presents with ease."
Subaru Works to Boost Fuel Efficiency by 30 Percent
New 36-MPG Impreza Is First of Incoming Fuel-Sipping Subarus
October 25, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Subaru is serious about increasing the fuel economy of its all-wheel-drive lineup, an effort led by the 36-mpg 2012 Impreza arriving at Subaru dealerships in November. According to a story published by Automotive News, Subaru wants to increase fleet-wide fuel efficiency by 30 percent over 2010 levels by 2015 using a mix of direct-injection and turbocharging technology, new transmissions, lightweight materials and hybrid drivetrains.
Subarus have gained a reputation for their all-wheel drive capability and reliability, but rising federal fuel economy standards have the automaker now looking to add fuel efficiency to its resume. The 2012 Subaru Impreza makes use of an all-new engine and continuously variable transmission to return the best fuel economy for any all-wheel-drive vehicle in America.
"Subaru isn't interested in nibbling at the issue of fuel efficiency; they're taking big bites," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "In one swipe, the Impreza is gaining 9 miles per gallon on the highway. That's an incredible leap forward in just one model year."
The new fuel-efficient engine on the Impreza, dubbed the FB, is Subaru's first all-new powerplant in 20 years. With less displacement than the 2.5-liter engine found in the previous Impreza, the 2.0-liter unit produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers represent a drop in power, but the 2012 Impreza accelerates as well as ever thanks to the use of lighter weight materials and revised gearing.
Subaru is expected to build off the design of its new engine, with both a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter turbocharged variant debuting next year. According to a story published by Edmunds' Inside Line, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine could produce up to 300 horsepower for a future Subaru Impreza WRX STI sports car while still increasing fuel efficiency by 10 percent compared to the current model.
As part of its new strategy for fleet-wide fuel efficiency, Subaru plans to issue one completely new model change each year until 2015. Additionally, its new XV small crossover will debut in the United States for the 2013 or 2014 model year, while the company's first hybrid drivetrain will appear in 2013. Subaru has remained quiet about which model will receive the battery-powered boost.
"Subaru is finding various ways to increase fuel economy without losing the all-wheel drive that makes its vehicles so popular with Massachusetts Subaru fans," Cameron noted. "The new Impreza is going to be very popular thanks to its unique mix of capability, quality and economy, and future Subaru models will follow the same formula."
Subaru hopes its new fuel-efficient lineup will help increase annual sales to 350,000 vehicles in the United States by 2016, up from the record 263,820 units it sold in 2010.
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October 25, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Subaru is serious about increasing the fuel economy of its all-wheel-drive lineup, an effort led by the 36-mpg 2012 Impreza arriving at Subaru dealerships in November. According to a story published by Automotive News, Subaru wants to increase fleet-wide fuel efficiency by 30 percent over 2010 levels by 2015 using a mix of direct-injection and turbocharging technology, new transmissions, lightweight materials and hybrid drivetrains.
Subarus have gained a reputation for their all-wheel drive capability and reliability, but rising federal fuel economy standards have the automaker now looking to add fuel efficiency to its resume. The 2012 Subaru Impreza makes use of an all-new engine and continuously variable transmission to return the best fuel economy for any all-wheel-drive vehicle in America.
"Subaru isn't interested in nibbling at the issue of fuel efficiency; they're taking big bites," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "In one swipe, the Impreza is gaining 9 miles per gallon on the highway. That's an incredible leap forward in just one model year."
The new fuel-efficient engine on the Impreza, dubbed the FB, is Subaru's first all-new powerplant in 20 years. With less displacement than the 2.5-liter engine found in the previous Impreza, the 2.0-liter unit produces 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. Those numbers represent a drop in power, but the 2012 Impreza accelerates as well as ever thanks to the use of lighter weight materials and revised gearing.
Subaru is expected to build off the design of its new engine, with both a 1.6-liter and a 2.0-liter turbocharged variant debuting next year. According to a story published by Edmunds' Inside Line, the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine could produce up to 300 horsepower for a future Subaru Impreza WRX STI sports car while still increasing fuel efficiency by 10 percent compared to the current model.
As part of its new strategy for fleet-wide fuel efficiency, Subaru plans to issue one completely new model change each year until 2015. Additionally, its new XV small crossover will debut in the United States for the 2013 or 2014 model year, while the company's first hybrid drivetrain will appear in 2013. Subaru has remained quiet about which model will receive the battery-powered boost.
"Subaru is finding various ways to increase fuel economy without losing the all-wheel drive that makes its vehicles so popular with Massachusetts Subaru fans," Cameron noted. "The new Impreza is going to be very popular thanks to its unique mix of capability, quality and economy, and future Subaru models will follow the same formula."
Subaru hopes its new fuel-efficient lineup will help increase annual sales to 350,000 vehicles in the United States by 2016, up from the record 263,820 units it sold in 2010.
Subaru Readies Its First Compact Crossover
New XV Utility Vehicle Will Be Based on Next-Generation Impreza
September 26, 2011, Braintree, MA -- In recent years, Subaru sold its Outback Sport as a more capable version of its compact Subaru Impreza five-door hatchback, but it never matched the off-road capability and sales success of the larger Subaru Outback wagon. The automaker hopes to accomplish those feats with the Subaru XV, which will more closely match the Outback wagon's signature 8.7 inches of ground clearance while taking on the new design and fuel efficiency of the all-new 2012 Impreza arriving at Subaru dealers in November.
Designed for "urban adventure" according to the automaker, the Subaru XV will feature 8.6 inches of ground clearance to rival the Jeep Wrangler Sport when it debuts in Europe early next year, and is expected to maintain similar numbers when it comes to the United States sometime after. The XV will offer the same new direct-injection 2.0-liter Boxer engine in the 2012 Impreza, which is capable of 36 mpg on the highway and will be the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive car in the United States.
"Subarus have always surprised people with the way they can tackle challenging terrain," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The XV is expanding the abilities of the lineup with more off-road prowess for those who choose to leave the road behind on weekends, but need a practical, fuel-efficient vehicle in the city during the week."
Aside from some unique bodywork, including gray cladding around lower parts of the car, the Subaru XV takes on the look of the new Subaru Impreza inside and out. Interior space in the 2012 Impreza increases from the previous-generation vehicle, with a stretched windshield and lengthened wheelbase opening up space and creating a more confident-looking stance.
The Impreza's legroom has increased for those in the back seat, and cargo space for the hatchback has grown by 5.3 cubic feet to nearly 50 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Those that want a luxurious feel with all that space can opt for the new Impreza Sport Limited trim, which features leather seats, an all-weather package and alloy wheels. Trunk space in the sedan model has also grown because of the smaller fuel tank, allowing the Impreza to house four golf bags, while the previous model was full at three.
Though the new Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission allows the Subaru Impreza to achieve its top fuel economy numbers for all-wheel-drive vehicles, models with the five-speed manual transmission still manage 33 mpg on the highway, a six-mpg increase compared with the outgoing model. The new engine's 148 horsepower is less than the 2011 model's 2.5-liter unit, but acceleration actually improves slightly thanks to a weight loss of roughly 160 pounds.
"The new Impreza is really going to open up the brand to a new group of people who had previously wanted the all-wheel-drive capability of a Subaru, but needed a vehicle with great fuel economy," Cameron noted. "Now, Massachusetts drivers can have the secure driving of a Subaru and fuel efficiency in an incredibly versatile package."
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September 26, 2011, Braintree, MA -- In recent years, Subaru sold its Outback Sport as a more capable version of its compact Subaru Impreza five-door hatchback, but it never matched the off-road capability and sales success of the larger Subaru Outback wagon. The automaker hopes to accomplish those feats with the Subaru XV, which will more closely match the Outback wagon's signature 8.7 inches of ground clearance while taking on the new design and fuel efficiency of the all-new 2012 Impreza arriving at Subaru dealers in November.
Designed for "urban adventure" according to the automaker, the Subaru XV will feature 8.6 inches of ground clearance to rival the Jeep Wrangler Sport when it debuts in Europe early next year, and is expected to maintain similar numbers when it comes to the United States sometime after. The XV will offer the same new direct-injection 2.0-liter Boxer engine in the 2012 Impreza, which is capable of 36 mpg on the highway and will be the most fuel-efficient all-wheel-drive car in the United States.
"Subarus have always surprised people with the way they can tackle challenging terrain," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The XV is expanding the abilities of the lineup with more off-road prowess for those who choose to leave the road behind on weekends, but need a practical, fuel-efficient vehicle in the city during the week."
Aside from some unique bodywork, including gray cladding around lower parts of the car, the Subaru XV takes on the look of the new Subaru Impreza inside and out. Interior space in the 2012 Impreza increases from the previous-generation vehicle, with a stretched windshield and lengthened wheelbase opening up space and creating a more confident-looking stance.
The Impreza's legroom has increased for those in the back seat, and cargo space for the hatchback has grown by 5.3 cubic feet to nearly 50 cubic feet with the rear seats down. Those that want a luxurious feel with all that space can opt for the new Impreza Sport Limited trim, which features leather seats, an all-weather package and alloy wheels. Trunk space in the sedan model has also grown because of the smaller fuel tank, allowing the Impreza to house four golf bags, while the previous model was full at three.
Though the new Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission allows the Subaru Impreza to achieve its top fuel economy numbers for all-wheel-drive vehicles, models with the five-speed manual transmission still manage 33 mpg on the highway, a six-mpg increase compared with the outgoing model. The new engine's 148 horsepower is less than the 2011 model's 2.5-liter unit, but acceleration actually improves slightly thanks to a weight loss of roughly 160 pounds.
"The new Impreza is really going to open up the brand to a new group of people who had previously wanted the all-wheel-drive capability of a Subaru, but needed a vehicle with great fuel economy," Cameron noted. "Now, Massachusetts drivers can have the secure driving of a Subaru and fuel efficiency in an incredibly versatile package."
Subaru Rally Team USA Conquers Mt. Washington in Record Time
Video Captures Feat During Historic Auto Road's 150th Year
August 25, 2011, Braintree, MA -- After a 10 year hiatus, the Climb to the Clouds auto race up the Mt. Washington Auto Road recently roared back to life, tempting rally teams with mixed terrain and challenging weather. Though the mountain road proved formidable, David Higgins of Subaru Rally Team USA was able to pilot his Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally car up the 7.6-mile road in 6:11.54, blitzing the prior official record set in 1998 by more than 30 seconds.
Opened in 1861, the Mt. Washington Auto Road, then called the Mt. Washington Carriage Road, is America's oldest manmade tourist attraction. For four days in late June, the mountain was alive with the staccato notes of racecar exhausts and screeching tires. While the video camera had yet to be invented when the Auto Road was constructed, this year's race was captured by countless enthusiasts and Higgins' sponsor BFGoodrich, which recently released its homage to Higgins' record-breaking run on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4TmKodpqx8).
"The Subaru WRX and Subaru WRX STI represent the result of years of rally racing experience," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The work and know-how that go into setting a new record at Mt. Washington trickles down to the vehicles we have here in our showroom. There's racing technology in every vehicle we sell."
The 2011 Climb to the Clouds event was organized by Vermont SportsCar, the group that builds Subaru rally cars used by Travis Pastrana, Dave Mirra and Higgins at events like X Games 17, and was sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of New Hampshire. Attracting racers from all over the United States and beyond, the event invited competitors to enter into five different classes, with Higgins' Subaru Impreza WRX STI competing in the Open class.
Higgins broke the record on Sunday, June 26 with his first run by a whopping 22 seconds, despite challenging weather that limited visibility. Undeterred, Higgins threw his turbocharged rally car up the mountain even faster on his second and final run of the day, besting his own time by just under eight seconds. Higgins' Subaru Impreza WRX STI even beat Travis Pastrana's unofficial run by almost nine seconds.
The record-setting car started life as a standard Subaru Impreza WRX STI available at any Subaru dealership. Street-legal rally machines on dealer lots feature technology crafted by Subaru engineers with decades of racing experience, sporting a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. While the power is impressive, the way it applies that power to the pavement is what sets the WRX STI apart from the competition. The high-performance car features a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system that allows five-second sprints to 60 mph and all-weather traction that makes the model a favorite for Boston Subaru drivers.
"The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is an impressive piece of engineering," Cameron added. "I can't think of another vehicle in this price range that combines its performance capabilities and racing DNA. It is the perfect car for Massachusetts Subaru drivers that crave a racing feel but want to still feel confident driving in New England's constantly changing weather."
According to Motor Trend magazine, the Impreza WRX will soon drop its Impreza underpinnings and name to become an even sharper-edged sports car due out sometime in 2014. The all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza is due out this fall.
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August 25, 2011, Braintree, MA -- After a 10 year hiatus, the Climb to the Clouds auto race up the Mt. Washington Auto Road recently roared back to life, tempting rally teams with mixed terrain and challenging weather. Though the mountain road proved formidable, David Higgins of Subaru Rally Team USA was able to pilot his Subaru Impreza WRX STI rally car up the 7.6-mile road in 6:11.54, blitzing the prior official record set in 1998 by more than 30 seconds.
Opened in 1861, the Mt. Washington Auto Road, then called the Mt. Washington Carriage Road, is America's oldest manmade tourist attraction. For four days in late June, the mountain was alive with the staccato notes of racecar exhausts and screeching tires. While the video camera had yet to be invented when the Auto Road was constructed, this year's race was captured by countless enthusiasts and Higgins' sponsor BFGoodrich, which recently released its homage to Higgins' record-breaking run on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s4TmKodpqx8).
"The Subaru WRX and Subaru WRX STI represent the result of years of rally racing experience," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The work and know-how that go into setting a new record at Mt. Washington trickles down to the vehicles we have here in our showroom. There's racing technology in every vehicle we sell."
The 2011 Climb to the Clouds event was organized by Vermont SportsCar, the group that builds Subaru rally cars used by Travis Pastrana, Dave Mirra and Higgins at events like X Games 17, and was sanctioned by the Sports Car Club of New Hampshire. Attracting racers from all over the United States and beyond, the event invited competitors to enter into five different classes, with Higgins' Subaru Impreza WRX STI competing in the Open class.
Higgins broke the record on Sunday, June 26 with his first run by a whopping 22 seconds, despite challenging weather that limited visibility. Undeterred, Higgins threw his turbocharged rally car up the mountain even faster on his second and final run of the day, besting his own time by just under eight seconds. Higgins' Subaru Impreza WRX STI even beat Travis Pastrana's unofficial run by almost nine seconds.
The record-setting car started life as a standard Subaru Impreza WRX STI available at any Subaru dealership. Street-legal rally machines on dealer lots feature technology crafted by Subaru engineers with decades of racing experience, sporting a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. While the power is impressive, the way it applies that power to the pavement is what sets the WRX STI apart from the competition. The high-performance car features a six-speed manual transmission and an advanced all-wheel-drive system that allows five-second sprints to 60 mph and all-weather traction that makes the model a favorite for Boston Subaru drivers.
"The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is an impressive piece of engineering," Cameron added. "I can't think of another vehicle in this price range that combines its performance capabilities and racing DNA. It is the perfect car for Massachusetts Subaru drivers that crave a racing feel but want to still feel confident driving in New England's constantly changing weather."
According to Motor Trend magazine, the Impreza WRX will soon drop its Impreza underpinnings and name to become an even sharper-edged sports car due out sometime in 2014. The all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza is due out this fall.
Subaru WRX Cutting Ties with the Impreza
Future High-Performance WRX to Split from 36-MPG 2012 Impreza
July 28, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Since 1992, the Subaru Impreza has served as the core of the sportier Impreza WRX, but that may change in the near future with a complete redesign of the WRX and the dropping of its Impreza name. According to Motor Trend magazine, Subaru will erase the Impreza moniker from the WRX range while creating a distinctly harder-edged sports car than what is currently found at Subaru dealerships.
Motor Trend reports that Subaru's sports car will receive its own name, possibly even stepping away from WRX label entirely. While the new car, due sometime in 2014, will likely keep the same platform as the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza due out this fall, the similarities are expected to end there.
"Subaru's WRX is synonymous with performance driving, and it sounds like the redesigned model will be taking that reputation to a new level," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "While Subaru may not currently compete in the World Rally Championship, a new WRX could serve as the first step toward dominating rally races around the globe. Plus, it would be an exciting addition for local drivers that like race-car-like performance on the street."
While the future of the Impreza WRX might be uncertain, the redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza is expected to become the company's core model, encompassing fuel economy, spaciousness and the automaker's signature rugged durability. Subaru engineers have managed to maintain the same exterior dimensions of the 2011 Impreza while increasing the space inside, all while utilizing lightweight materials to reduce the weight of the car by 110 pounds.
The lighter weight of the new Impreza helps close the acceleration gap left by the outgoing 2.5-liter 170-horsepower engine, which is being replaced by a new, more fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine producing 148-horsepower. These features, combined with a new Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission, allow the 2012 Impreza to get 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city, according to Subaru's estimates.
New 2012 Imprezas, like all Subarus, will still come with advanced all-wheel drive systems, making the fuel efficiency estimates even more impressive. In fact, the new Impreza is expected to be the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive car on the market when it debuts, which means New England drivers can keep their all-weather grip without any penalties at the gas pump.
"We think our customers are going to quickly fall for the 2012 Impreza, both for its efficiency and its design, but there's a lot to love about the 2011 model," Cameron noted. "The Impreza, whether it's a 2011 or 2012, contains the same all-wheel-drive technology that has made Subaru the automaker of choice for New Englanders who want to feel safe on the road no matter what the season. Our customers know that the weather here isn't always pleasant, but having a Subaru makes it bearable."
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July 28, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Since 1992, the Subaru Impreza has served as the core of the sportier Impreza WRX, but that may change in the near future with a complete redesign of the WRX and the dropping of its Impreza name. According to Motor Trend magazine, Subaru will erase the Impreza moniker from the WRX range while creating a distinctly harder-edged sports car than what is currently found at Subaru dealerships.
Motor Trend reports that Subaru's sports car will receive its own name, possibly even stepping away from WRX label entirely. While the new car, due sometime in 2014, will likely keep the same platform as the all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza due out this fall, the similarities are expected to end there.
"Subaru's WRX is synonymous with performance driving, and it sounds like the redesigned model will be taking that reputation to a new level," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "While Subaru may not currently compete in the World Rally Championship, a new WRX could serve as the first step toward dominating rally races around the globe. Plus, it would be an exciting addition for local drivers that like race-car-like performance on the street."
While the future of the Impreza WRX might be uncertain, the redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza is expected to become the company's core model, encompassing fuel economy, spaciousness and the automaker's signature rugged durability. Subaru engineers have managed to maintain the same exterior dimensions of the 2011 Impreza while increasing the space inside, all while utilizing lightweight materials to reduce the weight of the car by 110 pounds.
The lighter weight of the new Impreza helps close the acceleration gap left by the outgoing 2.5-liter 170-horsepower engine, which is being replaced by a new, more fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine producing 148-horsepower. These features, combined with a new Lineartronic CVT automatic transmission, allow the 2012 Impreza to get 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city, according to Subaru's estimates.
New 2012 Imprezas, like all Subarus, will still come with advanced all-wheel drive systems, making the fuel efficiency estimates even more impressive. In fact, the new Impreza is expected to be the most fuel-efficient all-wheel drive car on the market when it debuts, which means New England drivers can keep their all-weather grip without any penalties at the gas pump.
"We think our customers are going to quickly fall for the 2012 Impreza, both for its efficiency and its design, but there's a lot to love about the 2011 model," Cameron noted. "The Impreza, whether it's a 2011 or 2012, contains the same all-wheel-drive technology that has made Subaru the automaker of choice for New Englanders who want to feel safe on the road no matter what the season. Our customers know that the weather here isn't always pleasant, but having a Subaru makes it bearable."
Subaru Sales Up 8 Percent in 2011 Despite Supply Shortages
Greater Boston Subaru Dealership Sees Limited Impact on Inventory
June 22, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru, knows Subaru is dealing with supply issues, but his bottom line just isn't showing it. Subaru's U.S. sales are up eight percent year-over-year in 2011 despite supply issues stemming from the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan.
Subaru is reporting that shortages of its popular Impreza, Forester and Tribeca vehicles are affecting their sales, but sales of the Legacy and Outback have more than made up for any shortfall. Subaru sold 20,036 vehicles in May, of which 8,431 were units of the 2011 Subaru Outback, up 10.5 percent compared with the same month last year.
"I honestly haven't seen any real evidence of shortages ? we still have plenty of cars available," said Cameron. "We're encouraging our customers to act sooner if they want a model affected by the supply shortages, but we've been protected so far by the large inventory of Subarus we keep due to our high sales volume. We're even offering discounts on 2011 Outbacks, which continue to be a big seller with Massachusetts Subaru fans."
The Subaru Outback has been a hit since it debuted in 1995, fronted in ads by then popular actor Paul Hogan, who was better known as Crocodile Dundee. A key feature of the Outback is its increased ride height, which differentiated the vehicle from the Legacy wagon when it first hit market. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance on the current model, the Outback offers SUV-like off-road performance and no longer needs to rely on actors to boost its reputation.
The Outback has always come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, lending the car a tight grip on the road in adverse conditions. The 2011 Subaru Outback comes with a choice of two engines, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated unit that returns 29 mpg on the highway and a six-cylinder 3.6-liter horizontally opposed mill that produces 256 horsepower yet gets 25 mpg on the highway.
Outback buyers thinking of their families can rest assured knowing that the 2011 Outback, just like the Forester, Tribeca, Legacy and Impreza, was named a 2011 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This means the car earned top ratings in front, side, rear and roof strength tests, and comes standard with electronic stability control. The roof strength test evaluates rollover protection by requiring the vehicle to withstand a weight pressed into its roof equating to four times the car's weight. The Outback aced the test, holding 4.68 times its own weight.
"Subarus are popular in the Massachusetts because their all-wheel drive makes traveling through even the worst weather an easy affair," Cameron added. "The Outback combines the space and utility of an SUV with the driving dynamics and fuel economy of a car. It's a feat no other automaker has managed to pull off as well."
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June 22, 2011, Braintree, MA -- Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru, knows Subaru is dealing with supply issues, but his bottom line just isn't showing it. Subaru's U.S. sales are up eight percent year-over-year in 2011 despite supply issues stemming from the March 11 earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Japan.
Subaru is reporting that shortages of its popular Impreza, Forester and Tribeca vehicles are affecting their sales, but sales of the Legacy and Outback have more than made up for any shortfall. Subaru sold 20,036 vehicles in May, of which 8,431 were units of the 2011 Subaru Outback, up 10.5 percent compared with the same month last year.
"I honestly haven't seen any real evidence of shortages ? we still have plenty of cars available," said Cameron. "We're encouraging our customers to act sooner if they want a model affected by the supply shortages, but we've been protected so far by the large inventory of Subarus we keep due to our high sales volume. We're even offering discounts on 2011 Outbacks, which continue to be a big seller with Massachusetts Subaru fans."
The Subaru Outback has been a hit since it debuted in 1995, fronted in ads by then popular actor Paul Hogan, who was better known as Crocodile Dundee. A key feature of the Outback is its increased ride height, which differentiated the vehicle from the Legacy wagon when it first hit market. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance on the current model, the Outback offers SUV-like off-road performance and no longer needs to rely on actors to boost its reputation.
The Outback has always come standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, lending the car a tight grip on the road in adverse conditions. The 2011 Subaru Outback comes with a choice of two engines, including a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated unit that returns 29 mpg on the highway and a six-cylinder 3.6-liter horizontally opposed mill that produces 256 horsepower yet gets 25 mpg on the highway.
Outback buyers thinking of their families can rest assured knowing that the 2011 Outback, just like the Forester, Tribeca, Legacy and Impreza, was named a 2011 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This means the car earned top ratings in front, side, rear and roof strength tests, and comes standard with electronic stability control. The roof strength test evaluates rollover protection by requiring the vehicle to withstand a weight pressed into its roof equating to four times the car's weight. The Outback aced the test, holding 4.68 times its own weight.
"Subarus are popular in the Massachusetts because their all-wheel drive makes traveling through even the worst weather an easy affair," Cameron added. "The Outback combines the space and utility of an SUV with the driving dynamics and fuel economy of a car. It's a feat no other automaker has managed to pull off as well."
Subaru Pokes Fun at the Weather, Then Conquers It
May 24, 2011, Braintree, MA (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- While some people worry about the daily weather forecast, Subaru owners can rest easy knowing that their all-wheel-drive equipped vehicles will get them where they need to go, no matter what obstacles Mother Nature throws in their way. That is the message of Subaru's new ad campaign, "The World's Worst Weatherman." As the campaign gains steam, the automaker's weather-defiant vehicles continue to leave Greater Boston Subaru dealers like Quirk Works Subaru at a rapid pace, following record-setting April sales in the United States.
Subaru's campy ad campaign features the hopeless attempts of a weatherman to accurately predict the weather, making the point that weather conditions mean little to Subaru owners with grip-increasing all-wheel drive. A website dedicated to the campaign offers several tools for prospective Subaru buyers, including a calculator that shows how much time a person has spent worrying about the weather based on their age and several videos showing how Subaru's all-wheel drive system is superior to its competition.
"Subarus are sure-footed in all weather conditions because the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system puts the power where it needs to be without the driver having to think about it," said Bob Cameron, general manager at Quirk Works Subaru. "Massachusetts Subaru owners have come to rely on that confidence-inspiring grip to get them through blizzards, hail and rain - anything nature regularly throws at us here in the Bay State."
All-wheel drive has long been Subaru's hallmark, as every car and SUV it has made since 1996 has included the technology. The lasting value of its all-wheel drive helped Subaru earn the title of 2011 Best Resale Value Brand from Kelley Blue Book and top-brand honors in ALG's 2011 Residual Value Awards. The Subaru Outback was also named best vehicle in its category by both organizations.
Subaru's record-setting April saw 24,762 of its vehicles sold in the United States for a 14 percent year-over-year increase. Leading the charge was the 2011 Subaru Outback, which reaped a 23.11 percent sales increase over the same time period in 2010, totaling 9,465 units in April and 34,894 so far in 2011.
Powered by a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter boxer engine, the base-model Outback can get up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway with its continuously variable automatic transmission. The Outback's more powerful 3.6R line features a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter six-cylinder engine that provides drivers with city and highway mileage of 18 and 25 mpg, respectively.
Designed for active lifestyles, the Outback sports 8.7 inches of ground clearance and the ability to tow 3,000 pounds with the available 3.6-liter engine, or 2,700 pounds with the smaller powerplant. Interior cargo space can expand from 34.3 cubic feet to 71.3 cubic feet simply by folding the rear seats flat, which allows plenty of room for groceries or a pair of sizable dogs.
"The Subaru Outback has a lot of traits that endear it to weather-weary Massachusetts drivers," Cameron added. "It's rugged without being uncomfortable, versatile yet stable in all conditions and maintains its value by being dependable year after year."
The Impreza line-up is also growing in popularity at Subaru dealers, with an April sales increase of 15.04 percent compared with the same time period in 2010. Sales of the sportier Impreza WRX and STI more than doubled during this period.
Subaru Impreza Has Your Five-Year Plan Covered; Honored Again for Resale Value
April 19, 2011, Braintree, MA -- While most drivers study horsepower, fuel economy and sticker prices, truly savvy car buyers know that resale value is one of the biggest factors in choosing the right car. Buyers who leave Subaru dealers like Quirk Works Subaru in Braintree, Massachusetts with an Impreza WRX will be ahead of the game at trade-in time. Building on its 2011 Best Resale Value Award from Kelley Blue Book, the four-door Subaru Impreza WRX was also recently named the Best Resale Value for vehicles priced between $25,000 and $30,000 by Kiplinger's Personal Finance.
The resale values for the Subaru Impreza WRX come from Kelley Blue Book's estimates of the percentage of the original sticker price that a dealer would be willing to pay for a used vehicle after a certain period of time. The Kiplinger's Best Resale Value award recognizes the Impreza WRX for its three-year resale value of 55 percent, while the earlier award from Kelley Blue Book singled out the vehicle for its five-year resale value of 42.7 percent. Among all vehicles, the average resale value after five years is 34 percent of the original price.
"It's not surprising to see a Subaru recognized for time-tested value," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Quirk Works Subaru. "The Impreza WRX has made huge strides recently in both its design and performance quality. Massachusetts Subaru buyers who know that resale value matters just as much as purchase price and fuel economy will find everything they want in this car."
A turbocharged version of the all-wheel drive, four-door Subaru Impreza, the WRX features a 265-horsepower Subaru Boxer engine that boosts performance by 95 horsepower and raises the three-year resale value by 4 percent compared with the standard Impreza. Racing and speed enthusiasts seeking rally-worthy performance can choose the Impreza WRX STI, which is powered by a 305-horsepower engine and offers the same enhanced resale values as the WRX.
The importance of resale value in a new car can be illustrated through simple math. If a customer purchases a $20,000 car that only retains 30 percent of its value after five years, it will be worth $6,000 at trade-in time. A more expensive, higher-quality car costing $30,000 with a five-year resale value of 40 percent will be worth $12,000 at that same point in the future. The buyer of a $20,000 car may have spent $10,000 less, but that vehicle will be worth half as much as the $30,000 car after five years.
Fueled by models like the Impreza, and its growing reputation for superior resale value, design and performance, Subaru's March sales increased 46 percent over 2010. Those March sales wrapped up Subaru's best first quarter sales ever, with the automaker selling 57,494 vehicles.
"The excellent resale values of the standard Impreza, the WRX and the WRX STI prove that you do better in the long run by choosing quality when you buy," Cameron added. "The excellent resale values also mean more fun, because they show that the WRX is a car that will keep performing for years to come."
Subaru Helps Say Hello to Spring
Sponsors Flower Show and Mud Run to Hurry Winter on Its Way
March 22, 2011, Braintree, MA -- As a particularly grueling winter draws to a close, New England drivers are ready to welcome spring with open arms. So is Subaru, and the automaker is getting in the spring spirit by sponsoring the Philadelphia International Flower Show in March and the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series, which runs from April to October across the country.
"Many Subaru drivers are just the kind of outdoor enthusiasts that the Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series attracts," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "If you're planning on doing any adventuring this spring, you need to be driving something with the handling and ground clearance to tackle roads off the beaten path, and Subarus are made for just that. After being cooped up inside all winter, I know that local Subaru drivers are eager to head out and get themselves and their vehicles some exercise."
The Philadelphia International Flower Show was held from March 6 through 13. Subaru has sponsored the event for 10 years now, giving attendees an early sampling of what spring has in store. This year's theme was "Springtime in Paris," and Subaru got into the spirit of the event by presenting French-inspired displays that showcased aesthetic beauty while it educated visitors about the 2011 Subaru lineup's advancements in safety and eco-friendly technology. Subaru also offered special gifts to attending Subaru owners who presented their car keys.
The Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series is, of course, a little less dainty. Subaru has partnered with MESP, Inc. to bring mud runs to nine cities across the United States. Athletes in the races compete in 5k and 10k runs complete with fun obstacles and mud pits that need to be traversed?exactly the kind of terrain that Subaru models excel in.
The 2011 Subaru Outback is a prime example of this off-road prowess. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance to clear rocks and curbs, as well as Subaru's famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to allow the wagon to firmly grip any surface. This means that whether Massachusetts Subaru drivers are dealing with slick roads and potholes around Boston or rough terrain in the North Country, they'll be prepared.
"Versatile vehicles like the Outback perform in any season. In the winter they can get you safely to where you or your family need to be, but when the weather starts getting nice again they're perfect for getting you where you want to go," Cameron said. "Right now New Englanders are already forgetting about winter and are starting to think about their spring adventures. We're excited to help our Massachusetts Subaru customers get in these new 2011 models and go out for a mud run of their own."
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March 22, 2011, Braintree, MA -- As a particularly grueling winter draws to a close, New England drivers are ready to welcome spring with open arms. So is Subaru, and the automaker is getting in the spring spirit by sponsoring the Philadelphia International Flower Show in March and the Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series, which runs from April to October across the country.
"Many Subaru drivers are just the kind of outdoor enthusiasts that the Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series attracts," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "If you're planning on doing any adventuring this spring, you need to be driving something with the handling and ground clearance to tackle roads off the beaten path, and Subarus are made for just that. After being cooped up inside all winter, I know that local Subaru drivers are eager to head out and get themselves and their vehicles some exercise."
The Philadelphia International Flower Show was held from March 6 through 13. Subaru has sponsored the event for 10 years now, giving attendees an early sampling of what spring has in store. This year's theme was "Springtime in Paris," and Subaru got into the spirit of the event by presenting French-inspired displays that showcased aesthetic beauty while it educated visitors about the 2011 Subaru lineup's advancements in safety and eco-friendly technology. Subaru also offered special gifts to attending Subaru owners who presented their car keys.
The Merrell Down & Dirty National Mud Run Series is, of course, a little less dainty. Subaru has partnered with MESP, Inc. to bring mud runs to nine cities across the United States. Athletes in the races compete in 5k and 10k runs complete with fun obstacles and mud pits that need to be traversed?exactly the kind of terrain that Subaru models excel in.
The 2011 Subaru Outback is a prime example of this off-road prowess. It has 8.7 inches of ground clearance to clear rocks and curbs, as well as Subaru's famous Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive to allow the wagon to firmly grip any surface. This means that whether Massachusetts Subaru drivers are dealing with slick roads and potholes around Boston or rough terrain in the North Country, they'll be prepared.
"Versatile vehicles like the Outback perform in any season. In the winter they can get you safely to where you or your family need to be, but when the weather starts getting nice again they're perfect for getting you where you want to go," Cameron said. "Right now New Englanders are already forgetting about winter and are starting to think about their spring adventures. We're excited to help our Massachusetts Subaru customers get in these new 2011 models and go out for a mud run of their own."
Will 2011 Be the Year of the Subaru Impreza?
Sales Up as Buzz Builds for Next-Generation Launch
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February 22, 2011, BRAINTREE, MA... This year is shaping up to be a big one for the Subaru Impreza, with January sales up 34% and a redesigned 2012 model arriving at Subaru dealers in August. With 5 straight months of sales increases of 15% or more, the Impreza continues to win over new customers even as online buzz builds around the next-generation 2012 model.
Available as a sedan or four-door hatchback, the 2011 Subaru Impreza stands out in its class by offering Continuous All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and structural features that earned the current model a Insurance Institute for Highway Safety 2011 Top Safety Pick. While these elements are typical of larger cars, the Impreza packs its benefits into a practical, compact vehicle with a sticker price well below $20,000.
"Everyone's talking about small cars right now, but how many of those cars would you actually want to take on a long road trip, or drive during a major snowstorm?" asked Bob Cameron, general manager of Quirk Works Subaru, a Greater Boston Subaru dealer. "The Impreza may be a small car, but it doesn't feel like one when you're behind the wheel, and the all-wheel drive is a rare feature in a compact car. It's a car that can go anywhere, even if the weather gets rough."
A preview of the Impreza Design Concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show last November turned the 2012 Subaru Impreza into a hot topic for journalists and bloggers. While the current-generation Impreza has a body that says "practical transportation," the design cues in the Impreza concept suggested power and handling.
The Impreza Concept showcased a new "four-door coupe" design with bold, clean lines across its entire body. The familiar Subaru hexagonal grille remains, but it's now set inside of narrower, hawk-eye headlight enclosures and dramatic side air scoops. With front wheels set high into the body and a low, arcing roofline, the profile resembles a supercar rather than a suburban commuter.
The next-generation Impreza will feature a new 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine and a Lineartronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) to improve fuel efficiency. Adding to the vehicle's best-in-class safety features, Subaru's advanced EyeSight system, which uses front-mounted cameras to prevent collisions with objects coming at the sides of the car, is expected to be an available feature.
"We expect the new Impreza's design to surprise and impress our
customers when it hits our showroom in August, but it won't take them
long to realize that the features Subaru is known for are still there,
and even improved," Cameron added. "The Impreza has the potential to
redefine what a compact car can be with its combination of
all-conditions performance, fuel efficiency, safety and stunning looks."
2011 Subaru Outback Gets Virtual Brochure
Buyers Can Customize IIHS Top Safety Pick as They Browse
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January 20, 2011, Braintree, MA... The days of glossy, printed new-car brochures may be numbered. With an eye toward reducing its environmental impact, Subaru has taken one of the auto industry's most traditional selling tools digital, giving it a significant upgrade in the process.
A new digital brochure for the 2011 Subaru Outback, linked from the subaru.com home page, offers a level of interactivity that's impossible in print, as well as a smaller environmental impact. By encouraging buyers to choose a digital brochure over a printed one, Subaru plans to reduce its use of paper, ink and energy.
"Most car buyers start their search online, so it makes sense to give them a full brochure online," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Quirk Works Subaru, a Greater Boston Subaru dealer. "The new digital brochure has all the information that buyers need, along with some really fun interactive features that create a customized experience."
Nearly every page of the brochure features interactive content, including videos that explain the technology inside the Outback and 360-degree views of the vehicle's interior and exterior. From the very beginning, Subaru buyers can now take control of their shopping experience, using interactive tools to see how different paint and interior trim colors will look.
The brochure can also be e-mailed to a friend, posted on social networking pages like Facebook or downloaded to a computer with much of its interactive content intact. Watching the videos in the brochure requires an active Internet connection.
The digital brochure is the latest innovation from a company known for building forward-thinking vehicles. All-wheel drive and unique Boxer engines have inspired strong loyalty among Massachusetts Subaru owners, who value their vehicles' reliable handling and capability in variable New England weather conditions.
A strong focus on safety has also paid off for Subaru. At the start of the year, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded Top Safety Picks to every 2011 Subaru, making it the only automaker to earn the honor for its entire model lineup. This is the second year in a row that Subaru has enjoyed the distinction of having all of its vehicles named Top Safety Picks.
"We're coming off a record year for Subaru sales, but we're not resting on those achievements," Cameron said. "Subaru is still committed to innovative engineering and an industry-leading buying experience. The new digital brochure is another way for Subaru to show that it's in touch with its customers and their needs."
The 2011 Subaru Outback digital brochure is the first of several
planned by the automaker. Digital Forester, Impreza WRX and Impreza STI
brochures are in development, and Subaru eventually plans to have
digital brochures for all of its models.
Subaru Sees Best Sales Year Ever in 2010, Bright Future Ahead
Named Best Retail Brand for Resale Value by Kelley Blue Book
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December 16, 2010, Braintree, MA... The record number of people -- 237,126 and counting -- that bought a vehicle from a Subaru dealer in 2010 can look forward to higher trade-in values for years to come. Automobile-value publication Kelley Blue Book (KBB) has named Subaru the 2011 Best Retail Brand in their annual Best Resale Value Awards.
The honor caps a record-setting year for Subaru, which saw a 22% gain in year-over-year sales during November. The month saw new individual sales records for the Subaru Outback, Legacy sedan and Forester, as well as a 33% increase in sales for the Impreza. Year-to-date sales are up 10% over the total for all of 2009, and the company has grown brand sales by nearly 50% in just over three years.
As these new Subaru vehicles hit the streets, owners can expect them to retain their value for a long time to come, according to KBB. In naming Subaru its Best Retail Brand for resale value, KBB's expert staff of automotive analysts determined that Subaru vehicles are expected to retain the greatest percentage of their original list price after five years of ownership. While KBB attributes a large portion of Subaru's value to its history of quality construction, performance and all-wheel drive (AWD), it was the brand's "styling Renaissance" and ability to attract new customers that earned it top honors.
"Typically the cars that receive best resale value awards are low-priced, so it's noteworthy for Subaru to achieve this recognition," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealership Quirk Works Subaru. "The award speaks to the reliability of every vehicle that Subaru makes, as well as the tremendous value that customers get for the sticker price."
In addition to honoring Subaru's line for its resale value, KBB also singled out the Subaru Outback as a Top 10 Best Resale Model. Their staff cited the Outback's versatility as both a comfortable car for daily commutes and a "lifestyle statement" that takes drivers through weekends of rugged fun.
As Subaru's "go anywhere" wagon, the Outback features symmetrical AWD, 8.7 inches of ground clearance to pass on and off-road obstacles and electronic stability control that keeps the driver in command during quick maneuvers. The Outback also earned top ratings in all three of the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's crash tests.
"The more rugged areas of the country have been Outback havens for
some time, but with its new look and versatility, the Outback has become
the perfect car for Massachusetts winters," Cameron added. "It makes
messy commutes comfortable, even fun, and ensures that those weekend
trips up north are never delayed on account of a nor'easter."
Outback Sales Growth in September a Sure Sign of Looming Winter
Subaru Sees Best September Ever as New Englanders Look for Affordable AWD
October 19, 2010, Braintree, MA... Even as humid summer temperatures lingered late into September, Massachusetts Subaru buyers clearly had the approaching snow in mind while shopping for new cars. Subaru, an automaker known for producing vehicles that thrive in wet weather and difficult conditions, had its best September ever, selling 21,432 units, a 47% increase from last year. Raising the bar was the Subaru Outback, which sold 8,154 models, increasing sales 91% over the previous year.
"Massachusetts drivers finally got tired of watching Outbacks playing in the snow and decided to join the fun," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Boston Subaru dealer Quirk Works Subaru. "It's one of the most practical vehicles to own, especially here in the Northeast, and the degree of ownership shows that. Subaru's all-wheel drive keeps Boston Subaru drivers glued to the road in any kind of weather, and the Outback doesn't sacrifice fuel efficiency for extra traction."
Uncharacteristic for a vehicle that cruises in continuous all-wheel drive, the Outback earns 29 mpg/highway and 22 mpg/city in its standard 2.5i form. The great fuel economy is a perk owners will love when taking winter treks north to the White and Green Mountains.
The 2011 model is building on the success of its 2010 predecessor, which won Sport Utility of the Year from Motor Trend and a Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety. The 2011 Outback has already won U.S. News and World Report's number-one ranking in their Affordable Full-Size Wagons category.
Despite the accolades the model has received, the new Outback's MSRP increased by only $200 from the year before, maintaining the vehicle's financial appeal in difficult economic times.
"The Outback is one of the most affordable vehicles in its class," said Cameron. "You can't find another vehicle with similar capabilities in the same price range."
The 2011 Outback ships standard with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that generates 170 horsepower. As with all Subaru models, the Outback's continuous all-wheel drive maintains a solid hold on the road, with traction control and vehicle dynamics control (VDC) providing extra grip in corners and stops.
With a maximum cargo volume of 71.3 cubic feet with the rear seat lowered, the 2011 Outback has plenty of space for the next road trip. Sitting 8.7 inches off the ground, the model also rivals the ground clearance of bulkier, more top-heavy SUVs, providing more off-road and heavy-snow capabilities. A rollover sensor is standard equipment to match safety with the vehicle's bold ability.
"Winter is right around the corner, and the Outback's high sales this past month are a reflection of those cold days ahead," Cameron said. "Locals here don't want to be stuck inside by just a few inches of snow. New Englanders have things they need to get done, and the Outback will help them do it in spite of the weather."
Subaru's New Boxer Steps into the Ring
Redesigned Engine Will Debut in 2011 Forester
September 16, 2010, Braintree, MA... After 20 years of reliable service, the Subaru Boxer engine is making way for a younger, leaner model. The 2011 Subaru Forester will arrive later this year with a redesigned Boxer engine expected to boost fuel economy by 10%.
Exact specifications and EPA ratings have yet to be released, but if the new Boxer lives up to Subaru's expectations, it will average 22 mpg in the city and nearly 30 mpg on the highway. The current 2.5-liter Boxer in 2010 Forester models produces 170 horsepower, a number that should match up with the new engine's output.
Subaru plans to roll out the new Boxer in 2.0- and 2.5-liter versions to match the engines in their current vehicle lineup. The new engine will eventually replace the current version in all Subaru cars, wagons and SUVs. According to sources in Japan, the Legacy and Impreza are on the short list of Subaru models to get the powertrain upgrade next.
"This is one of the most significant changes that Subaru has ever made to its U.S. fleet," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealer Quirk Works Subaru. "This isn't a new color or new flares on the fenders; they've remade the heart of a Subaru. We think the new engine is going to be very popular in Massachusetts when buyers discover they can have Subaru's all-weather performance and still save at the gas pump."
The redesigned Boxer will have a new "trainer" to help it stay lean on fuel, as Subaru is expected to pair it with the continuously variable transmission currently found in the Legacy. Subaru may also add the automatic stop/start system that the company debuted at 2009's Tokyo Auto Show, a feature that shuts the engine off each time the vehicle stops.
The Boxer engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) are two features that Massachusetts Subaru owners have come to expect from their Subaru models over the years. The combination of a low engine profile and AWD means extra traction for off-road performance, as well as added control in the ice and snow.
"The Subaru Forester has very strong appeal as a four-season family vehicle that offers extra security during our New England winters," Cameron said. "Based on Subaru's strong history of improving on existing designs, the new Boxer engine will only enhance what people already love about their Subarus."
New government regulations requiring high fuel economy, slated to take effect in 2016, are behind Subaru's decision to rework the Boxer engine. Subaru sales remain strong, with year-to-date sales through the end of August posting a 20% increase.
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September 16, 2010, Braintree, MA... After 20 years of reliable service, the Subaru Boxer engine is making way for a younger, leaner model. The 2011 Subaru Forester will arrive later this year with a redesigned Boxer engine expected to boost fuel economy by 10%.
Exact specifications and EPA ratings have yet to be released, but if the new Boxer lives up to Subaru's expectations, it will average 22 mpg in the city and nearly 30 mpg on the highway. The current 2.5-liter Boxer in 2010 Forester models produces 170 horsepower, a number that should match up with the new engine's output.
Subaru plans to roll out the new Boxer in 2.0- and 2.5-liter versions to match the engines in their current vehicle lineup. The new engine will eventually replace the current version in all Subaru cars, wagons and SUVs. According to sources in Japan, the Legacy and Impreza are on the short list of Subaru models to get the powertrain upgrade next.
"This is one of the most significant changes that Subaru has ever made to its U.S. fleet," said Bob Cameron, general manager of Greater Boston Subaru dealer Quirk Works Subaru. "This isn't a new color or new flares on the fenders; they've remade the heart of a Subaru. We think the new engine is going to be very popular in Massachusetts when buyers discover they can have Subaru's all-weather performance and still save at the gas pump."
The redesigned Boxer will have a new "trainer" to help it stay lean on fuel, as Subaru is expected to pair it with the continuously variable transmission currently found in the Legacy. Subaru may also add the automatic stop/start system that the company debuted at 2009's Tokyo Auto Show, a feature that shuts the engine off each time the vehicle stops.
The Boxer engine and standard all-wheel drive (AWD) are two features that Massachusetts Subaru owners have come to expect from their Subaru models over the years. The combination of a low engine profile and AWD means extra traction for off-road performance, as well as added control in the ice and snow.
"The Subaru Forester has very strong appeal as a four-season family vehicle that offers extra security during our New England winters," Cameron said. "Based on Subaru's strong history of improving on existing designs, the new Boxer engine will only enhance what people already love about their Subarus."
New government regulations requiring high fuel economy, slated to take effect in 2016, are behind Subaru's decision to rework the Boxer engine. Subaru sales remain strong, with year-to-date sales through the end of August posting a 20% increase.
Subaru Promotes Research of Weather, Builds Vehicles to Handle It
Sponsors 10th Annual Seek-the-Peak Fundraiser at Mount Washington
August 17, 2010, Braintree, MA... New Hampshire's Mount Washington is home to some of the most severe weather on the planet, which makes Subaru, a leader in building vehicles that tame the elements, an apt sponsor for the 10th annual Seek-the-Peak Hike-a-Thon Fundraiser. The event raised $197,000 to support weather monitoring at Mount Washington Observatory.
In place since 1932, Mount Washington Observatory is one of the United States' leading centers for weather observation...(Read more)
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August 17, 2010, Braintree, MA... New Hampshire's Mount Washington is home to some of the most severe weather on the planet, which makes Subaru, a leader in building vehicles that tame the elements, an apt sponsor for the 10th annual Seek-the-Peak Hike-a-Thon Fundraiser. The event raised $197,000 to support weather monitoring at Mount Washington Observatory.
In place since 1932, Mount Washington Observatory is one of the United States' leading centers for weather observation...(Read more)
Subaru Posts Record Sales for First Half of 2010
"New England College Car" Gaining Mainstream Appeal
July 20, 2010, Braintree, MA... Subaru continued to set new U.S. sales records throughout the first half of 2010, selling 125,960 vehicles through June 30 for a year-to-date sales increase of 35%. Record June sales of 21,601 vehicles were led by the Subaru Outback SUV, which saw sales rise 76% over June 2009 and year-to-date sales growing by 117%. Massachusetts Subaru dealers are noticing the growth in customers firsthand.
"The strength in Subaru sales shows that car buyers are putting performance and function ahead of gimmicks and design," said Sean Ternullo, general manager of Quirk Works Subaru in Braintree, a Greater Boston Subaru dealer...(Read more)
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July 20, 2010, Braintree, MA... Subaru continued to set new U.S. sales records throughout the first half of 2010, selling 125,960 vehicles through June 30 for a year-to-date sales increase of 35%. Record June sales of 21,601 vehicles were led by the Subaru Outback SUV, which saw sales rise 76% over June 2009 and year-to-date sales growing by 117%. Massachusetts Subaru dealers are noticing the growth in customers firsthand.
"The strength in Subaru sales shows that car buyers are putting performance and function ahead of gimmicks and design," said Sean Ternullo, general manager of Quirk Works Subaru in Braintree, a Greater Boston Subaru dealer...(Read more)
Parents Pile Praise on 2010 Subaru Legacy
Parents Magazine, Edmunds Name Sedan as Top Family CarJune 24, 2010, Braintree, MA... For the second year running, consumers have picked the Subaru Legacy as one of the best family cars. Parents magazine and Edmunds.com used a combination of feedback from vehicle owners and test drives to compile the annual list of the most family-friendly vehicles.
Only cars with anti-lock brakes and front, side and side-curtain airbags were considered. These safety features are standard on all Subaru Legacy models, along with Subaru All-Wheel Drive...(Read more)