2022 Subaru Impreza on 2040-cars

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Subaru introduces special BRZ and WRX STI models in Tokyo

Subaru has given its BRZ and WRX STI models some more of that Subaru Tecnica International feel. A special JDM model of each was presented at the Tokyo Motor Show. The BRZ gets a STI Sport range-topper version, which Subaru says is sharper and more responsive thanks to a stiffer front suspension and new "V-braces", along with STI-tuned Sachs dampers. The 18-inch wheels are bespoke to the model version, and the interior has been given a smarter once-over with two-tone shades. In addition, there is a Cool Grey Khaki edition, which will be limited to 100 units and the lucky buyers will be picked by a lottery. No matter how special the BRZ STI Sport is, the power figures are unchanged from the stock 197 horsepower. The S208, based on the WRX STI, will now be Subaru's high-performance king on offer. Following the S207 unveiled in 2015, the S208 is more powerful and has a lower center of gravity thanks to a carbon roof. The power output is 329 horsepower instead of 323, and the STI-enhanced parts include what Subaru calls a DampMatic II front suspension and active torque vectoring both front and rear. Wheels are BBS-built in 19-inch size, brakes are Brembo. There will only be 450 S208 models made, and they will be Japan-only; also on offer is a Nurburgring-themed NBR Challenge Package in 350 units. The editions will be separated by color options: the regular S208 is available in blue or white, and the NBR can be had in the pictured Cool Grey Khaki as well. Related Video:

Another 'Baby Driver' Subaru WRX goes up for auction

We saw one of the "Baby Driver" Subaru Impreza WRX stunt cars sell last year for nearly $70,000. That was a bit nutty, but now there's another one up for auction, listed on Live Auctioneers. Just like the first, it's a red 2006 WRX Limited with a 2004 STI engine and rear-wheel-drive conversion. This means it has the 2.5-liter boxer engine instead of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder. All of the modifications were done by All Pro Subaru with a total of five cars receiving the special treatment. Beyond those mods, there's an upgraded rear differential, but that's pretty much it. If you've seen "Baby Driver," then you know how pivotal a role this car played in making the movie great. The opening chase scene is the most iconic of the whole movie — we've dropped the video of it in this post if you haven't seen it or just want to watch the awesome driving again. It's such an admirable scene because all the driving stunts are real. No special effects or CGI went into trying to make it any more than what it actually was. This content is hosted by a third party. To view it, please update your privacy preferences. Manage Settings. This particular car has a lot of miles on it: 156,477 to be exact. For most Subarus of the WRX variety, this many miles pretty much guarantees you'll be paying for repairs in no time. This being a movie car means it's been driven pretty hard too; just watch the movie and you'll see what it's been through. The bid is sitting at $20,000 now, way less than the $69,100 the first one sold for. As a reference, WRX STIs of the same heritage and similar miles are listed anywhere between $10,000-$20,000. You won't end up buying this car because it's a great value, but rather, to be able to point out to your friends you have "that car" every time you watch the movie. The rear-wheel-drive conversion is pretty sweet too — that makes it more distinctive than it would be otherwise. Related video: Featured Gallery Baby Driver Subaru WRX Celebrities Subaru Auctions Performance Sedan baby driver

Honda, Subaru airlifting parts to bypass port labor diputes

It should be abundantly obvious that a vital element in building cars is actually having the components on hand to assemble them. A labor dispute on the West Coast between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and management is not making that quite so easy for some Japanese automakers. Work slowdowns at the ports have pushed Honda and Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries into flying some parts into the country. The two automakers began shipping by airplane late last month to avoid production delays, according to Bloomberg, but it has been an expensive solution. Subaru's chief financial officer said the decision cost around $60 million more per month than sending components by cargo ship. They aren't the only companies dealing with the problem, either. Toyota reportedly stopped overtime assembly at some of its factories here because of the delays in getting parts, according to Bloomberg. The dockworkers have been negotiating on a new contract since May 2014, and the current offer on the table to them has offered a 3 percent raise, according to Bloomberg. Although, the union is reportedly considering another slowdown at 29 ports along the West Coast in the coming days. News Source: BloombergImage Credit: Nick Ut / AP Photo Auto News UAW/Unions Honda Subaru Toyota shipping port labor dispute