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Subaru WRX hatchback mule spotted

Despite on-again, off-again rumors, this latest set of spy shots seems to indicate that yes, a five-door Subaru WRX is indeed in the works. Subtlety is key with this test mule, but there are clear bits of evidence that indicate a hotter hatchback is what's being developed here.
First, notice the WRX-spec front fascia grafted onto this ordinary-looking Impreza hatch. From there, we can clearly see the tiny bit of added width - most obvious on the roof and at the rear, near the fuel door and taillamps. And of course, let's not forget about that bulge in the hood, consisting of a metal panel that covers the hood scoop and can apparently be removed thanks to a series of screws, according to our spies. The WRX's more robust exhaust and larger wheel/tire package have not been added to this mule, though we're told that this is commonplace for Subaru prototypes - those bits should be added on as the car's development progresses.
We fully expect a WRX hatchback to be, well, just that - mechanically, it should be identical to the sedan brethren, though our spies indicate that Subaru could be testing an updated version of the WRX-spec boxer engine. Of course, there's always a chance that this could be something else entirely, given the on-and-off reports of the five-door 'Rex's existence in the first place...

Pontiac Aztek enjoys rebirth thanks to Millennials

Apparently, Millennials – those between 18 and 34 – aren't afraid to look different on the road, and they like performance, too. A new study by Edmunds is discovering some surprising vehicle choices by this group. Among them, the long-derided Pontiac Aztek is getting a new day in the sun with 25.5 percent its buyers coming from this generation in the first half of 2015. For comparison, Millennials represent an average of 16.8 percent of used car purchases. The Aztek is slowly shaking its reputation as a styling abomination, which seems tied to its appearance on Breaking Bad. The show premiered in 2008, and the Pontiac has been on this list for four of the past five years, according to Edmunds. It even led the pack in 2010. A recent Retro Review from MotorWeek also showed that the crossover wasn't always so hated. While it's still a shock to see the Aztek on any popularity list, the awkward-looking crossover only ranks sixth among Millennials. The vehicle with the biggest portion of buyers from the generation is the Dodge Magnum with 27.6 percent. According to Edmunds, the bluntly styled wagon is especially popular in Detroit and Chicago. The Chrysler Pacifica comes in a close second at 27.3 percent. When it comes to used cars, value and utility appear to trump just about anything else for many Millennial buyers," Edmunds analyst Jeremy Acevedo said in the report. Young buyers aren't afraid of sporty rides, either. The Subaru WRX has 26.4 percent Millennial buyers to rank third place on the list, and the Volkswagen R32 takes fifth at 25.7 percent. Just a few points lower in seventh place is the Nissan GT-R at 25.4 percent, and the final performance machine in 10th place is the Lexus IS-F with 24.7 percent. Related Video:

2018 Subaru Crosstrek still gets a manual transmission in the US

When Subaru revealed the next generation Crosstrek, known as the XV in Europe, at the Geneva show, the company only announced the inclusion of a CVT. Fortunately, American Crosstrek buyers will still have the option to operate a clutch and shifter for themselves. It even comes with an extra gear compared with the previous generation, for a total of six cogs. The 6-speed manual will be standard equipment on base and Premium Crosstrek 2.0i models. Subaru's offering of a manual will also allow drivers to make the most of the 152 horsepower the direct-injected 2.0-liter engine makes. However, if you do still desire an automatic option, the European CVT is available as an option on base and Premium trim. It's also standard on the Limited model. The CVT can be manually shifted, too, with seven set ratios to choose from. Only the CVT is available with Subaru's "X-Mode," which incorporates hill-descent control. Regardless of configuration, every Crosstrek comes with standard alloy wheels and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Moving up to Premium adds a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, along with an option for a sunroof. The decked-out Limited model comes with LED headlights that illuminate corners, power leather seats, keyless entry and start, and a larger 8-inch infotainment screen. Subaru also offers various driver assists on different trims including the EyeSight system with adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. Pricing for the Crosstrek hasn't been announced, but the model will arrive at dealers this summer and will be on display at the New York auto show. Related Video: