All posts tagged subaru

5 Reasons to Choose the Subaru Crosstrek Over Its Competition

subaru crosstrek

Sedan-based crossovers are the current flavor of the season, and for good reason. For car buyers looking at comfort and mileage for a city commute along with the ruggedness and power of an off-roader, a crossover is a wonderful choice.

A crossover like the new Subaru Crosstrek however, is a league apart within this category.

World-renowned Subaru engineering, a captivating design, upgraded suspension along with superior on-road performance, and intelligent features will make you fall in love with this vehicle. All this and more put Subaru miles ahead of competitors in the category.

Let’s take a look at five reasons to choose the Subaru Crosstrek over its competition.

Fuel Economy

The Crosstrek is equipped with a Subaru Boxer engine, providing more balanced, predictable handling and a smoother, quieter ride due to its unique, horizontal layout. It is a 2.0-liter four cylinder engine offering 152 horsepower and 145 lb.-ft of torque.

Wit this engine on the 6-speed manual transmission, the Crosstrek will get an EPA-estimated 23 miles per gallon when your driving in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. However, if you opt for the Limited version, you’re Crosstrek will have the Lineartronic CVT Transmission. When driving in automatic mode this transmission naturally adjust to match your acceleration, eliminating the need to shift and preserving the vehicle’s momentum. This added touch jumps your expected mpg to 27 in the city and 33 on the highway.

In comparison, the Toyota RAV4, Jeep Compass, Nissan JUKE, and Honda BR-V (CVT grade), to name a few, rep comparatively lower numbers.

All-Wheel Drive System

On cars with a manual transmission, the AWD system uses a mechanical viscous coupling center differential that evenly distributes power 50:50 front to rear. Models equipped with the CVT automatic use a more advanced electronic system that can vary torque distribution for better traction. The result either way is a superior grip on road or off-road surfaces, with maximum power, fuel efficiency, and safety guaranteed.

The key difference between the Subaru Crosstrek and its competitors is that Subaru offers the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard on every single grade. This feature is available at an extra cost on other car brands, or isn’t even available as an option in some cases.

Ground Clearance

One of the ways Subaru has set itself apart with the Subaru Crosstrek is also its superior ground clearance. With 8.7 inches of ground clearance and available X-MODE® with Hill Descent Control — which electronically optimizes the engine, transmission, and other systems for increased traction in slippery conditions — Crosstrek ensures a superior driving experience even on uneven surfaces.

The ground clearance puts it higher off the ground than a Chevrolet Tahoe, and matched up with the heavier, shorter Jeep Renegade. Add to that a suspension that soaks up all the bumps, ruts, and rocks you may encounter very comfortably.

Customization & Comfort

The smartly designed 2019 Crosstrek provides a surprisingly spacious interior with up to 100.9 cubic feet of passenger volume in a compact SUV that remains agile and conveniently sized. A wide rear gate opening makes bigger gear easier to load and with 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, you can fit three in the back with both rear seat-backs up, or fold a seat down for extra cargo space.

The end result is that the Subaru Crosstrek provides more head, leg, and shoulder room than its competitors the Honda HR-V, Jeep Renegade, Nissan JUKE, Toyota RAV4, the difference being significantly more so in some case. It also provides more trunk space than most, along with standard roof rails in all grades.

STARLINK Multimedia with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Pandora integration comes standard on the 2019 Crosstrek. Wireless pairing and hands-free smartphone operation allow for safe and easy connection to your favorite apps and content.

Also available is an inbuilt TomTom navigation system, along with an 8-inch touchscreen. 18-inch alloy wheels and a Harman Kardon Premium Audio system are available on the Limited trim.

Safety

Subaru has a long-standing dedication and commitment to top-level safety in each and every vehicle built. Every Crosstrek is equipped with stability control, electronic traction, and anti-lock brakes. There is also a rearview monitor plus a total of seven airbags including front, front side-impact, front and rear side curtain, and driver’s knee airbag.

The 2019 Crosstrek offers the newly updated STARLINK Safety and Security system. This advanced technology helps keep you and your Subaru safe whether you’re in your vehicle, at your computer, or on your mobile device. This is standard on the Premium and Limited trims.

The Subaru Crosstrek also features a surfeit of safety options, including Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and automatic pre-collision braking. Headlights with steering-response and high-beam assist are available to help drivers see in low to no light conditions, while reverse automatic braking helps avoid accidents to a large extent.

Both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the independent Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) both presented the 2019 Crosstrek top marks in almost every category during crash tests. With a 5-star overall rating from the government and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS when equipped with the EyeSight system, the Subaru Crosstrek is one of the most recognized and safest vehicles in the category.

With all of these features, the Subaru Crosstrek trims still come at a price point that is highly competitive, making it one of the most financial responsible choices as well. Add to that Subaru’s reliability and the promise of a top-quality service and you’ve got yourself an absolute winner.   

So are you ready for test drive? Try out the 2019 Subaru Crosstrek today. It’ll be worth you time! 

Five Of The Best Cars To Consider For Your Ultimate Road Trip

Whether you’re doing some soul searching this summer or a much awaited family vacation, the right car makes sure you get from point A to point B at the most comfortable and safest means possible. If you plan on renting or buying a new vehicle soon, read on further as we discuss the top choices for the ultimate road trip experience.

Volkswagen Golf

If you are highly concerned about gas bills adding up during your travel, a fuel-efficient car like the 2015 Volkswagen Golf SportWagen TDI is a suitable option. For a base price of $21,000, you get a 150-horsepower turbocharged engine with clean direct-injected diesel. You’ll also get your money’s worth with a 12-way power driver seat and smart air conditioning system.

Mitsubishi Outlander

If you want to travel in style but is also with company, the 2016 Mitsubishi Outlander is one of the few choices large enough to accommodate both needs. The third row can be unfolded to cater for more passengers or left flat to load cargo. The car also provides an optional back-seat entertainment system with its 9-inch monitors and an auxiliary input from which you can listen.

Toyota Rav4

A brand staple in any top list, Toyota has been offering the market a slate of high-end, innovative vehicles bred for the road. This is something embodied by the 2016 Rav4, a front-wheel drive sports utility vehicle with 6-speed AT transmission and powered by a 4-cylinder with dual VVT-i engine. It makes for a good SUV on the road because of the roomy interior for passengers and cargo, but keep in mind it does not have any engine upgrade options. If this is the vehicle that will work best for you, check out Milton Ruben Toyota for some of the best prices.

Subaru Legacy

When it comes to safety, few brands can compete with Subaru. The 2016 Subaru Legacy is a good choice for the ultimate road trip experience. It combines powerful hardware with its 2.5-liter 175-horsepower engine and software with its Starlink system, which connects all your messages, apps, and travel updates in one easy-to-access smartphone app.

Chrysler Town & County

Although slightly pricier than the other choices on this list, at $30,000, the 2015 Chrysler Town & County definitely commands such price. The car comes with three rows o seating for large families or group of friends. Air bags, power lift gate, and a rearview camera are all included with the model.

Take your pick from these five top car choices for long road trips. These vehicles will all have pros and cons, so be sure you know what features you are prioritizing.

2014: Best Family Cars with the Newest Safety Features

Finding a family vehicle that can fit the needs of every occupant, should also take safety into consideration. Several safety technology features are available in vehicles today, and the following represent some of the greatest advancements for the 2014 lineup of vehicles.

2014 Honda Odyssey

The 2014 Honda Odyssey van boasts exceptional cargo room for large road trips and growing families. It also features one of the highest safety ratings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Five stars of overall rating can be tied with the body structure and traction control system. Honda uses a structure known as the ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) structure that distributes energy from a crash throughout the car to reduce stress in one crumple zone. 

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Passengers will also be alerted and prepared for any collision. The Forward Collision Warning System uses a small camera to detect vehicles in front and activates a visual alert. The vehicle also engages in a dual-stage airbag system that inflates at different rates depending on the impact of the collision.

2014 Subaru Outback

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The Subaru Outback is a sporty and adventurous vehicle with plenty of safety features for growing families. The 2014 model features electronic stability control features that engage preemptively in rough terrain with the Eyesight Camera. Airbags are placed throughout the vehicle in the case of a potential rollover event.

2014 Volvo S80

Volvo has a long history of safety milestones, and the S80 is no exception. This large sedan is the perfect car for good fuel economy and road safety in one package. Enhanced crash protection include additional overhead and side impact airbags to prevent injury in the event of a rollover accident. 

The car also features a stability control system that can sense when the vehicle is undergoing stress, and reduces engine power to prevent a collision. Occupants will also rest assured when airbags go off. The anti-whiplash head restraints cradles the neck to prevent injury in a typical front collision incident.

2014 Mazda CX-5

The new Mazda CX-5 is a crossover vehicle with plenty of room and safety control for smart driving. According to Yearwood & Company Surrey lawyers, the vehicle supports additional smart braking procedures that engage in rough city traffic. Emergency notification will also automatically dial 911 when necessary in the touring models. A unique feature of this vehicle is the foldaway brake pedal that folds away on impact to protect the brakes from damage.

Whether your family is looking for off-road adventure, or a fuel-saving vehicle with stylish flair, there is a vehicle with plenty of safety features available. Consider test driving one of these vehicles today and find out if it’s a good fit for your family.

Images courtesy: Volvo | Honda | Subaru

Which Models Will Stand the Test of Time? 5 Cars that Are Known to Last The Longest

When it comes to choosing a car, most drivers want something reliable, durable, and something they can drive for the next 7 or 8 years. When you’re trying to find a car that will stand the test of time, consider factors like durability, design, and mileage. With that in mind, check out these five models that are proven to last and are top consumer picks.

Toyota Corolla Eco

The Toyota Corolla comes highly recommended  not only because it’s a great mid-size car but also due to the good mileage it offers. A new Corolla can get 42 mpg on the highway and 30 mpg in city driving. Corollas are known to excel in the durability department and can go strong for 200,000-300,000 miles or more when properly cared for. The maintenance cost of a Corolla is not overly expensive, making it one of the top picks for those who want a car to stick with them through the years.

Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza station wagon is another great choice for a long-lasting car that has gotten high consumer ratings. It offers 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city. This car can also go well over 200,000 miles and is known for its solid engine. Regular low-cost maintenance will keep it going, and the Impreza is a consumer favorite because it holds up well overall. When you don’t have to pay a ton in maintenance costs, its much easier to care for your car on a more regular basis.

Volkswagen Passat

If you watched the 2014 Superbowl, you might remember a fun little commercial done by Volkswagen boasting that VW has the most cars on the road over 100,000 miles—obviously a VW needs to make this list of most durable cars. Passat owners are happy with this zippy little model that sticks with them through thick and thin, lasts through their kids’ childhood, and accompanies them on countless family road trips. Volkswagen cars enjoy long lives for many reasons, the actual structure of the car being one major contributor. Engineers use laser seam welding to create a stronger frame for the car, and hot wax flooding is used to keep the car from corroding too fast.

Honda Accord

Another good option when you’re looking for longevity is the Honda Accord. It’s built well, and with routine maintenance will “go the distance” so to speak. Accords are notable for interiors that stay intact and keep a nice look as well. Their mileage isn’t too shabby either, with 34 mpg on the highway and 24 mpg in the city. They frequently last up to 300,000 miles, making them a reliable and obvious choice for plenty of consumers.

Toyota Prius

This is one of the top picks today for longevity and economy. The Prius goes an incredible 51 mpg on the highway and 48 mpg in the city, making it extremely fuel efficient. It can last for 300,000 miles with the proper care and maintenance. However, the battery is guaranteed to last at least 8-10 years, or 100,000 to 150,000 miles before needing replacement. As you can see, one of the keys to a long-lasting vehicle is easy and inexpensive maintenance, both of which the Prius can offer you.
These are five of the top vehicles to keep in mind when you’re shopping for a ride that will give you the longest service with minimal upkeep and maintenance. Some people enjoy trading in for a new model every year or two, but many people want to find a car they like and stick with it for as long as possible. If you’re the type of driver that wants to use a vehicle for all it’s worth before purchasing a new one, make sure you make the right choice from the beginning. Choosing a car that has proven it’s ability to stand the test of time, but that has also won a place in the hearts of consumers will ensure that you have a better chance of keeping the car throughout the years and getting your moneys’ worth for it.

AUTHOR BIO: This article was written by Dixie Somers, a freelance writer who loves to write for business, finance, women’s interests, and technology. Dixie lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. Information for this article was provided by the auto professionals of National Transmission, who specialize in red deer transmission repair.