USA - The US gets a limited 500 units each of the Subaru WRX STI Type RA & BRZ tS

Subaru of America, Inc. has announced two new performance models: the 2018 Subaru WRX STI Type RA and 2018 Subaru BRZ tS. Both are performance focused derivatives engineered by Subaru Tecnica International, Inc. specifically for driving enthusiasts. Each vehicle is limited to 500 units and vehicles will arrive at Subaru retailers in early 2018.

WRX STI Type RA

The RA designation stands for “Record Attempt” and has been applied to various Subaru performance models. The original venture took place in 1989 when a competition version Subaru Legacy broke the FIA World Speed Endurance Record by clocking over 62,000 miles in 18 days and set a top speed record of 138 mph. Furthering this spirit of endeavor, a special race model WRX STI Type RA NBR Special will attempt a Nürburgring speed record this summer.

In keeping with this tradition, the 2018 WRX STI Type RA delivers increased performance through weight reduction, suspension and engine upgrades. The new, numbered limited edition model comes standard with a carbon fiber roof panel, the removal of the spare tire, a carbon fiber pedestal wing and lightweight BBS® 19-in. forged alloy wheels shod with 245/35R19 Yokohama Advan Sports tires.

Powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine, the limited edition WRX STI Type RA increases horsepower to an estimated 310hp with the help of an STI-specified new cold air intake and high flow performance exhaust. A retuned ECU and stronger pistons also contribute to the increased engine performance. The six-speed transmission features a revised 3rd gear ratio paired with a short throw shifter. The weight reduction, additional horsepower and revised gearing all contribute to faster acceleration.

Handling has been upgraded with inverted front struts and rear double wishbone suspension all with Bilstein® dampers. A modified multi-mode VDC gives the car better stability control to keep it on its intended path. The Brembo® brake system, with monoblock 6-piston front calipers and dual-piston rear calipers, features an exclusive silver finish and is paired with cross-drilled rotors for better heat dissipation.

The WRX STI Type RA is immediately identified by an exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accent around both the front mesh grille and new rear bumper cover. An STI front underspoiler has also been added for better stability at high speeds. The exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, a roof-mounted shark fin antenna and STI fender badges now come in a black finish. The rear deck lid displays the WRX STI Type RA badge.

In addition to the eye-catching exterior, the WRX STI Type RA cabin features Recaro® performance design front seats with red bolsters and stitching as well as an embossed STI logo on the head restraints. The signature red stitching and accent trim is visible throughout the cabin. The steering wheel is wrapped in Ultrasuede® for better grip and has a black gloss-finish center spoke insert with STI logo. Push-button start with Keyless Access is also standard equipment. Each of the 500 WRX STI Type RA produced for retail sale has been individually numbered with a plaque mounted on the center console.

BRZ tS

The 2018 BRZ tS (tuned by STI) delivers the highest level of “fun to drive” and “pure handling delight” through greater flexibility, better control and stability.

BRZ is renowned for its ultra-low center of gravity and precision handling, and the new BRZ tS adds STI-tuned front and rear SACHS® dampers and coil springs as well as flexible V-braces in the engine compartment. New draw stiffeners are added to the chassis and sub-frame to improve steering response. 

The BRZ tS is also equipped with 18-in. lightweight STI wheels (the first time that a BRZ has been offered with 18-inch wheels) mounted with 215/40 R 18 Michelin Pilot® Sport 4 tires for superior grip and quicker turn-in. Brembo® brakes at all four corners round-out the package.

The exterior also adds a more aggressive look with an exclusive STI rear carbon fiber spoiler. The spoiler is manually adjustable to fine-tune rear downforce. The addition of STI front, rear and side underspoilers helps control airflow for better traction and stability.

The BRZ tS is also adorned with an exclusive Cherry Blossom Red accent around the front grille and unique rear bumper cover. The rear hatch displays the official BRZ tS badge. The exterior foldable mirrors, roof-mounted shark fin antenna, BRZ and SUBARU badging all have a black finish. Also, the fog lights have been removed and replaced with STI fog light covers.

The cabin features black leather and Alcantara® upholstery with contrasting red stitching and accents throughout the interior, including steering wheel, door and dash panels, knee pads, shifter and emergency brake boots. front seats have red leather bolsters and the seatbacks are embroidered with the tS logo. 

The visor over the gauge cluster is unique to this model, as is the interior door trim. The center console has been updated to a cast black finish. The BRZ tS also comes standard with red front seat belts and a frameless interior rear view mirror.

Both the 2018 WRX STI Type RA and BRZ tS will be available in WR Blue Pearl, Crystal Black Silica and Crystal White Pearl. Both models will be distributed throughout Subaru’s retailer network beginning in the first quarter of 2018.

Exact specifications and pricing will be announced later this year.

USA - The updated Forester from Subaru has been launched in the United States of America

• New 2.5i Forester Black Edition Package added to line-up
• Active Torque Vectoring now standard on 2.0XT Touring
• Touring Models feature EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology as standard
• EyeSight®-equipped models gain High Beam Assist and Reverse Auto Braking

Subaru of America, Inc., which this month posted its 65th consecutive month of record-breaking sales, today announced pricing on the 2018 Forester models. It is also the introduction of the new 2.5i Black Edition package. New Foresters will arrive into retailers Summer 2017.

The 2018 Forester 2.5i is available in standard, Premium, Limited and Touring trims and is powered by a 170-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder BOXER engine. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard for the 2.5i and 2.5i Premium, with optional Lineartronic® CVT. The Forester 2.0XT is available in Premium and Touring trims and powered by a 250-hp 2.0-liter intercooled, turbocharged 4-cylinder BOXER engine. 

All Forester models come standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. Subaru has continued advancing the outstanding features of this model line with safety, comfort, durability and drivability as the top priorities. Currently the brand’s best-selling model, the well-equipped 2018 Forester has a starting price of $22,795.

The stylish front bumper cover and hexagonal grille of the Forester are accentuated by Subaru’s signature C-shaped headlight design with black inner bezel, while the rear combination lights also feature a prominent C shape with LED illumination. Combined, these styling and lighting elements provide excellent forward visibility along with a more robust and distinctive look.

The nicely appointed 2018 Forester 2.5i Premium has a starting price of $25,695. In addition to a panoramic power moonroof, Premium trim features include 17-inch alloy wheels, X- Mode with Hill Descent Control on CVT models, automatic HVAC controls, body color rear roof spoiler and a 10-way power driver’s seat. 

A power rear gate with auto close and height memory is available on Premium Foresters equipped with EyeSight®. An All-Weather Package including heated exterior mirrors, heated front seats and windshield wiper de-icer comes standard on Premium trim and above.

A new Forester 2.5i Black Edition package is an upgrade from the 2.5i Premium, with Lineartronic® CVT featuring paddle shifters previously available only on turbo models that control a 6-speed manual mode. The package also comes standard with X-Mode and Hill Descent Control and LED Steering Responsive Headlights. 

The Black Edition rides on 18-inch black alloy wheels; fog lights with black accent trim; black finish exterior badges and mirrors; and a front grille with blacked-out wing motif and chrome frame. The package is offered on 4 exterior colors: Crystal Black Silica, Dark Gray Metallic, Crystal White Pearl and Ice Silver Metallic. 

The exclusive black cloth upholstery seats with simulated leather bolsters are complimented by a silver metallic and black gloss finish center dash panel. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift handle are highlighted with silver stitching and the interior door handles have a chrome finish. All-Weather Package, rear cargo tray and Welcome Lighting all come standard with the Black Edition. The 2.5i Forester Black Edition is available exclusively on Premium trim as a $1,150 option package.

Limited trim upgrades to silver metallic with gloss black finish center dash panel trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift lever handle. Perforated leather-trimmed upholstery and a 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar support are also included with this trim level. Blind Spot Detection with Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert are standard features on the Limited along with Welcome Lighting. EyeSight®-equipped models include High Beam Assist, LED Steering Responsive Headlights, Automatic Low & High Beam Height Adjustment and Reverse Auto Braking. 

A power rear gate with auto close and height memory is standard on the Limited. The 2018 Forester 2.5i Limited models begin at $29,395.

The top-of-the-line Touring models are distinguished by 18-inch alloy wheels, black with chrome trim side cladding and foldable, body colored exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals. Touring trims are available with Black or Saddle Brown interiors. 

10-way power driver’s seat with two-position memory (includes power lumbar support), as well as Keyless Access with Push-Button Start and heated steering wheel. Active Torque Vectoring, first introduced on the WRX® and WRX STI®, is now standard all 2.0XT Touring models. Reverse Automatic Braking and High Beam Assist headlights are included on Touring models. Forester Touring is priced from $33,090.

All Forester trim lines feature SUBARU STARLINK™ Multimedia systems that provide hands-free connectivity and entertainment services. The Forester 2.5i base model features the STARLINK 6.2” Multimedia system with a 6.2-inch single-touch gesture display and the Premium, Limited and Touring trims have a standard STARLINK 7.0” Multimedia Plus system with a high-resolution 7-inch LCD screen, Bluetooth® hands-free SMS text messaging, dual USB ports, and adds SiriusXM® All Access Radio and SiriusXM Travel Link®. 

The optional STARLINK 7.0” Multimedia Navigation system features voice-activated controls and comes with three years of complimentary map updates as well as a 3-year subscription to SiriusXM Traffic® and SiriusXM Travel Link® along with four months of SiriusXM All Access audio service.

Two SUBARU STARLINK connected services packages are available for 7.0” Multimedia Plus system and 7.0” Multimedia Navigation system and are among the most affordable in the industry. The STARLINK Safety Plus package, which is complimentary for the first year and $99 per year after that, includes SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts. 

For even greater peace of mind, the STARLINK Safety Plus & Security Plus Package adds Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator. 

2018 FORESTER
Model/Trim	Transmission	Applicable Option Code	MSRP	MSRP + destination and delivery
2.5i	6MT	‘01	$22,795	$23,710
2.5i	CVT	’01, ‘02	$23,795	$24,710
2.5i Premium	6MT	11	$25,695	$26,610
2.5i Premium	CVT	12, 13, 14, 15, 16	$26,195	$27,110
2.5i Limited	CVT	21, 22, 23	$29,395	$30,310
2.5i Touring	CVT	31, 32	$33,090	$34,005
2.0XT Premium	CVT	11	$29,495	$30,410
2.0XT Touring	CVT	31, 32	$36,090	$37,005

2018 FORESTER OPTION PACKAGES
CODE 01 Standard Model 2.5i		N/A
CODE 02 Alloy Wheel Package- includes 17-in. machine finished alloy wheels, roof rails and front passenger window Auto Up/Down		$600
CODE 11 Standard Model- 2.5i Premium 6MT or 2.0XT Premium CVT		N/A
CODE 12 Standard Model- 2.5i Premium CVT		N/A
CODE 13 All-Weather Package		$500
CODE 14 EyeSight®+ All- Weather Package + Blind Spot Detection/ Rear Cross Traffic Alert		$1,695
CODE 15 EyeSight® + All-Weather Package + Blind Spot Detection/Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Power Rear Gate		$2,145
CODE 16 Black Edition		$1,150
CODE 21 Standard Model- 2.5i Limited		N/A
CODE 22 Navigation + Harman Kardon® Audio Amplifiers + Speakers		$1,350
CODE 23 EyeSight® + Navigation + Harman Kardon® Amplifiers + Speakers		$2,945
CODE 31 Standard Model- 2.5i Touring and 2.0XT Touring (Black interior)		N/A
CODE 32 Standard Model- 2.5i Touring and 2.0XT Touring (Saddle Brown interior)		N/A

Destination & Delivery is $915 and may vary in the following states: CT, HI, MA, ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI and VT. D&D is $1,065 for dealers in Alaska.

The 2017 Nissan Rogue loses it's wheels and gains tracks to make the Trail Warrior Project.

• Rogue Trail Warrior Project features full snow track system, special camo exterior wrap
• Based on redesigned 2017 Rogue crossover, Nissan's best-selling model
• Takes “family adventure ready” Rogue design to the next level
• One of two special Rogue project vehicles making debuts at the 2017 New York International Auto Show

Nature tells us that hiding in plain sight can, at times, be a species' best defense. For the new Nissan Rogue Warrior Trail Project, camouflage is likely not enough – especially while hiding in the Nissan display at the 2017 New York International Auto Show, April 14 through 23 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center. 

The special one-off project vehicle is one of several unique takes on Nissan's best-selling Rogue crossover created exclusively for the New York show.

Two features dominate the appearance of the Rogue Trail Warrior. First, the exterior design treatment that combines a custom camouflage body wrap, khaki-painted tracks system and military-style yellow glassworks.

And then there are the snow/sand tracks. The DOMINATOR® Tracks, from American Track Truck, Inc., are 48 inches long, 30 inches high and 15 inches wide, and they replace the Rogue's regular wheels and tires. 

The suspension and wheel wells were modified to fit the track system, but otherwise all drivetrain components, including the 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder Rogue powerplant and Xtronic transmission, are standard factory issue. 

The engine is rated at 170 horsepower and 175 lb-ft of torque, more than enough for climbing snow banks or sand dunes.

Filling out the Rogue Trail Warrior adventure equipment list are tinted headlights, custom fender flares, ARB Gear Basket, LED lights and a Warn 4K winch.

"This new Rogue Trail Warrior adds a new dimension to family adventures with its snow/sand tracks, gear basket, winch and camo paint," said Michael Bunce, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. 

"If you want to stand out from the crowd during a day on the slopes or the beach, this is the vehicle to take."

The most powerful Audi TT Ever - The all new 2018 Audi TT RS joins the RS model range.

• All-new 2.5-liter TFSI® engine produces a class-leading 400 hp and delivers the distinctive five-cylinder sound that is unmistakably Audi
• Standard quattro® permanent all-wheel drive has the ability to send nearly 100 percent of available torque to the rear wheels, allowing the TT RS to sprint from 0-60 mph in 3.6 seconds
• Inspired by race cars, the interior features a driver focused cockpit with standard S sport seats, Audi Virtual Cockpit and a new multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles and satellite controls

With an all-new five-cylinder engine delivering 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, the all-new 2018 Audi TT RS is the most powerful production TT model Audi has ever produced. Joining the new Audi Sport model line, the 2018 TT RS will make its US debut at the 2017 New York International Auto Show.

2018 Audi TT RS

Featuring a new 2.5-liter TFSI® engine, that delivers the distinctive five-cylinder sound that is unmistakably Audi and harkens back to the original turbocharged five-cylinder, the Audi Ur-quattro, the all-new 2018 TT RS joins the lineup of Audi Sport vehicles launching this spring.

As with any vehicle that bears the RS badge, the TT RS is the most powerful production TT ever produced, boasting impressive driving dynamics and unmatched performance coupled with RS specific design differentiators. In addition, the TT RS features standard quattro® all-wheel drive, the legendary technology that was once a dominant force in the World Rally scene and that has earned the Audi brand many triumphs in motorsport at racetracks worldwide.

Powertrain and Performance

More powerful than its predecessor, the all-new 2.5-liter TFSI® five-cylinder engine delivers a class-leading 400 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque to the front and rear wheels. With lightweight aluminum construction, engineers were able to reduce internal friction and increase power delivery. As a result, the engine’s maximum torque is available between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm.

At less than 20 inches in length, the 2.5-liter engine is extremely compact and is 57 pounds lighter than the previous generation. The upper portion of the oil pan is made of magnesium while the engine block is made of aluminum, saving more than 40 pounds. The engine also has a completely new crankshaft which is lighter and smaller than its predecessor.

A traction control system, specifically calibrated for the TT RS, manages distribution for maximum acceleration with minimal slip. As a result, the TT RS sprints from 0 to 60 mph in a class-leading 3.6 seconds, faster than any other TT model, and achieves a top track speed of 155 mph, or increased to 174 mph with the optional Dynamic plus package. 

That acceleration is accompanied by the distinctive five-cylinder sound as it passes through the RS exhaust system to the two large signature oval tailpipes or the optional RS sport exhaust with black oval tailpipes. The unique 1-2-4-5-3 ignition sequence, which allows the ignition to alternate between adjacent cylinder and those further apart, gives the TT RS its own special rhythm.

The gas exchange of the five-cylinder is designed for high throughput. The large BorgWarner turbocharger forces the intake air into the combustion chambers at up to 1.35 bar (19.6 psi). On the exhaust side, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) changes duration of valve opening depending on the throttle and engine speeds.

In addition, a new dual-injection fuel system combines the benefits of indirect and direct injection and uses an intelligent engine management control unit to help optimize fuel injection and distribution based on engine load.

Seven-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission

The power of the 2.5-liter engine flows through a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission that focuses on high levels of performance and acceleration. With the S tronic dual-clutch transmission, the TT RS also now offers a launch control program that allows a heightened level of acceleration through precise engine speed and an automated clutch release.

Chassis

The TT RS is standard equipped with quattro® permanent all-wheel drive with an electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch which has the ability to send nearly 100 percent of available torque to the rear wheels. 

 This compact and lightweight clutch is positioned at the end of the prop shaft for ideal axle load distribution. This allows the quattro system to constantly adjust the distribution of torque to help maximize grip and control. 

For the first time on the TT RS, the quattro all-wheel drive is fully integrated within the Audi drive select system offering four distinct drive modes: comfort, auto, dynamic and individual. Each of the various modes allows the driver to change gear shift points, steering, throttle response and damper control (when equipped with magnetic ride).

Suspension

The TT RS is equipped with a four-link rear suspension and a McPherson front suspension with forged aluminum lower control arms. Standard-equipped RS magnetic ride uses a synthetic blend of oils that contain tiny magnetic particles to adjust the firmness of the dampers within a few milliseconds by creating a magnetic field within the shock absorber.

The progressive steering has been specifically tuned for the TT RS. The steering rack is designed so that the steering ratio becomes increasingly direct when turning, helping to provide the driver more precise road feedback while driving. The available RS fixed sport suspension, included in the Dynamic plus package, offers a stiffer ride for enhanced performance.

Brakes

Two brake systems are offered on the new TT RS, both offering outstanding stopping performance. The TT RS comes standard equipped with eight-piston monobloc brake calipers with 370mm ventilated and cross-drilled discs at the front. Also available are front carbon-ceramic brake discs with Anthracite Gray painted calipers as part of the Dynamic plus package. These are more than 8 lbs lighter than the traditional cast-iron rotors and offer increased resistance to brake fade.

Exterior Design and Body

The design of the new TT RS features the same timeless lines of the original TT coupe coupled with reinterpreted sporty elements that harken back the vehicle’s racing heritage. The three-dimensional Singleframe® grille with the signature quattro script, larger air intakes to serve the engine’s need for cooling, fixed rear wing spoiler and large oval tailpipes instantly convey the vehicle’s sporty DNA. 

Additionally, for the first time in a series-production Audi, the TT RS offers available OLED (organic light-emitting diode) rear taillights in a visually impressive 3D design.

Additional exterior design highlights include:

• 19-inch, five-arm design Galvano silver wheels with summer performance tires or available 20-inch, seven-spoke-design, Galvano silver forged wheels with summer tires
• Available Black optic package includes 20-inch, seven-spoke design, high-gloss anthracite forged wheels with summer tires, high gloss black exterior mirror housings and a TT RS specific black optic exterior
• Standard full LED headlights with LED daytime running lights
• Standard LED taillights with dynamic turn signals or available OLED taillights
• Standard Matte Alu-optic exterior styling package including matte Alu-optic exterior mirror housings, front blade, rear diffusor and Singleframe® grille surround
• Standard Aluminum race inlays or available carbon fiber decorative inlays
• Fixed rear wing spoiler

Interior Design and Infotainment

Similar to the TT Coupe, the TT RS features a driver-oriented interior with easy-to-operate controls and functions. From its S sport seats with the integrated head restraints and deeply sculpted adjustable side bolsters, the TT RS is a sports car with a high degree of everyday practicality.

Carrying over from the TT Coupe, the revolutionary HVAC controls eliminate the need for a conventional dash console and instead integrate fan speed, air vent selection and temperature directly into the center of the three central vents, underlining the clean, uncluttered design of the interior.

In addition to the impressive aesthetics, the TT RS represents the Audi brand’s advancements for in-vehicle technology. Similar to the R8 V10, the TT RS features three-spoke multifunction flat-bottom sport steering wheel with shift paddles and two steering wheel-mounted satellite buttons (engine Start/Stop and Audi drive select). 

Behind the steering wheel, the Audi virtual cockpit, an entirely digital dashboard with 3D graphics, transforms the way the driver interacts with vehicle displays such as the tachometer and speedometer as well as navigation.

 Additional interior highlights include:

• Leather/Alcantara® three-spoke multifunction sport steering wheel with RS badge and two satellite buttons
• Heated, front Fine Nappa leather S sport seats with diamond stitching
• Available design selection interior includes red contrast diamond stitching with seat perforations, red accents on air vents and seatbelts, and RS floor mats
• Eight-way power front seats with four-way power lumbar support and pneumatic side bolsters
• Aluminum door sill inlays with TT RS logo
• Stainless steel footrest and pedal caps

Additional infotainment features include:

• Standard Audi virtual cockpit features a 12.3-inch display that delivers vibrant color at 60 frames per second with NVIDIA® quad core processing power. Specific to the TT RS is a unique screen that displays information on tire pressure, torque and g-forces. When a defined engine speed is reached, the colored background of the scale prompts the driver to upshift via the steering wheel paddle or selector level.
• Optional MMI® navigation plus with MMI touch features a completely redesigned menu structure and an all-new MMI search, which operates similar to an Internet search engine making text input simpler and quicker.
• Available Audi smartphone interface for compatible devices, which provides Apple CarPlay™ and Google™ Android Auto integration via USB connection, making smartphone interactions easier and more seamless for the driver.
• Available Bang & Olufsen® Sound System featuring 12 speakers capable of producing 680 watts of pure, crisp sound.
• Available Audi connect® features (supported by 4G LTE where available) include online traffic info, weather updates, fuel prices, Apple Siri® Eyes Free integration for compatible devices, internet radio streaming as well as picture navigation, read-aloud personalized news headlines and Twitter® alerts, among other features.
• Available Audi side assist provides blind spot monitoring via LED indicators on the exterior mirror housings at speeds above 9 mph.

The all-new 2018 TT RS will join the Audi Sport model line launching this spring.

Pricing Detail:

Model year 2018 TT RS model line starting manufacturer suggested retail prices:

MODEL
2018 TT RS	$64,900

*Prices above exclude destination charge ($975), taxes, title, options, and dealer charges. Dealer sets actual price.

For more information, please visit www.audiusa.com.