Autoblog

Moscow 2008: Lada shows off C-Cross concept

Alex Nunez — 2008-08-26T19:57:00+00:00

Filed under: Concept Cars, Euro, Crossovers/CUVs, Hatchbacks, Misc. Auto Shows

Click above for hi-res gallery of the Lada C-Cross concept

The Moscow Auto Show is underway and Damon's on site with camera in hand. The car you see here is the Lada C-Cross Concept, which looks kinda like a Chinese knock-off of a last-gen Euro Ford Focus with added ground clearance. The C-Cross show car presumably gives a sneak peek at what a future AvtoVAZ car-based crossover might look like, and if we had to guess, a production version probably isn't too far off. We'll pass on it, though. Our hearts and minds forever belong to the Lada Niva, whose old-school looks are like visual comfort food. Plus, something tells us that this C-Cross thing wouldn't do nearly as well underwater.

Gallery: Lada C-Cross

[Source: The Auto Channel]

All photos Copyright (C)2008 Damon Lavrinc / Weblogs, Inc.

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Milking a Bull: Automakers eek out extra fuel economy on older models

Chris Shunk — 2008-08-26T14:28:00+00:00

Filed under: Coupes, Economy, Green, Hatchbacks

Conspiracy theorists have long insisted that automakers could push their vehicles to achieve better fuel economy, and as it turns out, they were right. Of course, it isn't as easy as flipping a magic MPG switch, but automakers are making incremental gains on vehicles even between redesigns. Techniques like changing gear ratios, lowering revs at highway speed and using lower rolling resistance tires are helping drive up efficiency a few percentage points at a time.

For example, the 2009 Cobalt XFE (above) achieves 37 mpg on the highway compared to 36 mpg for the 2008 model with minimal aero and mechanical changes. Ford made similar changes to the 2009 Escape, enabling the Blue Oval's smallest crossover to hit 28 mpg in 2WD four-banger guise. Honda achieved similar incremental improvements when it introduced cylinder deactivation on the 2008 Odyssey. Chrysler will show 1 mpg improvement on the 2009 Avenger and Sebring four-cylinder model, which will bring the Pentastar's midsize sedans to 31 mpg.

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Pics & Details Aplenty: Renault Twingo RS

Noah Joseph — 2008-08-25T15:01:00+00:00

Filed under: Euro, Hatchbacks, Renault

Click above for hi-res gallery of the Twingo Renault Sport

After its initial unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show this past March, Renault has finally released full details - including pricing, equipment, and a whole $h!tload of new photos - of the new Twingo Renault Sport. Following the great line of eminently chuckable sport hatches from the French automaker - including the current Clio and Megane Renault Sport models - the Twingo Renault Sport upgrades the existing range-topping Twingo GT with a host of performance-oriented equipment inside, outside and underneath. Power comes from a 133-hp 1.6-liter 16-valve four-banger, and the Twingo RS comes right out of the gate with a choice of two chassis set-ups: Sport and Cup. The latter tightens up the suspension, cuts out 17 kg of weight and offers 17-inch dark anthracite wheels.

You'll recall that while its on-track rivals like Ferrari and McLaren turn their F1 know-how into six-figure supercars, Renault transfers its into sport hatches like this one. Renault Sport's latest offering will sell for just €15,601 in its home market, but includes a special bonus usually reserved for cars ten times its price. For a nominal fee of €1, Renault Sport Technologies is throwing in tutelage in its advanced driving course to show each new owner how to get the most out of their finely-tuned little chassis.

Follow the jump to get the full skinny on the little hatchback that could, and check out the hundred new images joining our live shots in the gallery below.

Gallery: Renault Twingo Renault Sport

[Source: Renault]

Continue reading Pics & Details Aplenty: Renault Twingo RS

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Nano plant protests may cause Tata to reconsider

Michael Harley — 2008-08-25T08:55:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchbacks, FIAT, Tata

Click above for high-res gallery of the Tato Nano

Fueling speculation that the Tata protests last week may have been much more effective than originally reported, India's Tata Motors Ltd has said it will move the upcoming Tata Nano plant from its planned eastern India location if the violent protests don't end. The tension is between the industry that is pushing for the 1,000-acre plant and the farmers who wish to retain the land for agricultural use. After the unveiling of the plant in January, which was hailed by the state's ruling Communists, the protests have been gathering steam. It eventually led to the violent clash last week as more than 1,000 people marched against the planned facility. The announcement from Tata Motors is significant as the company has invested more than 1,500 crore rupees ($350 million) in the project so far, and there is no alternate plan to replace the facility at Singur (although the Nano is going to be manufactured at other plants, as well). In addition, other manufacturers who are expanding into India (including Nissan, Renault, GM, and Hyundai) are watching the unfolding events very closely as they plan their next moves.

Gallery: Tata Nano

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

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U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta snapped at Burger King

John Neff — 2008-08-22T15:58:00+00:00

Filed under: Spy Photos, Economy, Hatchbacks, Ford

Click above for more pics of the U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta

Autoblog reader Chris stopped for a Whopper with cheese at just the right moment the other day, as he happened upon a U.S.-spec Ford Fiesta five-door hatchback in his local Burger King's parking lot. The car's status was confirmed by the rather open Ford engineer who was driving it, who claimed that his car was 98% production ready for the U.S. He even let Chris sit in it, and he reports that the interior (see pic here) fit and finish was top notch with soft-touch materials and some seriously impressive seats. He told us the switch gear, IP dials, etc. also worked well and that he was surprised to find push button start in such a small car. While Chris did ask about what was powering this particular Fiesta, the engineer refused to comment saying only "we should be excited with what the plans are." Consider us excited. Thanks for the tip, Chris!

Gallery: U.S. spec Ford Fiesta

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Spy Shots: Fiat 500 Abarth SS

Jeremy Korzeniewski — 2008-08-21T21:31:00+00:00

Filed under: Spy Photos, Euro, Paris Motor Show, Hatchbacks

Fiat is set to debut the high performance version of its fashionable 500 -- possibly in October at the Paris Motor Show -- and spy shots have revealed that development is well underway. If fans of the retro-mobile were let down by the Abarth model's relatively puny 133-horsepower and sub-eight-second run to 60, the SS model will improve those numbers considerably. For its range-topping city car, Fiat is likely to fit a revised turbocharged engine offering an estimated 160 horses along with the Q2 Torsen C limited slip differential from Alfa Romeo.

The latest round of spy shots for the expected SS prove that the Italians are masters of restraint. Despite looking very similar to the plain-jane 500, unique cues like dual exhausts and special wheels stand to differentiate the high-performance model. We also spotted some vents in the hood of the SS which are not present on the more pedestrian Abarth. This model should be able to hold its own with the other retro hot-hatch, the MINI Cooper S JCW. Speaking of which, has Fiat noticed how well the MINI brand has been selling in the States these days?

[Source: World Car Fans]

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Rendered Speculation: Next Euro Civic will look like Scirocco?

Jonathon Ramsey — 2008-08-21T11:59:00+00:00

Filed under: Coupes, Hatchbacks, Honda, Rendered Speculation

Keeping track of who's cribbing whose automotive designs is about to get even more difficult once Honda brings its new Euro Civic to market. If this rendering from Auto Express is to be believed, the new hatch is a certifiable stunner. That is due in large part to the fact it looks almost exactly like another stunner: the new Volkswagen Scirocco. Swap out the grille and the rear lights, and that Honda is... practically a VW.

The OSM concept at the British Auto Show was the appetizer for the next Euro Civic's looks -- there was simply more distance between it and That Other Hatch since the OSM had no top. Under the hood, though, Honda has vastly different plans: rumors include a 1.5-liter hybrid with 150 hp and a 2.0-liter for the Type R that could be assisted by an electric motor

The 2-door hatch will be a different proposition than the 4-door and aimed at a different buyer just like the current models in Europe. Not that it will make a difference to American buyers, because just like the car it (kind of) plays doppelganger to, the Civic hatch isn't coming to the U.S. Thanks for the tip, Colin!

[Source: Auto Express]

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All-new 2009 Honda Fit priced from $14,550

Michael Harley — 2008-08-20T13:28:00+00:00

Filed under: Car Buying, Economy, Hatchbacks, Honda

Click above for our high-res gallery of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport

Honda has announced that its all-new 2009 Fit, which we just drove for the first time, will go on sale next week with a MSRP starting at $14,550 (plus $670 destination), while the more premium Honda Fit Sport will start at $16,060 (plus destination). The standard powerplant will be a 1.5-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder rated at 117 hp mated to either a 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic (with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the Fit Sport). The five-passenger Fit also earned EPA fuel economy ratings of 28/35 (city/highway) with the automatic transmission, and 27/33 with the 5-speed manual or automatic in the Fit Sport. All models feature standard air conditioning, AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with four speakers, power windows, power mirrors, and power door locks. The Fit Sport (shown above) adds alloy wheels, aero kit, alarm, keyless entry, and an upgraded audio system. In fact, the top shelf Fit Sport with navigation and a 5-speed automatic starts at $18,760, which makes it one of the greatest bangs for your buck in our book.

Gallery: 2009 Honda Fit Sport

[Source: Honda]

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First Drive: 2009 Honda Fit Sport

Sam Abuelsamid — 2008-08-20T12:28:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Hatchbacks, Honda, First Drive

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Honda Fit Sport

When Honda introduced the first generation Fit to the North American market in mid-2006, its timing couldn't have been better. The entry level hatchback appeared just as fuel prices in the U.S. were heading skyward. Ever since then, the Fit has been selling as fast as Honda can bring them in from Japan. The Fit (or Jazz as its known in some markets) debuted in 2001 and the second-generation model went on sale in Japan last fall. Honda showed the new U.S.-spec Fit at the New York Auto Show last spring and we had our first opportunity to drive it on the roads north of Ann Arbor, MI last week.

As is typically the case with new models, the updated Fit has grown a bit (about 4 inches in overall length), but it's only about 44 pounds heavier than the outgoing model. Also in the usual fashion, Honda strove to increase the refinement of the Fit while not losing any of the fun-loving qualities of the original. In the process, it has had to deal with rising raw material and shipping costs while keeping the price from getting out of hand. Read on to find out if the spiritual descendants of Soichiro Honda have succeeded.

Gallery: 2009 Honda Fit Sport

Photos Copyright (C)2008 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 Honda Fit Sport

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MINI and ABF build the world's fastest Cooper S

Jeremy Korzeniewski — 2008-08-20T09:01:00+00:00

Filed under: Motorsports, Tuners, Hatchbacks, MINI

Click above for a few more shots of the ABF Performance MINI

MINIs have a long history of racing, though most of the iconic hatch's focus has been on its slot car-like handling than its prowess down the 1320. That's set to change with the collaboration between MINI and ABF Performance to create the world's quickest Cooper. How quick? In a taped performance for an upcoming episode of the show Pinks on Speed TV, the Cooper in question, which is an S model from 2002, scored a 10.48 second quarter-mile time while reaching a trap speed of 135 miles per hour. That's seriously quick, especially for a car driven by the wrong wheels. Powering the beast is a 1.6-liter engine that's had its stock supercharger thrown out in favor of one very large Garret turbocharger. A new computer from Motec keeps things running smoothly and allows the 650 horses to be unleashed to the front wheels.

Look for more coming in the near future from ABF, including some cool mods and parts at the SEMA Show in November. For some extra fun, watch this MINI run down a couple of hard-charging classic muscle cars on its way down the track after the break.

Gallery: ABF MINI

[Source: MINI]

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Ford slashing F-150 customization by 90 percent

Michael Harley — 2008-08-18T13:33:00+00:00

Filed under: Car Buying, Economy, Sedans/Saloons, Trucks/Pickups, Plants/Manufacturing, Commercial Trucks, Hatchbacks, Ford, Lincoln

Click on the pic above for our high-res 2009 Ford F-150 gallery

As staggering as it may seem, the 2008 Ford F-150 pickup can be ordered in billions of different combinations. That's all going to change for 2009. In an effort to reduce complexity and cut spiraling costs in the process, Ford will be slashing the number of possible F-150 configurations by 90 percent. The automaker isn't leaving the rest of the lineup alone either. The Ford Expedition goes from 250,000 combos down to fewer than 10,000. The 2009 Lincoln MKS debuts with about 300 combinations, and the 2010 Ford Focus will offer only about 150, which is 95 percent fewer than the current model. Are you in the market for a 2009 Ford F-150 and worried that you won't be able to get it exactly the way you want? Don't fret, Ford will still offer more than 9 million combinations for next year's model, including a brown one we presume.

Gallery: 2009 Ford F-150

[Source: Automotive News, subs. req'd]

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Hyundai considers sourcing city car from India

Damon Lavrinc — 2008-08-18T09:28:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Hatchbacks, Hyundai, India

Click above for high-res gallery of the Hyundai i10.

Since last October, Hyundai has been selling the i10 minicar in 70 countries throughout the world. The diminutive sedan is just over 140 inches long (about 20 inches shorter than the Honda Fit), powered by an 80 hp, 1.2-liter four that returns up to 56 mpg and retails for between $7,800 and $11,200 in India. Those specs could be enticing for American consumers looking for a simple runabout that's smaller than the Fit/Yaris and larger than the smart fortwo, so Hyundai is seriously considering bringing it to the States.

According to a Hyundai source speaking with Automotive News, the i10 would retain its name and could be badged either a Hyundai or a Kia. Output would be increased, and its curb weight would grow by around 400 pounds in order to meet U.S. safety standards. But with features like keyless entry, ABS, dual airbags and fog lamps, the i10 could be a serious consideration for consumers looking for a cheap commuter with the amenities they've grown to expect.

Gallery: Hyundai i10

[Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req.]

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Spied & Rendered: Alfa Romeo 149

Noah Joseph — 2008-08-15T07:58:00+00:00

Filed under: Spy Photos, Euro, Hatchbacks, Alfa Romeo, Rendered Speculation

As Alfa Romeo prepares to launch its next all-new model, dubbed the 149, test mules have been spotted, details have come into focus and speculations have been rendered.

The five-door hatchback will join the MiTo in replacing the aging 147. Sources suggest that the 149 moniker could be dropped before the car is unveiled next year, only a few telling months after the Volkswagen Golf VI is due for its debut. Borrowing styling cues from the 8C Competizione and MiTo, the Alfa 149 is expected it to include a new three-arm rear suspension and Alfa's trick Q2 differential, with the eventual availability of Q4 all-wheel-drive remaining a question mark. Diesel and gasoline engines are anticipated to range between 120 and 250 horsepower, and the 149 is tipped to be complying with the upcoming six-star EuroNCAP safety rating, and more tellingly, new U.S. crash requirements as well.

Some still maintain that the Alfa hatch will be based on the same platform that underpins the Fiat Bravo and Lancia Delta, although Alfa representatives have asserted that the 149 will spearhead its own unique platform. Either way, the platform could underpin the replacement for the 159 sedan and wagon, as well as the replacements for the Brera and Spider, while Alfa executives continue to deliberate over the possibility of a crossover model as well.

[Sources: Autocar and Projetto 940]

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Ford Ka gets role in new Bond movie

Sam Abuelsamid — 2008-08-14T20:01:00+00:00

Filed under: Paris Motor Show, Hatchbacks, Ford

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Ka in the movies

Ford's new Ka mini-car will be making its official debut at the Paris Motor Show in early October, but it already has a bit part in the next James Bond movie. Since the success of Casino Royale and the walk on part played by the then-new Mondeo, Ford has taken up the automotive product placement mantle in all Bond movies for the foreseeable future. Unlike the Mondeo, which Bond picked up from a Caribbean rental car counter, the Ka, which shares a platform with the Fiat 500, will apparently be tossed around by the super spy's feminine counterpart. Ford hasn't given any indication that it will bring the Ka to the US market, but given recent announcements about globalizing its products, a Stateside Ka certainly can't be counted out. In the meantime, we can see if the Ka can fly like an Aston Martin DBS when Quantum of Solace hits theaters in November.

Gallery: 2009 Ford Ka - Bond movie

[Source: Ford]

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Cologne plant begins pumping out 2009 Ford Fiesta

Michael Harley — 2008-08-14T12:31:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Sedans/Saloons, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchbacks, Ford

Click above for high-res gallery of the Fiesta beginning production

Ford has finally begun production of the all-new 2009 Ford Fiesta in Cologne, Germany, today. After an investment of 455 million Euros (about $674 million) to restructure and modernize the plant, Ford is expecting its 4,000 employees will be able to roll out 148,000 Fiestas by the end of the year, which is an impressive 1,900 cars each day). In January 2009, the Valencia plant in Spain will also begin building the Fiesta. There are also production plants in China, Thailand, and Mexico that are tooling up for the newest small Ford in order to meet worldwide demand, which finally includes the U.S. where it will also be sold in both sedan and hatchback configurations around 2010. Based on the Verve concept, the new compact is exactly what the automaker needs in today's efficiency-conscious marketplace, and its stylish enough not to be considered a cheapskate or eco-geek while driving.

Gallery: 2009 Ford Fiesta begins production

[Source: Ford]

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Ford: We can make money on small cars!

Jeremy Korzeniewski — 2008-08-13T16:58:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Sedans/Saloons, Plants/Manufacturing, Hatchbacks, Ford, Earnings/Financials

Click above for high-res gallery of the Euro Ford Focus

For years, enthusiasts have been clamoring for Euro-only Blue Oval models to be sold in American dealerships. This dream is finally coming true, starting with the new Ford Fiesta and next-gen 2010 Ford Focus. Mark Fields has revealed that the European Focus and Foci built in North America will share 90% of their parts compared to just 20% today. Not only will this make for better cars, it also allows Ford to realize a double-digit profit improvement on each Focus compared to what it's earning today. This is certainly a positive development, as the automaker believes that the small car segment will nearly double in the next few years. We're inclined to agree unless Exxon discovers that the Earth's core is made of crude. The other part of Ford's plan is to make its North American plants flexible enough to respond quickly to the ever-changing U.S. market, which is something Toyota, Honda and other import automakers assembling vehicles in this country have already done with great effects.

Gallery: 2008 Euro Ford Focus

[Source: Ford]

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Mitsubishi Colt to get Lancer's shark-nose for 2009

Noah Joseph — 2008-08-13T16:29:00+00:00

Filed under: Spy Photos, Hatchbacks, Mitsubishi

Following the market debut of the new Lancer and EVO, Mitsubishi appears to be preparing a mid-cycle facelift for its junior Colt hatchback that's sold in Japan and Europe. The photos, which were snapped at an apparent promotional photo-shoot in Berlin, Germany, indicate that the Colt will get the new face of Mitsubishi that incorporates the same style of shark nose from the larger Lancer, as well as a new rear end with a revised bumper and darkened taillights. Sources suggest that the updated Colt will make its debut at the upcoming Paris Motor Show in October, so watch this space as the car's unveiling approaches. As small, fuel efficient cars become increasingly popular with the public, we could see a return of the Mitsubishi Colt on our own shores in the not-too-distant future.

[Source: AutoWeek via CarScoop]

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Woodward '08: Chrysler gets things started with PT Cruiser Dream Cruiser Series 5

John Neff — 2008-08-12T10:29:00+00:00

Filed under: Hatchbacks, Chrysler, LLC., Misc. Auto Shows

Click above for high-res gallery of the Chrysler PT Cruiser DCS 5

The festivities leading up to the annual Woodward Dream Cruise in Detroit begin to ramp up around this time every year, and you know the world's largest traffic jam of classic, custom and exotic vehicles is nigh when Chrysler debuts another limited edition version of its PT Cruiser. This year it's the limited edition Dream Cruiser Series 5 that will be available for purchase in the fall. The DCS 5 is actually more done up than past editions with Midnight White Pearl Coat paint that's topped by a Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl roof. Up front the standard grilles have been swapped out for aluminum mesh, and the 17-inch wheels have clearly been swiped from the SRT parts bin. Chrome trim and a pair of new "PT" badges on the driver and passenger front doors round out the exterior mods. The interior also gets done up with light-colored plastics, silver (plastic) trim and dash panels painted in the same glossy Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl as the roof. The seats are new and feature an interesting texture that Chrysler calls Embossed Momentum seat fabric. If you were hoping for a hot rod, however, you'll be disappointed as the DCS 5 features the PT Cruiser's standard 150-hp 2.4L four-cylinder mated to a four-speed automatic. The DSC 5 will be available with either a 2.4L four-cylinder producing 150 horsepower or a turbocharged version producing 180 hp. With that, we rate the PT Cruiser DCS 5 as one of Chrysler's better Woodward-inspired PT Cruisers. If you're down with the factory mods, you'll need to scrounge up at least $22,700 (plus $670 for destination) by this fall and get in line as only 1,750 units will be made.

Gallery: Chrysler PT Cruiser Dream Cruiser Series 5

[Source: Chrysler]

Continue reading Woodward '08: Chrysler gets things started with PT Cruiser Dream Cruiser Series 5

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Mazda adding 'premium' touches to all models

Chris Shunk — 2008-08-12T09:01:00+00:00

Filed under: Economy, Tech, Hatchbacks, Mazda

Since the Mazda3 hit the streets in 2004, it's proven to be a very strong contender in the small car segment. The compact sedan and hatch has been winning customers over with great styling, athletic ride characteristics, and equipment that typically isn't found in small cars. Its rich mix of standard features and options has helped keep transaction prices high, which will be very important as the self-proclaimed Zoom-Zoom automaker looks to downsize its lineup and make as much money as possible from every sale.

Mazda will now execute the Mazda3 strategy across its entire line to boost profits while giving customers the standard features they crave. For example, the all-new 2009 Mazda6 will be equipped with disc brakes at all four corners in every trim level while some of the competition continues to use rear drum brakes on their base models. Mazda has already proven that adding standard content can raise transaction prices while at the same time increasing sales, now the Ford-controlled automaker needs to prove that it can accomplish the same feat across its lineup. If Mazda makes all of its vehicles as competent as the Mazda3, that shouldn't be a problem.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd]

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Subaru holds the line on WRX pricing

John Neff — 2008-08-08T14:59:00+00:00

Filed under: Car Buying, Sedans/Saloons, Hatchbacks, Subaru

Click above for high-res gallery of the 2009 Subaru WRX

Despite being just one year since it was completely redesigned, the Subaru WRX is getting some big upgrades for 2009 including a more powerful engine with a larger turbo, new exterior enhancements and more go-fast hardware from its big brother, the STI. When we heard this news, we mentioned that buyers of the 2008 model might feel slighted. No might about it anymore, as Inside Line is reporting that the 2009 WRX will be priced almost identical to the 2008 model. The '09 WRX will reportedly start below $25k while the 2008 model starts at $24,995, including a $645 delivery charge. While a delivery charge might push the '09 model over $25k, that's a small price to pay for all the extras you're getting that includes a new 265-horsepower version of Subaru's turbocharged 2.5L boxer-four.

Gallery: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX and 2.5GT

[Source: Inside Line]

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