Apparently GM sold its stake in Fuji Heavy Industries (Subaru's parent) to......... Toyota! Excellent news for Subaru fans! Hopefully.
Any early speculation on what this might mean for Toyota or Subaru future offerings? If any joint R&D happens in the future perhaps a gradual introduction of Subaru AWD technology to Toyota models? Subarus with hybrid engines? Or will this just strictly be one for the books and bean counters?
I want to see AWD via a traction motor at each wheel. Could make for some very interesting dynamic stability programs. Instead of hybrids I want a Mr. fusion so I have a better way of getting rid of left overs. The French are supposedly close to it.
ew, the Tribeca. It will suffer the same fate as the Baja. Which was f'n ridiculous anyway...who remakes a Brat?! Wasn't that like the preferred vehicle of pedophiles in the 80's? Too bad the Baja didn't have the plastic molded seat bolted in the bed.
You may be right. But never underestimate the number of people who will buy a vehicle with 7-passenger seating simply because they want/need the space but will *not* buy a minivan due to some personal hangup.
Great Imprezza becomes Celica. Hopefully Subaru will be able to make exciting cars because toyota's lineup is a bore.
That's because they spend their R&D in making quality *inside* the shell. For those of us who like cars that last forever, that's important.
Toyota bought only 8.7% of the company that owns Subaru. I don't think this gives 'yota the power to go in and do whatever they want, some cooperation maybe.
Yep. Hopefully there will be some technology cooperation, etc. Better to cooperate with Toyota than GM, IMO.
I think this news will mean just about nothing to the consumer. I don't think we're going to have boxer engined Celicas or hybrid Tribecas anytime soon. BTW, the Tribeca is actually selling pretty well. They sold almost 1900 in September which is not bad compared to the 1630 Impreza sedans and 1150 Impreza wagons they sold especially given the price differences between the models. Once you get past the grill and the fact that the engine could use 30-50 more hp, the Tribeca is really nice. Its interior is the best that Subaru has ever done.
I have to agree. I finally had a good look at a Tribeca in person at a Subaru dealership last week while they were doing an oil change for my Outback and I was quite impressed.