Aha Radio Retrofit for Subaru Customers Available!

Subaru owners of 2013MY Legacy or 2013MY Outback vehicles equipped with factory navigation

manufactured before the running production change which added Aha Radio application display

capability (vehicles produced before January 18, 2013) are eligible to update their navigation system

hardware at a Subaru dealer from now until the December 31, 2013.

This update will permit access to Aha Radio content on the customer’s navigation screen, which is an

internet

‐based application to their favorite content on the web that can be organized into personalized,

live, on

‐demand stations that can be taken with you wherever you go through a smartphone application.

When paired with a smartphone equipped with the Aha Radio application installed on it, the Aha Radio

application content may be accessed using an integrated interface in the Subaru updated navigation

system. Note: Only Android OS and iOS (Apple) smartphone devices are supported in this program. Aha

is not compatible with Blackberry or Windows phones.

Here are the program details:



SOA will send an email and printed letter to each applicable owner (2013 Legacy/Outback

navigation

‐equipped vehicles sold that were produced prior to January 18, 2013), notifying

them of the program, with instructions to contact their local or preferred dealer if they

desire to participate and schedule a service appointment.



The customer should verify that their vehicle was produced prior to January 18, 2013 by

checking the certification label located at (see illustration, #4 below).



The customer should also download the Aha Radio application from either iTunes (Apple

iOS) or Google Play (Android OS), install and confirm the operation of the application on

their device successfully.



Finally, the customer should also confirm that their smartphone device successfully pairs

with the current Subaru navigation unit in their vehicle via Bluetooth.



At that time the customer should call their local or preferred Subaru dealer, and schedule a

service appointment for the update.



The dealer service department obtains the Aha Upgrade Instructions and the Fujitsu Ten

Exchange Form via Subarunet >> Service Forms. The dealer follows the instructions to

submit for a replacement navigation system from Fujitsu

‐Ten. Fujitsu‐Ten will ship the unit

to the dealer within 24 hours of receipt. At the same time the dealer must order in one (1)

copy of the Aha Owner’s Manual Booklet. (Part # MSA5M1319A 2013 Legacy/Outback

Navigation System Supplement Owner’s Manual)



The cost to the customer is $100 MSRP (plus applicable sales tax) for parts and labor. SOA

will compensate the dealer for the replacement of the navigation head unit at a predetermined

rate. See Subarunet \Service \Forms for full details on dealer reimbursement.



At the delivery of the now updated vehicle back to the customer, the dealer service advisor

should provide the customer one (1) copy of the Aha Owner’s Manual Booklet. (Part #

MSA5M1319A 2013 Legacy & Outback Navigation System Supplement Owner’s Manual)



The Service Advisor should confirm that the customer has installed the Aha Radio

application on their smartphone at the time of service. The phone will then need to be

paired to the new, updated navigation system as outlined for the use of Aha Radio, and the

customer must register & log into the Aha Radio application (setting an email and password)

before the Aha button is selected from the navigation system’s menu. It should be noted

that access to other accounts through the Aha application, such as those for Facebook,

Twitter, or Slacker applications require that those accounts be logged into by the customer

through the Aha application as well. As with any Bluetooth streaming audio application, the

customer should be made aware that data charges from their carrier will apply, and

excessive use of the application may cause them to exceed their data plan limit if not

monitored.

The Starlink/Aha navigation system update program will run from April 2013 through December 31,

2013. For any additional questions regarding this update program, or the Starlink/Aha software and

how it works, refer to

http://www.subaru.com/owners/resource‐center/electronics‐audio/aharadio/

index.html

or http://www.aharadio.com/.

New 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid Announced!

I am excited to announce that we will be receiving the all new 2013 Kia Optima Hybrid shortly.  This model has improved mileage and torque, a new trim and other improvements for a very modest $100 price increase.

- 40 MPG - Extensive re-engineering yields 20% more torque and better mileage!  Now 40 MPG highway!

- New EX Trim - Kia created a new EX trim from the very popular Hybrid Convenience and Premium Technology packages.  Based on strong turn rates, we expected this to become the most popular configuration.

- Larger trunk and other enhancements - More efficient packaging allows for a noticably larger 10.8 cubic foot trunk.  Plus we added Hybrid badging to the front fenders on all models and for the top trim, an EX badge to the trunk lid.

Pricing and value continue to be a strong selling point with only a $100 increase.  The LX starts at $25,900, which is lower than Camry or Fusion, and the EX, which is fully loaded, and offers the most compelling value of any competitor at $31,950.  The 2013 MY Optima Hybrid offers more MPG, torque, trunk room and other flexibility with the new EX trim for only $100 more.

Please see us at Premier KIA in Branford, CT for more information on this Green Optima!

The All New 2013 Subaru Legacy SPORT!

I am pleased to announce the mid-year introduction of the new 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i SPORT!  This mid-model year addition offers an attractive upgrade in appearance and value to the Legacy 2.5i Premium.

The Legacy 2.5i SPORT equipment includes larger 18" alloy wheels with a unique design, 225/45 R18 V rated all season tires, the all weather package, aluminum alloy pedal covers, fog lights with chrome trim rings, power moonroof, carbon fiber patterned interior trim, and black cloth upholstery with a distinctive silver stitching.

The Legacy 2.5i SPORT has a total retail value of $25,345.  There is a special package discount of $550 that results in a net MSRP of only $24,795!  This is only $505 more than a Legacy 2.5i Premium with the all weather package and power moonroof, providing an outstanding value and performance package.

Please see the 2013 Subaru Legacy 2.5i SPORT at Premier Subaru in Branford, Connecticut today.

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a consumer safety advisory to alert vehicle owners and repair professionals to the dangers of counterfeit air bags.

 

NHTSA has become aware of a problem involving the sale of counterfeit air bags for use as replacement parts in vehicles that have been involved in a crash. While these air bags look nearly identical to certified, original equipment parts—including bearing the insignia and branding of major automakers—NHTSA testing showed  the airbags often malfunctioned or deployed dangerously.

 

NHTSA is not aware of any deaths or injuries connected to counterfeit air bags. 

 

Subaru vehicles are no more likely to experience counterfeit airbags than any other make’s.

  

To assist owners Subaru will direct customers to their corporate customer service hotline (i.e. CDS: 1-800-SUBARU3 or 1-800-782-2783) rather than their local dealer.   Likewise, Subaru dealers should direct concerned customers to the CDS hotline.  The CDS representative will  assist the customer in determining if a dealer inspection and/or air bag replacement is necessary.

 

In the near future, Subaru dealers will be provided with a specific inspection protocol for vehicles that may be at risk.

 

Key Points

·         NHTSA believes that consumers could be at risk if their vehicle’s air bag has been replaced within the past 3 years.  Vehicles  repaired at an independent body shop on behalf of a new vehicle dealer  may also be considered at risk.

  

·         It has been reported that some independent body shops provided inaccurate documentation to the insurance company that a genuine OEM airbag was installed when, in reality, a counterfeit one was used instead.  Thus, the dealer cannot simply rely on the documentation the body shop provides to verify that a genuine OEM replacement bag was used.  The airbags need to be inspected.

 

·         According to NHTSA, the supplemental restraint system fault detection system/warning lamp may have been deceived/deactivated using resistors or diodes.  Therefore, SSM3 (or other diagnostic equipment) CANNOT be used to reliably determine whether the air bag installed on a vehicle is counterfeit.  Again, the airbags need to be inspected.

 

·         If the customer purchased the vehicle used and  does not know the vehicle’s history, NHTSA suggests verification by commercial Web-based service (e.g. CARFAX®, AutoCheck®, etc.) to see if vehicle was involved in a crash where the air bags deployed. NOTE: Commercial vehicle history reports are good indicators of a vehicle’s history but may not capture all crashes.

 

·         NHTSA believes customers should bear the costs of inspection and/or air bag replacement.  If a customer is unwilling or cannot bear the cost, NHTSA recommends, as one option, that the customer speak with their insurance company.

 

·         NHTSA strongly advises technicians NOT to electrically probe counterfeit air bag connecting terminals because of the risk of detonation and possible serious injury.

  

·         While the scope of NHTSA’s announcement focuses on frontal (driver- and front passenger-) air bags, dealer inspection and/or replacement should include ALL air bags (as necessary), including knee, seat-mounted side, and roof-mounted curtain air bags to determine if they are counterfeit.

 

Premier KIA services ALL BRANDS TOO!

Due to our outstanding staff, Premier KIA has received  a number of really positive customer reviews for our service.  We appreciate that.  One of the advantages of Premier KIA is also our service technical staff's ability to service "all brands" of vehicles.  We have the tools and the skills.  Now, the advantage to our clients is simple - they already appreciate our service on their KIA vehicles and, now, they no longer have to search for an "unknown" repair facility for the "other car" in their driveway!

This just isn't a "saying" but, is put to use every day.  Plus, Premier KIA has studied the market to ensure that we are the most competitive - all while bringing you guaranteed repairs from an organization that you trust.  So, try us out for the "other car" in your driveway today.  As a matter of fact, we will do that first oil change for only $14.98 + tax - and, that includes a complimentary multi-point inspection and exterior car wash!

It is time to get back to the blog.  For some odd reason, I stopped publishing to this blog. Well, motivation from the recent AutoCon 2012 inspired me to start again.  I have altered the blog, now that we have a new KIA store as a part of our group, and will continue to publish information that I believe will be important to our clients and stakeholders at large.

This business has been changing at the speed of light.  More changes over the last two years than I have seen in the previous 10.  Tons of new technology and, more importantly, customers that have access to all of the information needed to make an educated decision - that is a good thing!

Survey Says Car Dealership Professionalism Trumps Price

I have believed this for a long time, but, today, a survey was released by CarWoo.com, an automotive marketplace website.  This study, using transactional and behavorial data, shows that 54.6% of the time the lowest price offer was not the one the buyer took.  That increases to 57.5% when eliminating cases where buyers received only a single offer. 

Behavorial data also indicates that prices is not what drives a buyer's opinion.  In giving 5 star reviews, highly satisfied buyers ranked dealer professionalism as the most important factor 47% of the time and price only 14%.  When dissatisfied buyers gave dealers 1 star reviews, they cited unprofessionalism as the reason 44% of the time, and, blamed price only 19% of the time.

Only when buyers gave a middling 3 star review did price become a driving factor, ranked as primarily 52% of the time.  These reviews, while ostensively neutral, where often negative in tone, much more akin to a grade of a C.

We have thought this all along at Premier Subaru which is why we strive to exceed the expectations of our clients each and every day.

Subaru Launches iPad Applications for Outback, Forester and WRX/STI

Subaru Launches new iPad Applications! Check it out!

Subaru Launches iPad Applications for Outback, Forester and WRX/STI

Subaru of America Sales Rise Nearly 8% Year-To-Date

BRANFORD, CT, June 1, 2011 - Subaru of America announced today a nearly 8% year-to-date increase with 20,036 units sold in May, 2011 - resulting in a total YTD sales of 112,255. However, while Subaru Legacy and Outback models experienced year-over-year growth, sales of Forester, Impreza and Tribeca decreased due to inventory limitations.


"While we have had a very strong start to 2011, and demand for our product in dealerships remain at record levels, we are now experiencing a slowdown in deliveries following the disruption to vehicle and parts production in Japan as a result of the March earthquake and tsunami", said Thomas J. Doll, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Subaru of America, Inc. "We expect this to continue in the short term while the production situation in Japan returns to normal. Even allowing for this temporary slowdown in deliveries, we still expect 2011 to be the second best year ever for the Subaru brand in the US."

Like Subaru of America, Premier Subaru in Branford, Connecticut continues to post record results. This is due to the company's business philosophy and desire to exceed the expectations of their clients. Premier Subaru is the only Subaru dealer in the State of Connecticut that is both approved by the AAA for Automotive Repair and Service and has received the A+ designation by the BBB

Geoff Fox Joins the Premier Subaru Team as a Spokesperson!

BRANFORD, CT May 3, 2011 - Robert J. Alvine, President of Premier Subaru in Branford, announced today that 7 time Emmy Award winner weather personality Geoff Fox has been retained as a spokesperson for the dealership.


Mr. Fox will appear in a series of broadcast television, cable, radio and internet announcements in the coming year. He will also make appearances on behalf of the dealership at select public events and charitable functions.

In announcing the partnership, Mr. Alvine stated, “The Subaru brand has a well earned reputation for exceptional all-wheel performance in all kinds of driving conditions. And given the kind of winter we just experienced, we feel the combination of Subaru performance and Geoff’s extensive knowledge of Connecticut weather would make him an ideal spokesperson for Premier Subaru going forward.”

Fox has over 25 years of on-air experience in the Connecticut market. He recently returned to the air forecasting the weather at WTIC FOX 61 for the station’s 4PM and 11PM newscasts. Prior to his current position, he was a weather forecaster for the state’s ABC affiliate in New Haven for many years.

“I’m looking forward to bringing what I hope is a unique perspective to the automotive market in general, and to Premier Subaru customers in particular. It’s not often that a car comes with its’ own weatherman.” said Fox.

Premier Subaru is located at 150 North Main Street in Branford, Connecticut. The dealership has been in business since 2000 selling new and pre-owned Subaru models, as well as servicing all makes and models of domestic and import vehicles. The dealership is approved by the AAA for automotive service and repairs and is an A+ rated company by the Better Business Bureau of the State of Connecticut. Premier Subaru has also won numerous awards for customer satisfaction and sales excellence. In addition, the dealership sells Subaru parts direct to the consumer in person or on-line. The main phone number for the dealership is 203-481-0687. Additional information about the dealership can be found at http://www.premiersubaru.com/.

Premier Subaru Supports National Car Care Month, Offers Fuel Savings Tips For All Drivers

Branford, CT - April 6, 2011 - Premier Subaru is once again celebrating the Car Care Council's National Car Care Month in April by offering free vehicle diagnostic inspections for Subaru vehicles at their location at 150 North Main Street in Branford, Connecticut. Premier Subaru's theme for this year's program is "MPG: Maintenance Preserves Gas", which underscores the importance of regular vehicle maintenance when it comes to maximizing any vehicle's fuel economy.

Premier Subaru is also sharing some helpful tips on ways to improve fuel economy, which can be used by any driver, for any vehicle:

* Maintain proper tire pressure
* Replace air filter when dirty
* Use cruise control whenever possible
* Remove excess weight inside vehicle
* Change engine oil and filter when dirty
* Drive sensibly
* Tighten the gas cap
* Avoid excess vehicle idling

"Whatever vehicle you drive, these simple tips will help maximize your fuel economy and save money at the pump, which is especially important now that we're seeing a noticeable increase in gas prices" notes Robert J. Alvine, President of Premier Subaru. "Any beyond fuel savings, they'll pay off in other ways, too - you'll increase your vehicle's reliability, you'll reduce the likelihood of costly repairs, and you'll enjoy higher trade-in or resale value down the road".

During National Car Care Month, Premier Subaru will perform a thorough multi-point diagnostic checkup of all major operating systems, and owners will receive a detailed written report of the vehicle's condition. This service is done at no charge to Subaru owners and without obligation.

For additional information, please see the Premier Subaru website at www.premiersubaru.com.

Subaru Models Awarded Four "Top Picks" from Kiplinger's Personal Finance

We are proud to announce that, Kiplinger's Personal Finance recognized three Subaru vehicles for excellence in four areas:

• The Forester 2.5XT Premium AWD was designated "best in class" for small crossovers
• The Outback 2.5 Limited won "best in class" and "best resale" in the wagons category
• The Impreza WRX AWD four door was named "best resale" in the $25,000 to $30,000 category.

Kiplinger's evaluates "best in class" winners on performance, value and safety.  "Best resale" winners were selected using the Kelley Blue Book's estimated trade in price.

Kiplinger's notes that the Forester - also recognized by the publication in 2009 as the "best new crossover" - boasts "agile handling, high resale values and loads of cargo space."  The Forester, like all other Subaru models, is also a 2011 IIHS Top Safety Pick.

2011 is the second year the the Outback was awarded "best in class".  In addition to "stylish design, strong resale values and heaps of utility", the publication calls the 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine "powerful without pushing down fuel economy".

Kiplinger's also explains that the "turbocharged version of the Impreza boosts the three year resale value from the base models 51% to 55% - and bumps up horsepower by 95 horses to 265 horses.  That's a feat a few in this category can achieve with only four cylinders."

Premier Subaru encourages you to see the entire line of the award winning Subaru models at it's dealership located at 150 North Main Street, Route 1 (I-95, exit 54) in Branford, Connecticut.  The company's dealership is located within 12 minutes of Milford, Connecticut and Wallingford, Connecticut.  In addition, the company is convenienly located proximate to New Haven, Bridgeport and other major metropolitan areas in Connecticut.  You can see more about the company at http://www.premiersubaru.com/.  Or, text the word PREMIER to 50123 for information delivered to your SmartPhone.

Premier Subaru Customers Responsible For More Than $25,000 In Donations During The Subaru Of America "Share The Love" Campaign

Branford, Connecticut - January 3, 2011 - Premier Subaru, in Branford, Connecticut, is proud to announce that it's customers have been responsible for more than $25,000 in donations during the Subaru of America "Share the Love" Campaign which ran from November 20, 2010 to January 3, 2011.

The Subaru of America "Share the Love" Campaign allowed Subaru new vehicle customers to select from five charities to receive a $250 donation from Subaru of America, following the vehicle purchase or lease.

Over the last two years the program had donated nearly $10 milion to its partner organizations.  Once counted, the 2011 contributions are expected to bring that total up to $15 million.  The five charities that participated in the program this year are: The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Meals on Wheels Association of America, and Ocean Conservancy.

Based on research that shows Subaru buyers have a strong affinity toward charitable donations to worthy causes, the campaign has been developed by the company's brand agency, Carmichael Lynch, to allign that affinity to their vehicle purchase.

"We wanted to create a program that not only stands out from the crowd, but is also relevant to our customer's value systems - they of giving back to the community" said Robert J. Alvine from Premier Subaru in Branford, Connecticut.  "As you can see by the activity in our showrooms over the last 40 days, we also reflect our customer's values in doing the right thing".

In addition to the contributions through the Subaru of America program, Premier Subaru also supported the Toys for Tots program, the Thanksgiving Food Basket Initiative undertaken by Christian Community Action and donated toys to the Ronald McDonald House in New Haven, Connecticut.

Automotive Lease Guide Ranks Subaru #1!

The following is "as reported" in Automotive News!

Subaru has risen to the top of two rankings that predict future residual values!

ALG, formerly the Automotive Lease Guide, predicts 2011 Subaru cars and trucks will hold an average of 53.2% of their sticker price after 36 months, the highest score of any brand.  Forcasting out to 60 months, Kelley Blue Book predicts Subaru vehicles will retain 39.0% of their value, the highest score for any brand with at least four nameplates!

Kelley Blue Book cited Subaru for successfully aligning production with demand, keeping lease levels low and producing high-quality, well designed vehicles.

Subaru Debuts Impreza Design Concept at Los Angeles Auto Show

Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the Impreza Design Concept, which previews the carmaker's new "Confidence in Motion" design and brand strategy. The Impreza Design Concept will remain on display throughout the show, which runs November 19-28 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. The Impreza has been Subaru's global compact car since 1992

Built to express possible future Subaru design elements, the Impreza Design Concept conveys a sporty and lively "four-door coupe" style. The Impreza Concept combines environmental compatibility and comfortable ride of the Impreza with the trusted performance that Subaru's Symmetrical All Wheel Drive provides. The designers blended two ideas – "dynamic flow and confident stance" – to showcase Subaru's engineering core values of dynamic performance, safety, driving enjoyment and quality. The Impreza Design Concept features a roomy four-passenger interior.


From the front, the Impreza Design Concept is clearly recognizable as a Subaru, with a hexagonal grille with spread wings in the center and hawk eye-style headlights. At the same time, the front view previews a new direction for the brand's design, with the hood, grille and headlights designed to project three-dimensional character.

Fin-shaped fog lamps, which follow the wing motif, emphasize a fresh expression of Subaru identity. The car's low-and-wide stance is meant to convey reliability, security, and safety. The design of the prominent wheel arches echo that message while also emphasizing the vehicle's All-Wheel Drive technology. The new-generation Legacy debuted this design feature.

In profile, the Impreza Design Concept shows a sleek, continuous line from the A-pillar, along the roof and through the C-pillar. The design yields both a roomy cabin and excellent aerodynamic performance. Subaru designers applied simple and clean lines and surfaces rather than complicated forms. This produces a contrast with the powerful fender design and results in a lean side view, accented by satin silver window frames. The wedge-shaped side rear-view cameras sit along the sharp line of the A-pillar.

At the rear, the hexagonal theme repeats with a garnish that radiates outward from the center. The rear lights also follow a sharp-edged theme, and are stretched into the body sides to join the character line along the car's flanks. The taillamp design features a unique layering and gradation to create the impression of depth.

The front and rear bumper corners, shaped in the wind tunnel, contribute to the car's overall aerodynamic efficiency. Diffusers on the underside of the rear bumper and the rear deck emphasize sportiness and also do their part for aerodynamics, contributing to vehicle fuel efficiency. The Sky Silver exterior color underscores the Impreza Design Concept's stylish and dynamic silhouette, and suggests a silver tone to be used on the next generation of Subaru vehicles. The high-luster silver aluminum wheels, with their five-twin-spoke design, convey vehicle lightness and agility. Carbon fins garnish the spokes, aiding brake cooling.

"Dynamic, Enticing, Secure" Interior

For the Impreza Design Concept's interior, the designers followed a theme of "Dynamic, Enticing, Secure." The smooth integration of the instrument panel with the door trim and armrests suggests sporty yet comfortable driving. The roomy platinum-leather four-seat layout envelops occupants. Dark blue piping and double stitching accent the leather. A "layered" approach to color, with the upper part light platinum and the lower part a shade darker, gives the interior a feeling of spaciousness and sophistication.

A large display in the center dash combines functions for navigation, vehicle information and audio. The touch panel technology provides ease of use, seamlessly melding information and entertainment features.

The platinum leather-wrapped steering wheel features D-shaped spokes set off by piano-black center sections. The wheel innovatively incorporates its own touch panels, giving the driver easy access to various vehicle functions.

New Safety and Performance

Subaru's own advanced driving-assist EyeSight system is installed along the front edge of the roof. The images the camera takes can be viewed on a monitor in the center of the gauge cluster, positioned for easy visibility. EyeSight is also networked with the latest in collision-prevention technology, underscoring the safety that customers expect from Subaru.

The combination of the 2.0-liter naturally aspirated Boxer engine with a Lineartronic™ Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) represents Subaru's next-generation powertrain. A 2.5-liter version of this engine powers the 2011 Forester

Subaru adopts new brand slogan: "Confidence In Motion"

Subaru of America, the only brand to boost U.S. sales for the past three years, has a new global brand slogan: "Confidence in Motion". 

The brand will begin using the slogan after it shows a concept vehicle at this month's Los Angeles Auto Show that embodies the theme, Ikuo Mori, President of Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd., said today.

"Confidence in Motion" reflects the company's focus on engineering and safety as well as its commitment to innovating to match changing customer demands, said Fuji Heavy Industries, which makes Subaru vehicles.

Subaru of America, Inc. Sets October Sales Record

Premier Subaru is proud to provide the following information concerning Subaru of America's record breaking sales!

Subaru of America, Inc. Sets October Sales Record

Subaru of Indiana Automotive To Add 100 More Production Workers

SUBARU BUCKS THE TREND...AGAIN! THIS TIME, BEING ONE OF THE ONLY AUTOMAKERS TO HIRE PRODUCTION WORKERS!

Over the next six months, Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. in Lafayette will add 100 full-time production positions to its work force of nearly 3,300.A sharp rise in demand for two redesigned SIA-built models -- the Outback and Legacy -- are being credited with creating increased work and the need for more production associates.On a year-to-date basis, sales of the Outback have increased 96 percent, while sales of the Legacy are up 36 percent. The new models were introduced in June 2009. "Our hardworking and dedicated work force has stepped up to the challenge of increasing production while maintaining our high quality, safety and environmental standards," said Tom Easterday, SIA executive vice president. "We are excited to be adding 100 full-time associates during this time of uncertainty in the economy."

The new employees will be hired from the ranks of SIA's temporary work force employed by CTI Personnel.

Over the past 15 months, the Lafayette manufacturer has increased its variable work force by more than 380, while scheduling daily and weekend overtime. In addition, five line-speed increases have been implemented.

Total SIA production for 2010 is projected to exceed 250,000 vehicles.   That represents a 30 percent increase over 2009 and also results in higher production volumes for the company's suppliers, who are located primarily in Indiana and surrounding states.

Premier Subaru also continues on it's hiring upswing.  We are proud to have added more than 10 full time positions during the course of this recession.  Currently, we need even more employees with available positions in automotive sales and automotive service.

Driving Safety: Subaru Highlights the Moment When 'That Moment' Arrives

Driving Safety: Subaru Highlights the Moment When 'That Moment' Arrives


-- New Ad Talks to Parents' Worries When Children Get Their First Driver's License--

-- Real Life Father and Daughters Play Out Critical Moment When Teen First Takes the Wheel --

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Aug. 14 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc.'s new television ad titled, "Baby Driver," is tugging at the heartstrings of parents around the country. The spot speaks to the fears parents have for their first-time driver children and features a father handing over the car keys to his daughter as she sets off to drive alone for the first time. In a neat twist of life imitating art, the two girls in the ad are real-life sisters and the "dad" is the real-life father to both girls.

Baby Driver – the story:


The new television spot begins with a little girl aged six, sitting in the driver's seat of a Subaru Legacy with her father speaking to her through the passenger side window. She smiles patiently as her father gives her the "safety talk." As he hands her the keys, we realize that all along its been a 16-year-old waiting for her first ride alone whose Dad still sees her as his "little girl."

"Most parents dread that moment when their children first take the wheel alone. It's momentous," said Kevin Mayer, director of marketing communications, Subaru of America, Inc. "We talked about this with our agency, Carmichael Lynch and we loved the idea of building a story around that moment through the eyes of the father. The fact that 'he bought his Subaru, because he knew this day was coming' further highlights the reasons that people buy Subarus – our top safety and reliability ratings. We also know that many of our owners 'pass down' their Subarus to their children since they are so highly rated and we wanted to show that too."

Andy Lyons, who plays the concerned father is actually experiencing this moment in his own life. "As father to both the girls, portraying those complex emotions on-screen was not a stretch for me. Having my first daughter, Lanna reach driving age and knowing that my second, Georgie, will be there all too soon, I understand the anxiety of handing over the keys for the first time."

The spot also outlines the inherent safety of Subaru vehicles and in looking to authentically portray that "hand-over moment" the company felt fortunate in finding the Lyons family. "When we found this family we threw out the script," added Mayer. "We simply asked the dad, what would you tell your daughter before she pulled away? The dad took it from there and he was perfect."

The Subaru commercial comes at a time when Teen and Distracted driving issues are making headlines.

National Teen Driving statistics at rmiia.org show that:

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among 15- to 20-year-olds.

16-year-olds have higher crash rates than drivers of any other age.

16-year-olds are three times more likely to die in a motor vehicle crash than the average of all drivers.

Drivers ages 15-20 accounted for 12-percent of all drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2008 and 14-percent of all drivers involved in police-reported crashes.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), teenage drivers have the highest crash risk per mile traveled, compared with drivers in other age groups. The problem is at its worst among 16 year-olds, whose driving experience is the limited and whose immaturity often results in risk-taking.

"Making the right vehicle choice for teens with both active and passive safety features can be critical in increasing their safety while on the road," states Mayer. "That 'Moment' is a real worry to many parents and we hope that our spot gets people to think about what to look for when shopping for vehicles for teen drivers."

As well as being durable, dependable and fun-to-drive, Subaru vehicles are consistently named Top Safety Picks by IIHS. The company's focus on All-Wheel Drive technology is another strong safety feature that helps improve driver control.

"When it comes to safe vehicles, Subaru is at the top of the list and that's why we use their vehicles," said Meg Kramer, founder of StreetSafe Driving Academy. "We need training vehicles that have All-Wheel Drive technology, are safe, reliable and fuel efficient. Subaru fits every one of our criteria."

The spot can be seen at www.youtube.com/Subaru and was produced for Subaru of America Inc. by its AOR, Carmichael Lynch located in Minneapolis, Minn.

Subaru Announces Mobile Wi-Fi Access Available for 2011 Outback®

All of us at Premier Subaru are proud to announce the introducton of a mobile Wi-Fi Access system for the 2011 Subaru Outback.  Wow! Now, your friends riding along with you can use their SmartPhone, IPad or Laptop to keep up with work, or, their Facebook account!  How awesome is that?  Perfect for families travelling on vacation, or, for busy business people!

The new Subaru Mobile Internet system creates a Wi-Fi hotspot inside the Outback giving internet access to 10 or more users for up to 150 feet around the vehicle.  The Subaru Outback redefined the SUV, and offering Wi-Fi connectivity further expands this versatile vehicle's capability. Operating on the 3G network and working with all Wi-Fi enabled devices, Subaru Mobile Internet provides users a safe, fully encrypted connection with download speeds averaging 400kbps-1.2mbps. This uninterrupted Wi-Fi capability is designed for passenger access while the Outback is in motion.  Subaru Mobile Internet easily allows users to check email, surf the web or listen to Internet radio and even stream video and post to social networking sites. Outback passengers can check weather and traffic, download hiking trails, and even reserve a campsite while they're on the road. Multiple passengers can simultaneously use the Wi-Fi connection for their separate devices, including Wi-Fi capable laptop computers, netbooks, smart phones, game controllers, plus the new iPad® and iPod® Touch models.

Subaru Mobile Internet technology is provided by Autonet Mobile, the world's first in-car Internet service provider. The Wi-Fi service can be added as a port or dealer-installed accessory to any 2011 Subaru Outback for an MSRP of $499, plus a $35 activation fee. A one-year subscription at $29 per month is required, and Subaru is including the first three months of service for free. Comprehensive user support is included through joint Subaru and Autonet Mobile customer service resources. Subaru Mobile Internet is a Genuine Subaru Accessory and is covered under the Subaru of America warranty.

Starting at an MSRP of $22,995, the 2011 Subaru Outback is offered in a wide range of four- and six-cylinder models. The Outback is smart-sized compared to other two-row crossover vehicles, featuring a mid-size interior in an easy-to-maneuver and off-road capable wagon body. Equipped with the Lineartronic™ CVT (continuously variable transmission), the 2011 Outback is rated at 29 MPG in highway driving.