The Roof scoop project has started.

[RallyDude]

Sorry about jacking the thread again, but I wanted to get some info to pbkid, and thought others may gain as well.

Subaru and Saab have no connection other than the 9-2x model, which was literally forced down Saab's throat. At that time, GM owned Saab, and owned 20% of Fuji Heavy Industries, the parent company of Subaru. Saab wanted to bring a small AWD vehicle to market, and GM decided that they could do it much faster if they modified an existing vehicle, rather than start designing from concept. Other than typical badge engineering, where truly the only difference is the badges, they really heavily upgraded an already competent vehicle. People who wanted a Saab, wanted a Saab, and people wanting a Subaru, wanted it to say Subaru, so initial sales were poor, until GM gave up and offered 5k rebates on the model, and they all sold within a few months. With all the extras in the 9-2x, after the rebate, it was cheaper than the WRX, so the informed buyer was excited to get the Saabaru. Bluebook used still shows the 9-2x cheaper than the WRX, what a bargain. Body panels are more expensive, but the rest of the parts are all shared with Subaru.

The 9-2x upgrades were designed in Sweden, and like the WRX, made in Japan. There were similarities in companies as they both started as aircraft engine manufacturers, but this model was all up to GM. Subaru ended up copying a lot of the Saab design elements in later model Subarus, so I think the current Subaru lineup was heavily influenced by the 9-2x. Saab was a bit embarrassed offering a Japanese vehicle, when their target market was/is expensive European autos.

If you drive a fast Subie, you'll really appreciate it. Although they are heavy, they don't feel heavy. The boxer motor keeps the weight very low, even if it has a higher ground clearance. If you drive them on twisty roads, that's where they really shine. They're fun, but no wheeling. That's why I think Subaru should have considered taking over Isuzu, as they only produce AWD vehicles, but no true 4WD vehicles; it would have been a great merger, and could have given Jeep a run for their money. For much more info, see www.saab92x.com. No snobs on that site either.

[WormGod]

That's why I think Subaru should have considered taking over Isuzu, as they only produce AWD vehicles, but no true 4WD vehicles; it would have been a great merger, and could have given Jeep a run for their money.

I had said this since ISUZU dropped off the US radar. It was wishful thinking, but Subaru could have been a contender in the small SUV market as well. And who knows.... adopting some of the Sube tech, anything could have been possible. Imagine.... the Tribeca could have been the next ISUZU, heh.

[Gussie2000]

I believe that an Isuzu/Subaru team work could have good results having in consideration both manufacturer's background.

I did read somewhere that isuzu and toyota was on some join venture designing some small turbo diesel car that toyota is looking to introduce in couple of years from now.

Only someone currently working within isuzu's executive enviroment can tell if isuzu got any plans to make a comeback to US market.

[RallyDude]

I think with the absence of being in the market, the economy, global warming, SUV market dwindling, high gas prices with the constant threat of even going much higher; I would be shocked if Isuzu re-entered the US market. We are much more likely to see rebadged Isuzu's that may sell as toyotas, jeeps, subarus, etc. Don't get me wrong, I'd love to see them return, but even Jeep doesn't sell all 4wd vehicles anymore. You mention the name Hummer, and people cringe from lack of being green.

[JHarris1385]

Global warming...? You don't say.

http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=...1t:429,r:1,s:0

Its life on earth. We have had an impact as such did everything before us did, with their own use and methane. Not to get in a political debate but omit the global warming and you are good. Its science plain and simple.