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2006. 9. 28 Paris motor show speech
Subaru Europe, President Hiroyuki, IKEDA

It is my great pleasure to be here today, and to welcome you to our press conference.

Let me start with some figures: the sales of Subaru vehicles in Europe so far this year have reached 42,300 units, an increase of 7 % compared to the same period last year. Keeping this momentum, our sales forecast for CY 2006 is same as initial sales target of 64,500 units.

Also, through maintaining this positive trend, we are targeting 100,000 units in 2009. We have positioned Europe as a key market for Subaru brand development, and striven to introduce Subaru cars that win the hearts and minds of discerning drivers i  Europe. I believe that the stronger Subaru sales we observe indicate that our efforts have been appreciated.


I would like to briefly present the new models we will introduce in Europe this autumn. I will also unveil some elements of the new diesel engine we have been developing and which we will introduce in a very near future.

First, let me introduce the 2007 model-year Legacy and the Outback.
The Legacy’s concept of integrating performance, functionality and design has been further advanced. The chassis performance has been improved. In addition, it will feature the SI-DRIVE. SI-DRIVE stands for ‘Subaru Intelligent Drive system’ , and it will equip the 3 liter Legacy & Outback.

The SI-Drive system offers three different options of driving modes. These are regulated primarily by the engine control unit as well as by the transmission control unit in the automatic transmission models.

The three different modes are the Intelligent mode; the Sport mode; and the Sport Sharp mode. The Intelligent mode ensures smooth, strong power output and contributes to better fuel economy. The Sport mode delivers ideal power for sporty driving under a wide range of road conditions. The Sport Sharp mode further elevates sporty driving by boosting engine performance.