Could the Subaru BRZ STI make it to U.S. roads?

The Subaru BRZ is just what consumers were looking for in low cost, sleek, great handling sports car. It has been said numerous times that the BRZ just isn’t powerful enough and Subaru has heard the pleas. In the coming years we are likely to see an all new BRZ tuned by STI in the U.S.

The BRZ STI Performance Concept was unveiled at the New York Auto Show earlier this year featuring a 300 horse power STI-developed Turbocharged 4 cylinder Boxer engine along with suspension, chassis, brake, and advanced aerodynamic upgrades. Subaru has already begun moving from the Subaru Performance Tuning’s line of products and vehicles to the Subaru Tecnica International’s (STI) line of products and vehicles instead. The Gallery above shows some of the obvious changes to the current generation of BRZ’s like an arsenal of carbon fiber upgrades, not to mention the giant spoiler that only an STI can pull off.

Subaru has not released any details on the price or a date for the U.S. based model but Japan’s version will arrive at dealers as soon as September 2016. Subaru of America’s Director of Corporate Communications Michael McHale stated “a couple years” when asked when the STI version of the BRZ is coming to the States.

To remain updated on the BRZ STI release in the U.S. be sure to subscribe to our blog here!
Can’t wait for the BRZ STI? Stop in and test drive a 2015 Subaru BRZ today!

Source(s):
autoweek.com/gallery/new-york-auto-show/gallery-subaru-sti-performance-concept-new-york
autoweek.com/article/car-news/no-turbo-subaru-brz-sti-confirmed-america
autoguide.com/auto-news/2015/04/subaru-brz-sti-coming-to-us.html

A big thanks from Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island!

We were very happy to participate in Swish Night through Make-A-Wish Massachusetts and Rhode Island. And we’re even happier that we had the chance to help make 16 wishes come true! Read more below and if you are interested in making a child’s dream come true please take the time to check out the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

December 4, 2002
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Wish recipients Ella, 6, and Jonathan, 13, pose with Shawn Sullivan and Rich Santoni of Bertera Subaru of West Springfield.
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Wish Recipients Karissa, Jonathan and Ella and their families pose with Committee Chairman, Philip Glynn, M.D.

Source(s): massri.wish.org

Is your child’s car seat installed properly?

AAA states that 3 out of 4 child car seats are installed incorrectly. Do not take the chance that yours is one of them, stop at a CPS Seat Inspection Station today and ask the experts.

Installing a new car seat can be a difficult proposition, at Bertera Auto Group your family’s safety is our priority and we would like to help. Rather than trying to understand child car seat directions or having to find your owner’s manual you can make a stop at a CPS Seat Inspection Station. These inspection stations are located at numerous locations including local hospitals, fire stations, and police stations. Inspection stations are important venues for parents, grandparents and others involved in child-care to learn how to properly buckle in children. Allow an expert to give you some tips and tricks on keeping your child car seat as safe as possible. Below are state specific guidelines and locations for a CPS Seat Inspection Station near you!

Massachusetts 

Child safety laws differ from state to state, for example Massachusetts requires children must be in a Federally Approved car seat that has been properly fastened and secured until the child is eight years old or over fifty-seven inches tall (4’ 9″). It is very important that when a child is larger than fifty-seven inches that the seat belt fits properly. When a seat belt is fitted properly the child should be able to:

  • sit with their back and hips against the vehicle seat back and sit without slouching
  • bend their knees easily over the front edge of the seat and keep their feet flat on the floor
  • safely wear the seat belt
    • lap belt low and snug across the hips
    • shoulder belt across mid-chest and shoulder
  • use the properly adjusted vehicle head restraint
  • remain in this position for the entire ride

Please refrain from putting the shoulder belt under the child’s arm or behind the child’s back. This can cause severe injuries in a crash. If the seat belt does not fit properly, the child should continue using a booster seat.

Connecticut

Connecticut’s law states children must be in a federally approved car seat until they are at least six years old and sixty pounds. Infants must be in a rear facing seat until they are at least twenty pounds and one year old. It is recommended that babies should be kept in rear facing car seats until they are two years old or meet the maximum height or weight limit for their car seat when it is rear facing. It is recommended that children under age 13 should ride in the back seat.

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If you are unsure of proper procedure to install a car seat or booster seat you can participate in a Safety Checkpoint free of charge. Make sure you schedule an appointment at the location you are interested in going to beforehand.

Check out the checkpoint locations for Massachusetts HERE
Check out the checkpoint locations for Connecticut HERE
Learn to install a Child Safety Seat HERE
Learn which type of Child Safety Seat is best for your child HERE

Be sure to check back with your local Bertera Auto Dealership for updated child safety laws and CPS Seat Inspection Stations in your area.

Source: Mass.gov, DMV.org, CTsafekids.org, safeseats4kids.aaa.com

4th of July 2015 Firework Locations in (MA & CT)

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July 4th 2015 is just around the corner and it is time to begin planning which fireworks display to go to this year! Below are the dates, times, and locations for the fireworks in Connecticut and Massachusetts! Keep in mind that all fireworks are illegal in Massachusetts and Connecticut (With the exception of sparklers and fountains in CT only) please leave it to the professionals and be safe this 4th of July from Bertera!

Connecticut

  • 6/29/201
    • East Haven – Beach Party & Fireworks – Town Beach at 9 p.m.
  • 7/1/2015
    • Meriden – Independence Day Fireworks at Hubbard Park
    • Vernon – July in the Sky – Henry Park at 9:30 p.m.
  • 7/2/2015
    • Danbury – SummerStage & Fireworks – Danbury Fair at dusk.
    • Milford – Kick Off to Summer Blast 4-11 p.m. at Lisman Landing Marina with fireworkst at 9:15 p.m.
    • Naugatuck – Fireworks Celebration – Breen Field at 9:15 p.m.
    • Norwich – Norwich Harbor Fireworks – Howard T. Brown Memorial Park at dusk.
    • Shelton – Fireworks – Veterans Riverwalk Park at 9:20 p.m.
    • Stamford – Cummings Beach/Park, Shippan Ave at 9 p.m.
    • Stratford – Fireworks – Short Beach Park at 9 p.m.
    • Thompson– Fireworks – Riverside Park at 9 p.m.
  • 7/3/2015
    • Darien – Darien High School at dusk
    • Fairfield – Jennings Beach at 9 p.m.
    • Greenwich – Binney Park at 9:10 p.m.
    • Greenwich – Greenwich Point Park at 9:35 p.m.
    • Killingly – Red, White and Blue BBQ – Owen Bell Park at 9:15 p.m.
    • Madison – West Wharf Beach at 9:30 p.m.
    • Manchester – James “Dutch” Fogarty 4th of July Celebration – Manchester Band Shell at dusk.
    • Middletown – Fireworks Festival – Harbor Park at dusk.
    • New Britain – Fireworks – Rock Cats Baseball Stadium at the end of the game.
    • New London – Happy 75th Birthday Ocean Beach Park – Ocean Beach Park at 9 p.m.
    • New Milford – Fireworks Celebration – Town Green at 9:30 p.m.
    • Norwalk – Norwalk Summer Entertainment Fireworks Show – Calf Pasture Beach at 8:30 p.m.
    • Norwich – Connecticut Tigers Friday Fireworks – Dodd Stadium at the end of the game.
    • Simsbury – Talcott Mountain Festival – Celebrate America – Performing Arts Center at Simsbury Meadows following the concert.
    • Stafford Springs – Fourth of July Celebration & Fireworks – Stafford Motor Speedway and the end of the show.
    • Westport – Independence Day Fireworks Celebration – Compo Beach at 9 p.m.
    • West Haven – West Haven Savin Rock Fireworks at sundown.
  • 7/4/2015
    • Bridgeport – USA Birthday Fireworks Extravaganza – Ballpark at Harbor Park at the end of the game.
    • Bristol – 4th of July Fireworks – Lake Compounce Family Theme Park at dusk.
    • Cheshire – July 4th Fireworks – Kurtz Farm, Peck Lane at 9 p.m.
    • Haddam – Search for Fireworks Sunset Cruise – Departs from Eagle Landing State Park at 7:30 p.m.
    • Lime Rock Park – Fireworks on the Fourth – 9 p.m. – $20 per car
    • Middlebury – 3D Fireworks – Quassy Amusement Park at 10 p.m.
    • New Britain – The Great American Boom – Stanley Quarter Park at 9:15 p.m.
    • New Canaan – Family 4th of July Celebration – Waveny Park at sundown.
    • New Haven – Fireworks – Wilbur Cross High School at dusk.
    • Norwich – July 4th Fireworks – Dodd Stadium at the end of the game
    • Rowayton – Rowayton Civic Association Fireworks Show – Bayley Beach at 9:15 p.m.
    • Stafford Springs – Stafford High School at 9 p.m., rain date July 5.
    • Warren – July 4th Fireworks – Lake Waramaug at 9:30 p.m.
    • Washington – Fireworks Celebration – Shepaug Valley School at sundown .
    • Waterbury – Independence Day Fireworks – Holyland at 9:30 p.m.
    • Weston – Weston’s Family 4th Celebration – Weston Middle School Field at 9:20 p.m.
    • Wilton – Wilton Fireworks – Athletic Complex at Dusk.
  • 7/5/2015
    • Orange –Concert & Fireworks Spectacular – Orange Fairgrounds at 9:30 p.m.
  • 7/8/2015
    • Bridgeport – Fireworks – Ballpark at Harbor Park at the end of the game.
  • 7/10/2015
    • New Britain – Fireworks – Rock Cats Baseball Stadium at the end of the game.
    • Unionville – 122nd Tunxis Hose Co. 1 Fireworks – Unionville School at 9:30 p.m.
    • Windsor Locks – Fire Dept. Annual Carnival at Veterans Memorial Park on Southwest Ave., Fireworks at 9:30 p.m.
  • 7/11/2015
    • Guilford – Community Picnic & Fireworks – Guilford Green at dusk.
    • Hartford – Riverfest – Mortensen Riverfront Plaza at 9 p.m.
    • New London – Sailfest – Waterfront Park and State Pier at 9 p.m.
    • Portland – Annual Fireworks – Portland Fairgrounds- Rain date July 12
    • Putnam – Putnam Fireworks – Rotary Park on Kennedy Drive at sundown.
    • Wallingford – Fourth of July Fireworks – Sheehan High School at 9:15 p.m.
  • 7/12/2015
    • Enfield – Fourth of July Town Celebration – Town Green at 9:45 p.m.
  • 7/18/2015
    • Bridgeport Fireworks – Ballpark at Harbor Park at the end of the game.
    • Canaan – Canaan Railroad Days Fireworks – Lawrence Field at 9 p.m.
    • Newington – Extravaganza – Mill Pond Park at dusk.
    • Niantic – Celebrate East Lyme – Main Street & McCook’s Park at 9 p.m.
  • 7/24/2015
    • New London – Fireworks – Ocean Beach Park at 9 p.m.
  • 7/30-7/31/2015 & 8/1-8/2/2015
    • Orange -Orange Volunteer Fireman’s Carnival – Orange Fairgrounds at dusk.
  • 8/8/2015
    • Jewett City – Griswold Bicentennial Celebration – Veteran’s Memorial Park at dusk.
    • North Branford – North Branford Potato & Corn Festival – Augur Field at dusk.
  • 8/22/2015
    • Clinton – Clinton Summer Fest & Fireworks at dusk.
  • 8/23/2015
    • Wolcott Lions Club Fair fireworks at 9 p.m

Massachusetts 

  • 7/2/2015
    • Auburn: Pappas Recreation Complex; Cutting ave. (9:30 p.m.) 7/2/15
    • Chicopee: Szot Park; Front Street (9:30 p.m.) 7/2/15
    • Ware: Grenville Park; Church Street (Dusk) 7/2/15
  • 7/3/2015
    • Agawam: Six Flags New England; 1623 Main Street (Dusk) 7/3/15
    • East Longmeadow: East Longmeadow High School; 180 Maple Street (10:00 p.m.) 7/3/15
    • South Hadley: Michael E. Smith Middle School; 100 Mosier Street (9:30 p.m.) 7/3/15 (rain date 7/5/15)
  • 7/4/2015
    • Agawam: Six Flags New England; 1623 Main Street (Dusk) 7/4/15
    • Amherst: UMass McGuirk Alumni Stadium; Stadium Drive (9:30 p.m.) (Rain Date: July 5th) 7/4/15
    • North Adams: Joe Wolfe Field (9:30 p.m.) 7/4/15
    • Pittsfield: Wahconah Park (Dusk) 7/4/15
    • Springfield: Riverfront Park; West Columbus Avenue and Memorial Bridge (9:30 p.m.) 7/4/15
  • 7/5/2015
    • Agawam: Six Flags New England; 1623 Main Street (Dusk) 7/5/15
    • Greenfield: Beacon Field; Beacon, Gerrett and Sanderson Streets (9:35 p.m.) (Rain Date: July 6th) 7/5/15
  • To Be Determined
    • Westfield Fireworks have been postponed and are TBD; Stanley Park 400 Western Ave.

To stay updated on any location, time, or date changes be sure to follow our blog!

Source(s): wsfb.com, wwlp.com

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are coming to 14 Chevrolet models

14358168190_c472a79d39_oChevy is making a big move by implementing Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into their 2016 models (a full list is below). This change will allow any driver to get in the car and effortlessly pair their mobile device with the entertainment system. The 2016 Chevrolet Cruze will be the first model off the line with the AppleCarPlay and Android Auto on select trims. Unfortunately this new technology will not be available on all trims but only models with at least a 7-inch display. Some vehicles are to be equipped with the 8-inch display and will only have access to Apple CarPlay until the Android equivalent is ready for distribution.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto share a few of the same features like easy access to music, phone calls, maps, messaging and some third-party applications like music streaming and podcast clients. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be a part of the Chevrolet MyLink suite offered in their 2016 models.

2016 7-inch MyLink (both Android Auto and CarPlay)

  • Camaro
  • Camaro Convertible
  • Cruze
  • Malibu
  • Silverado
  • Silverado HD
  • Spark

2016 8-inch MyLink (CarPlay only; Android Auto coming later this year)

  • Camaro
  • Camaro Convertible
  • Colorado
  • Corvette
  • Corvette Convertible
  • Cruze
  • Impala
  • Malibu
  • Silverado
  • Silverado HD
  • Spark
  • Suburban
  • Tahoe
  • Voltchevy blog tag

Hot Rods for Heroes 2015 │ Gallery

The 2015 Wicked Big Meet Was Indeed Wicked!

We hope you had time to come out to Stafford Springs Motor Speedway this weekend to partake in The 2015 Wicked Big Meet. There were hundreds of vehicles, loads of vendors, and thousands of dollars in raffle prizes and giveaways. Be sure to check our Facebook, Twitter, and Google + for updates!
The event kicked off at 9:00 am with a giant line of Subaru’s awaiting to line up before the show kicked off. When we tell you there were a lot of people we mean there were really a lot of people. See for yourself:
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Keep in mind this was around only 1/6th of the cars that were in the show.

The Autocross event started right on time with entries taking to the track and looking to beat their lap records. There were also two raffle winners who got the chance to ride with David Higgins in a 2015 Subaru STI. He did not take it easy on them either, David Higgins pushed the car to it’s limits and even drifted a bit to get the audience going.

The weather could not have been better for WBM there was not a cloud in the sky. Temperatures peaked to 75° F but it felt much hotter in a field packed with Subarus.

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If you were at WBM 2015 please share your photos and videos with us on our Facebook and Twitter pages!
For more information about Bertera Subaru of Hartford click here!

10 Must have items for the 2015 Wicked Big Meet!

The 2015 Wicked Big Meet is only a few days away. Here are 10 essential items for WBM.

must bring

1. Camera

There are going to be hundreds of cars, hours of fun, and loads of other Subaru enthusiasts. Make sure your phones and cameras are charged!

2. Raffle TIckets

With over $10,000 in raffle prizes it would be wise to keep your raffle tickets handy and don’t forget to visit vendor booths for a chance to win more raffle tickets.

3. Ear plugs

With the Autocross and Exhaust contests WBM is looking to be a loud event. If you want to be able to have a conversation with others on Monday morning we suggest bringing a pair of ear plugs.

4. Cash

There are ATMs located inside of the event but none immediately available outside the gate. Plan ahead and bring cash if you are buying tickets at the gate, keep in mind not every vendor will accept debit/credit cards.

5. Sun Screen

June 7th is looking to be an extremely sunny day, getting a sun burn is no fun make sure to apply sun screen accordingly.

6. Water Bottles and light snacks

Food and drinks are allowed to be brought into the event (No Alcohol) be sure that family and friends are hydrated and fed throughout the event. Remember it will be very sunny!

7. Comfortable shoes

There will be a huge amount of events and things to see and do. Be sure to bring a pair of comfortable shoes to the event, with so much going on there may be no time to sit if you want to see everything.

8. Sun Glasses

Keep your eyes safe from the sun. Be aware that some of the vehicles at WBM will be extremely glossy. And did we mention it is going to be extremely sunny out?

9. A copy of the events for the festival with times.

Grab a copy of the day’s program for the WBM events to plan your day. With so many WBM events you would not want to be late or possibly miss an event you’re interested in.

10. Your Subaru

Feel the thrill of driving your Subaru through a professional course. No prior experience required.

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter to stay updated on all things Wicked Big Meet!

 

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The Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival

logoSaturday, July 18th marks the 22nd Annual Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival. The festival features an array of events representing the fine culture of Scotland. The Festivities will begin at 9:00 am located at 300 North Main St. in Florence. Rain or shine the festivities will go on. Come down and release your inner Scotsman or Scotswoman

The festival will feature an array of vendors, events, and live music to enjoy. Enjoy a day full of music, art, games, and of course food! Embrace the Scottish culture release your inner Scotsman and enjoy the sounds of the bagpipes all the while dancing comfortably in your kilt. The possibilities are endless. Bertera Subaru of West Springfield is proud to be a sponsor, and we are looking forward to seeing you there! bagpipes-37700_640

Click here for more information about Glasgow Lands Scottish Festival
Click here to get more information about Bertera Subaru of West Springfield

Here are some featured bands playing at Glasgow Lands:

• Albannach
• Soulsha
• Prydein
• Jennifer Licko
• Charlie Zahm
• The Cabeys

For a full list of the bands playing click HERE!

!SUBWS2

 

Must bring items and tips for your vacation

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The weather is warming up and school is out which means it is time to get out on the road for a family vacation. Here at Bertera our priorities are the satisfaction and safety of your family. Whether your trip takes just a few hours or even days make sure to have a look at these five essential items and tips.

1. Sunscreen
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Whether you are headed to the beach or to a cookout one essential item is Sunscreen. Skin protection is not something that should be ignored. If sunscreen is not applied when needed while in direct sunlight you could be risking serious skin damage. Keep any parts of your body that will be directly in contact with sunlight well taken care of when applying sunscreen.

2. Extra batteries
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No one wants to miss a moment of a family vacation. Be sure to pack extra batteries for any electronics you may bring along. Let us not forget about chargers either. You can also buy a universal battery which can be hooked up to any USB charging products for charging on the go.

3. Music
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Make sure you bring music for the car ride, whether it’s from your phone, a CD, or even an 8-track. There is no better cure to a silent, awkward, or boring ride than some good music. Get working on your vacation playlist now!

4. Snacks
Everyone can get a little antsy when sitting in a vehicle for a trip. It is always a good idea to bring small meals or snacks on your trip. There are many ways to cut costs as well. Prepare your food and keep it stored properly. Bringing your own snacks on a trip can really cut the costs significantly. Rather than stopping at a fast food restaurant consider packing sandwiches or fruit salads for everyone to enjoy.

5. Service your vehicle
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Do not forget to make sure your vehicle has been serviced before any long trips. Be sure to always double check your fluid levels before taking a trip to make sure your vehicle is in proper shape before getting on the road. When a tire goes flat it can really bum people out, be sure to always have your tires and pressure checked. Bringing along a type of pump or fix a flat solution is never a bad idea either. If these seem like too much before getting on the road look no further because Bertera can service your vehicle for an excellent driving experience.