New 2003 Subaru Forester rear bumper

[NovaResource]

On my way to work today I came up behind a new, 2003 Subaru Forester and the rear bumper looked almost identical to the Vibe rear bumper. The only thing missing were the reverse lights. It even has the same vertical "points" along the bottom edge. Take a look:Subaru Forester:Pontiac Vibe:
[Modified by NovaResource, 8:52 AM 12/3/2002]

[Moreorles]

Your right. If I squint it almost does look the same . I think a lot of car manufacturers are getting design ideas from other vehicles. With so many on the market, it is no wonder some look the same. And the plastic trim seems to be a big thing at the moment.

[vibb]

How about this one?2003 Corolla wagon

[Frosty]

As Darwin used to say, form follows function Generally the shape of vehicles will be dictated by their intended purpose. Bumpers should be scooped down to provide a low lift over (selling feature my mrs. looks for) and provide protection for the corner of the car. Hence the similarity.It must be difficult for designers to make vehicles distinct and provide family styling similarities. If the Vibe is copied remember it is the sincerest form of flattery.

[NovaResource]

It's not the shape of the bumper but all the added "detail" lines. Look at the line that starts at the bottom on one side goes up about half way, then goes across teh bumper and back down on the other side. Also, the cutout for the tail pipe and the detail "hash marks" along the bottom. That's what make the Forrester and the Vibe rear bumper simiar.

[Vibe]

I saw the pic ,Scott and you are right--almost identical. I hope that cars do not start making "cookie cutter" cars like they did in the 80's. Remember when you could not tell a Cheverolet from a Cadillac by looking at the front end.I hope that the different companys form there own distinctive look rather than coping other designs.Good Oberservation!! James

[NSimkins]

quote:It's not the shape of the bumper but all the added "detail" lines.Exactly, that's what I saw from the pic.. alot of bumpers look similar to the Vibe, but not as close as the Forester as you noticed.I noticed tonight I have been paying attention to hatchbacks/station wagons bumpers to compare when I am sitting at a stop light.

[Frosty]

quote:It's not the shape of the bumper but all the added "detail" lines. Look at the line that starts at the bottom on one side goes up about half way, then goes across teh bumper and back down on the other side. Also, the cutout for the tail pipe and the detail "hash marks" along the bottom. That's what make the Forrester and the Vibe rear bumper simiar.Sorry Scott, I missed that as I was using my crappy old monitor at work (I keep hoping the thing will die completely). Shame Subaru! What a rip-off I have a low opinion of Subaru in general, this doesn't help.Is there a function to those "hash marks"?

[Sean]

A Corolla wagon????? I didn't think there was such a thing. Is this only availible in Canada? I'd like to have this as a replacement for my '88 Corolla Wagon.Please tell me all you know about this car. Do the seats fold down as in the Vibe/Matrix?

[Frosty]

quote:A Corolla wagon????? I didn't think there was such a thing. There isn't. Must be an overseas unit.As far as I am concerned the Vibe/matrix is a corolla wagon....

[NSimkins]

quote:A Corolla wagon?????Frosty's right. Overseas model.http://www.toyota-gib.com/French/Vehicl ... .cfmBumper similarities are noted.

[Sean]

Thanks Frosty and Nick. I did a search too and wound up at Toyota of Ireland ! Looking at it , I can see it will never be sold here.... very plain in the front. I like the look at the back end as in the picture Vibb posted, but the rest was disappointing.

[Frosty]

quote:.... very plain in the front. I like the look at the back end as in the picture Vibb posted, but the rest was disappointing.Yah I have heard lots of guys say that before they have their 8th beer. Then it's "Hello! Where have you been all night?"