Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) today announced that it is bringing its exciting new driving simulator to the Canadian International Auto Show in Toronto. It's a chance for show visitors to test drive "Gran Turismo - The Real Driving Simulator" - and help raise money for Toronto's Ronald McDonald House. During the recent Montréal Auto Show, $4,000 was raised for charity, thanks to the simulator's popularity.

The new simulator was jointly developed by Subaru R&D and the Aerospace Division of Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries. Using the Aerospace Division's expertise in building flight simulators, the driving simulator was first created to demonstrate advanced Subaru driving technologies such as Active Driving Assist.

"In true Subaru fashion, we've taken a piece of technology that had a very practical purpose and used it to create something that's pure fun," said Norio Osakabe, chairman, president and CEO of SCI. "Now everyone can test drive the new 2005 Legacy right at the show - or experience the thrill of challenging the twists and turns of the World Rally Championship circuit behind the wheel of a high-performance Subaru Impreza WRX STi."

Operated by three Sony PlayStation® 2 processors, the compact electric six-axle simulator can represent complex changes in posture, and an updated cockpit-styled controller and quick steering (2.5 turns from lock to lock) provide a realistic 'driving' experience. In addition to the sense of speed, drivers actually feel the changes caused by climbing a hill, get the 'roller coaster' effect of bumps and dips, and, through the seat and steering wheel, experience the feedback caused by a change in road surface or when the car goes off the 'road.'
Visitors to the Subaru display are invited to put their nerves to the test - and support a good cause. Each test drive will cost just $2.00, and SCI will donate all proceeds to Toronto's Ronald McDonald House.
"As an independent charitable organization, Toronto's Ronald McDonald House relies on the support of generous donors like Subaru Canada to allow us to continue helping families at a critical time in their lives," said Jane Marco, executive director of Ronald McDonald House. "Subaru's support gives hope to the hundreds of children and families that the House serves annually and helps to ease the emotional and financial burden of being away from home so that families can concentrate fully on giving love and support to their child."

Ronald McDonald House provides affordable accommodation and a supportive environment to the families of sick children in Toronto to seek medical help. The objective is not only to provide family members with a friendly, comfortable "home away from home," but also to reduce additional burden that can be created by a long and expensive hotel stay.