Subaru XV Preview

Boxer, Rear, Zenith...Subaru

Subaru Names All-New Sports Car "SUBARU BRZ"
- FHI to display its Technology Concept at 64th Frankfurt Motor Show -

Tokyo, August 23, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that Subaru's new rear-wheel drive sports car, which is currently under joint development with Toyota Motor Corporation, will be named "SUBARU BRZ". "BRZ" stands for "Boxer engine", "Rear-wheel drive" and "Zenith" and embodies ultimate passion for the new sports car and confidence in its distinctive trademark and core technology: the "Horizontally-Opposed Subaru Boxer engine". The start of production is planned for spring 2012.

FHI will exhibit the technology concept of the "SUBARU BRZ", named "SUBARU BRZ PROLOGUE - BOXER Sports Car Architecture II - ", at the 64th Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011. (Press day: September 13 and 14; Open to the public from September 15 through 25, 2011)

A special site will be opened today at 12:00 on the Subaru Global Site.
http://www.subaru-global.com/11frankfurt/teaser/

Under the brand statement "Confidence in Motion", Subaru brand always inspires confidence with customers through its commitment to "engineering excellence". With the core ideal of "engineering excellence", Subaru continues to provide customers with "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" in all Subaru products.

About Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, is a leading manufacturer in Japan with a long history of technological innovations that dates back to its origin as an aircraft company. While the automotive business is a main business pillar, FHI's Aerospace, Industrial Products and Eco Technologies divisions offer a diverse range of products from general-purpose engines, power generators, and sanitation trucks to small airplanes, crucial components for passenger aircrafts, and wind-powered electricity generating systems. Recognized internationally for its AWD (all-wheel drive) technology and Horizontally-Opposed engines in Subaru, FHI is also spearheading the development of environmentally friendly products and is committed to contributing to global environmental preservation.

Subaru WRX to Go Its Own Way

Remember the drama around removing the "Skyline" prefix from the GT-R when the all-new supercar debuted in late 2007? Well, it looks like nomenclature surgery is about to happen again, only this time Subaru is doing the separating. That's right, the Impreza and famed WRX -- joined at the hip since 1992 -- are going their separate ways.

While the new production Impreza debuted at this year’s New York Auto Show, the next WRX will take a completely different path of development and will not surface until 2014. We know this because Subaru president Ikuo Mori said at a recent shareholder’s meeting: “We will launch a new sporty car in 2014.” The WRX is that car.

In the past week, we have learned from a source just how different the new WRX will be to the Impreza, employing totally different components.

This image, revealing how one artist sees the new WRX, depicts a new coupe model with a shorter wheelbase and heavy-duty bodywork  

It's important to note that this is just one vision of the new car, it may turn out to look much different. Our source also tells us Subaru bosses haven't decided if the WRX name will survive. For the time being, we'll refer to it as WRX.

“Apart from a few nuts and bolts, every part on the WRX will be unique. Even the engine and body. Obviously the WRX’s platform will be inherited from the new Impreza, but it will be radically modified and significantly shortened,” says our source.

From now on, the Impreza will be the company's core model, boasting a fuel-efficient, naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine. The car's wheelbase has been slightly lengthened, while the A-pillar has been brought forward to maximize interior space and comfort levels. At this point, it is unclear if Subaru will attempt an Impreza-based performance model to bridge the gap until the new WRX arrives, but it appears unlikely.

"Up until now, the Impreza and WRX used many common parts, which translated into entry-level Imprezas that were over-engineered," the source continued. The basic chassis and suspension had to employ certain parts needed for the WRX. That drove costs up, and many entry-level customers did not want or understand the significance of such high-tech parts, stresses our insider.

The WRX, on the other hand, will employ the very best from Subaru's parts bin, starting with an updated version of the company's rally-proven AWD system and a turbocharged boxer engine.

"The first thing you must understand about our all-new WRX is that we have developed it from the ground up to win in motorsports events. That's why we have focused so heavily on weight issues, not to mention a shorter wheelbase that permits faster, more precise turn-in. Marry that to our proven AWD system, and we think we have a winner," explains our source.

If you look at the Sebastien Loeb's multiple-championship-winning Citroen C4 in the World Rally Championship, you can see where Subaru is coming from -- or going to. They want to build a WRX that can beat the Citroen while still offering driving enthusiasts something special for their garages. The company has pulled out of WRC, but with the new WRX, a return looks possible. Above the WRX, Subaru will still offer a low-production flagship STI, a model our source calls a "race car for the road."

"Obviously the rally model will be based on the top-of-the-line STI car, but unlike previous Impreza WRXs, this new WRX will be more hard-core and less forgiving on bumpy road surfaces," adds our source. Collaboration with Toyota on the FT-86 project also seems to have something to do with the direction of the new WRX and STI. "If the truth be known, we were able to focus so deeply on the motorsports element with the new WRX because we developed a sister car with the Toyota FT-86. Bosses gave us permission to go all out because that car exists," says our insider.

Our source also revealed what is going on in the bowels of Subaru's R&D. On the short list for the WRX’s powerplant is a turbocharged 1.6-liter boxer pumping as much as 270 hp, and a twin-charger system involving a supercharger is being tested as well. The car’s body is rumored to be a little bigger than a Toyota Yaris, while its tread width is said to expand significantly. As for the STI, we are told that the flagship will also employ the WRX’s 1.6-liter boxer turbo, but that the engine will be reworked to generate upwards of 300 hp for motorsport competitiveness.

Subaru bosses see the new WRX initially competing in domestic rallies and gymkhanas, but they are also targeting Europe's World Touring Car Championships as well as the long-awaited return to the WRC.

Bottom line? Get used to saying Subaru WRX (most of us enthusiasts do, anyway). Expect unprecedented levels of AWD handling and performance at a bargain price -- the vehicle should land in showrooms in roughly two years in the $26,000-$29,000 range.

 motortrend.com

New Impreza

SUBARU SHOWS ALL-NEW IMPREZA FOR FIRST TIME

All new Impreza debuts at New York Auto show

Special attention paid to interior space, quality and refinement

New engines and transmissions

AWD chassis refined for even better ride and handling

WRX STI continues as stand-alone model

New York, April 20, 2011: Subaru today launched the all-new, fourth-generation 2012 Impreza model at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. Debuting bolder, more dynamic design and new engines, Subaru's compact contender will also offer increased interior space, refinement and handling agility.

New interior features, infotainment technology and higher grade interior materials promise a more rewarding driving and ownership experience for customers of the 2012 Impreza.

For the UK market, a new 1.6 litre Boxer engine will be teamed with a five-speed manual transmission or the second generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Every new Impreza is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru's invaluable performance and safety enhancing system.

Built on a longer wheelbase but with shorter overhangs, the new Impreza provides a roomier interior in the same external footprint as the outgoing model. The new passenger cabin not only yields more room, but crucially a greater feeling of spaciousness and better visibility than before.

Bold Design Statement Also Enhances Functionality

The all new Subaru Impreza conveys a bolder, more confident design that emphasises its sporty roots and standard All-Wheel Drive system. In profile, the 2012 Impreza draws focus to its wheels with powerful arches, a theme that debuted on the 2010 Subaru Legacy.

From the front, the Subaru badge centres the new hexagonal grille, a keystone of all new Subaru designs. The new Impreza sports characteristic Subaru hawk-eye headlights and a range of new 15-inch wheel cover and 16- and 17-inch alloy wheel designs.

Numerous design elements combine to give the Impreza a sportier exterior stance while also offering the driver and passengers a more commanding view of the road. The windscreen is more raked than in the previous model, with the bottom of the A-pillar moved 7.9 inches forward. This allows for a front door opening that is nearly five inches longer for easier entry/exit, abetted by lower doorsills. Rear doors are also larger on both 4 and 5-door body styles.

Driver visibility has been greatly improved through the use of thinner A-pillars and partitioned front door side glass. Where the door trim meets the window has also been lowered, helping visibility further. The instrument panel is lower and flatter than the outgoing model to give a wider field of view and a feeling of greater spaciousness. New exterior wing mirrors have greater surface area to enhance visibility while relocating them from the A-pillars to the doors contributes to improved sight lines.

Improved Room and Refinement

The new Impreza's wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches (compared to 103.2 in the outgoing model), while length and width measurements remain the same.

The combination of a longer wheelbase with re-designed interior trim and front seats has led to gains in passenger and cargo room. Rear seat passengers gain nearly two inches of legroom, thanks to both the longer wheelbase and a new, scalloped-style front seat backrest redesign. The 5-door hatchback will benefit from increased luggage space and now provides a completely flat load floor with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded.

It is now easier to load and unload heavy objects, thanks to the removal of a stepped section under the opening. The cargo area cover can now be stored under the cargo floor, as in the Forester.

Subaru has paid a great deal of attention to improving refinement. Richer looking interior appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and centre console armrest.

Carrying space and utility has been improved throughout; larger door pockets can hold plastic drink bottles and large maps and numerous compartments located in and around the centre console hold all manner of personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players.

Greater comfort is assured with Impreza's new front seats with their higher seatbacks, increased lumbar support and cushions that more effectively distribute pressure. As in the 2010 Legacy, the seats are optimized for a rear-end collision. A tilt/telescoping steering wheel is standard on all 2012 Impreza models.

High levels of standard equipment

Levels of standard equipment have been increased across the range. All models are set to feature electric windows and mirrors, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display, engine immobilizer, and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. .

Higher spec models will add more kit including 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth® controls, heated front seats and mirrors, climate control, upgraded instruments and auto lights. Impreza's new optional navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display with voice control.

All new gearbox and Boxer engine

UK versions of the Impreza will be powered by an all new 4-cylinder 1.6 litre Boxer petrol engine and will be available with either a new five-speed manual transmission or Subaru's Lineartronic CVT. With either transmission choice, the 2012 Impreza delivers significantly improved fuel economy over the car it replaces.

Subaru has further refined its CVT so that for the new Impreza a lighter and more compact unit delivers smooth, linear acceleration, closer to a conventional automatic transmission while still delivering the efficiency benefits of a CVT. Higher specification Impreza models will feature CVT with a 6-speed manual, operated by steering wheel paddle shifters.

New Impreza will benefit from improved ride and handling courtesy of strengthened suspension components in front and rear and new hydraulic engine mounts to damp out vibration. The new model keeps its double-wishbone rear suspension which now features new components to improve ride quality and stability. A stiffer body structure, when combined with the new suspension, have also reduced levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: key to Subaru's Brand identity

Subaru will offer two different Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive systems in the new Impreza. In models equipped with the five-speed manual, the Continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling to distribute power 50/50 front to rear, while any slippage will send more power to the opposite set.

Impreza models equipped with the Lineartronic CVT feature the Active Torque Split AWD version that uses a continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.

Complementing the safety benefits of the AWD system, the new Impreza will also come as standard with Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC) - a system which combines stability and traction control functions - while all models are equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.

Subaru's high performance WRX STI, which was launched last Autumn and is now sold and marketed as a stand-alone model, is not affected in any way by the introduction of a new Impreza 5-door.

Subaru XV concept

FHI Introduces the "SUBARU XV CONCEPT" as the World Premiere

Tokyo, April 19, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI) unveiled the "SUBARU XV CONCEPT" today at the Auto Shanghai 2011 (Press day: April 19 and 20; Open to the public from April 21 through 28 in China).

SUBARU XV CONCEPT
The SUBARU XV CONCEPT is Subaru's design concept car that defines a new generation of crossover vehicle, blending exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form. The key design concept is "Protren". This word was coined from "Professional tool" and "Trendy design". It expresses the integration of "authentic functionality as a professional tool" and "urban and stylish design".

Exterior Design
・ The vehicle was engineered to blend the crossover-like commanding silhouette with a fashionable image in a single, modern package. Its contemporary looks and electrifying lines are guaranteed to turn heads, as its body exhibits the very solid, dynamic and independent styling so characteristic of all Subarus.
・ At the very front of the vehicle are standard design elements that are common to the Subaru stable, including the hexagon grille, winged motif and sharply- and solidly-designed hawk-eye headlights.
・ The rear of the vehicle features the same hexagonal design as the front and more hexagons engraved into the clear blue base under the license plate complement the consistent design theme.
・ To better embody the "Protren" theme, the wheel arch cladding offers the image of functionality, playful touch and driving excitement, which is further enhanced with the black metallic highlights.
・ The aluminum alloy wheels are designed to combine a solid, intrepid form and a stylish appearance, while at the same time exhibiting a fashionable look suited to urban driving. Contrasting colors – silver spokes, black rims and clear blue center caps – are used intentionally to generate an exciting balance between quality and performance.
・ The exterior of the vehicle is splashed in riveting "Electro Yellowgreen", resulting in a gleaming tinge
seemingly emanating from beneath the matte finish. The color embodies electrifying performance, and above all excitement, to round off a tasteful, and at times potent, package.

Interior Design
・ "Silvery white leather" is used as the base material for the seats, which firmly envelopes passengers to provide a secure feeling. The use of sporty mesh in selected areas works to create a high quality, yet casual mood, and "yellowgreen" piping gives the interior a sporty and stylish finish.
・ A large multifunction display sits in the center panel. Three different displays – one each for navigation, car audio, and vehicle information are united in the design and touch panel technology expresses ease of use and can be operated intuitively.
・ The concept car features Subaru's own advanced driving assist "EyeSight" system. An LCD monitor positioned between the two well-balanced and highly visible combination meters allows the driver to check the images captured with the EyeSight's stereo cameras.

Major Specifications
Body size (Overall: Length x Width x Height): 4,450 mm x 1,800 mm x 1,620 mm
Wheelbase: 2,635 mm
Engine: 2.0-liter four cylinder Horizontally-Opposed DOHC engine
Transmission: Lineartronic (CVT)
Tire size: 245/45 ZR19
Passengers: 5

Can you see it? No? See?! - Subaru XV Concept teaser

First official photo of all-new Subaru Impreza

2014 Legacy Renderings

source: jp-cardesigncorner

Subaru 216A Rendered

jp-cardesigncorner

Subaru SVX

New Impreza at End of 2011?

images: jp-cardesigncorner

Toyota FT-86 / Subaru 216A

The Toyota / Subaru FT-86 is definitely a highly anticipated model, from both Toyota and Scoobi fans. It's the car that not only will spice up the Subaru lineup, but most importantly, it will bring Toyota's sporty image back from the dead, and of course attract younger buyers. No, I don't reckon that Toyota's involvement in F1 did any good. What's the point racing in F1 and not having a decent sports car in your lineup? No Celica, no MR2, no Supra... just boring Aurises and Corollas.... Oh, did I mention Avensis? And let the LFA alone. Amazing piece of engineering, but for the very view. It's the short of car that we will buy a scale model of it and the younger ones will perhaps have a poster of it in their rooms.

So, what's this FT-86 all about? Below are some quotes from an interview with the chief engineer, Tetsuya Tada-son.

• "Who cares about static weight distribution, what we said was important and I kid you not, is how well balanced it is on and beyond the limit. When you're drifting, is when you need a well balanced car and that's where we spent all efforts and attention, in getting this spot on" 
• "From the first turn of the steering wheel , this car needs to be fun and special"
• "The FT-86 is going to set the benchmark for future Toyota's (next Yaris, Avensis and even Prius etc)"
• "The criteria is fun and originality for those choosing cars. You can't do this overnight, the FT-86 is where we start"
• "Using a flat 4 is intentional, I want the weight as low, as far back and tightly packed as possible. The compact size of the engine gives us tremendous freedom in its positioning". The H4 engine sits 110 mm lower than a conventional R4 engine would be.

Tada admitted that other brands are catching up to Toyota's eco lead. To ensure it maintains a stand out difference they will be first to produce fun to drive properly entertaining green cars. The FT-86 is the beginning of this game plan.

Many people want a lightweight, compact and inexpensive sports car, rear wheel drive of course, you know like in the old good days. We had enough with all those "luxury-ish" coupes with a premium tag. Initially, the whole FT-86 project has given the impression that it is going to be an AE86 revival, but at the end of the day, there are some chaps called marketing guys... so, fingers crossed.

Anyway, I have read many speculations about the FT-86, contradictory opinions about engine sizes, release dates etc. Therefore, I decided to do some searching and make a conclusion on what is more likely to come out from those two companies. I have spent almost a week and I hope you will find this post interesting and informative. So, the first question coming to my mind is “when can I buy one?”. Most likely in spring 2012, following its debut at the end of 2011 (at Tokyo Motor Show) in Japan.

Next question to be answered is whether both brands will sell the FT-86 in the same markets. The answer to this is not clear, since the Scoobi version (codenamed 216A) had different internal codes -  086A, 087A & 088A for the Japanese, US and European markets respectively – but now, rumours suggest that it won't make it to the US. It seems though that Europe will get the Scoobi, as well as the Toyota version. In the US, the Toyota version will get the youthful Scion badge (I don't really know the reasons behind this decision, but it could well be due to the fixed pricing structure at all dealerships, thus avoiding any price hikes) and the name FR-S is a trademark that has been filed by Toyota both in the US and Canada. No words yet about other markets, such as Asia, Australia and Japan.

So, now the tricky bit. Engines... Initially, I had read that it will come with a 2.0L engine delivering 190hp.  Then, Japanese Best Car magazine suggested that the Subaru 216A  will have two versions in terms of power. One equipped with a revised two-liter Subaru EJ20 engine delivering 250hp (184kW) and the other one being a possible WRX STi version (with AWD) making 308hp (227kW).

To make things more interesting, British Autocar claims that the 216A will get a 260hp version of the Impreza WRX STi's turbocharged engine...

In any case, it seems that two engines will be used, a 2.0L (ﾘﾀ) H4 and a 2.5L (ﾘﾀ) H4, both coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox. The engines will also feature Toyota's D-4S technology, which is basically an advanced variant of Toyota's D-4 direct injection system. The letter S stands for Superior and this is due to the combination of direct injection with conventional port injection for each cylinder (thus eight injectors in total for an H4 engine).

According to the latest issue of British Car magazine (581, December 2010) which arrived yesterday (!) and I really consider it as a well trusted source, in Europe at least, we should expect around 200hp. Both Toyota and Subaru versions will get a 2.0L naturally aspired engine. In terms of performance, 6.0sec run to 100km/h and a top speed of 200km/h  seem entirely realistic. Judging by the low weight, the FT-86 is expected to be the greenest car in its class, with a fuel consumption of 6.5 ℓ/100km being feasible.

Toyota Europe's product planning and marketing manager Duncan McMath confirmed that Subaru has provided the boxer engine, but it has been Toyota's understanding of combustion and engine management system that has helped make this engine far cleaner than any Subaru motor we have seen so far. A limited-slip diff will be available later, but there are no plans for a dual-clutch gearbox (that's a shame as I would really like my FT-86 :-) having a gearbox of such type). And a turbocharged version? "It wouldn't be hard to do" chuckles McMath mischievously.

According to recent information from a trusted source, the oncoming generation of boxer engines will be codenamed FB20 and FB25. Those engines will be fitted with lockable dual Active Valve Control System (AVCS), new Tumble Generator Valves (TGV), a high-efficiency compact oil pump and lighter components,  such as pistons and connecting rods. The result will be an amazing 30% reduction inn friction! The cooling circuit will be optimized and cooling for the head and the engine block will be separated.

A Japanese publication has mentioned that even a 3.6L H6 engine may find its way under the hood, but bare in mind that also other variants are in the works. Personally, I find this scenario highly unlikely for the FT-86 itself, mainly because there will be a lot of weight at the front. However, there are rumours that the next-gen Lexus IS will be built atop a stretched version of the FT-86 chassis and power will come from a 2.5L H4 enigne and/or a 3.6L H6 engine.

During the last few months, reports claim that development costs have spiraled to the point where Subaru can no longer justify the inclusion of the AWD system and thus, only rear-wheel drive versions will come out. To bring added individuality to the 216A, the focus in now on redesigning the area from the A-pillar forward and giving it a more distinctive front end design. If Toyota do indeed go ahead and release the G Sports version of the FT-86, Subaru will counter that with its own STi version which will then provide the basis for an R205-like special edition.

Car magazine confirms also that the actual car will very close to the concept, with a few changes for production of course. The lights will be slightly different and the bonnet will be raised a little to meet pedestrian impact legislation. In terms of interior design, the basic look of the concept will be there, but don't expect the fancy aluminium bits and pieces due to cost savings. Also, McMath told Car that the Scoobi won't be much different, primarily for cost reasons. "If you think about the visual relationship between the Citroen C1, Peugeot 107 and Toyota Aygo, you will be on the right lines" he added.

The kerbweight is expected to be around 1,200kg!

Based on information from McMath himself, there will be two trim levels available at launch, but some markets will also get a stripped version (which will form an ideal basis for tuning).  Prices in UK should start around ￡25k.

In the future, a four-door variant is very likely to hit the markets and also, Toyota is considering entering WRC with the FT-86.

The FT-86 will be built at FHI’s (Fuji Heavy Industries – Subaru’s parent company) plant, Gunma Manufacturing Division in Gunma Prefecture, Japan (Legacy will also be produced there). At the beginning of the project, a new plant for the production of FT-86 and future derivatives was planned, but following the financial meltdown, it was decided to repair the existing line. This move will also enable to sell the car at a lower price. All those facts make sense since the car will ride on a modified Subaru Impreza platform and all engines will be boxers.

Text and images: jp-cardesigncorner

[Sources: ft86club, 7Tune, Car magazine, IMP-X's blog, やっぱりクルマが好きっ！, ボクの趣味/ホビー, カービュー]

Subaru to Bring RWD Sportscar Concept to Geneva

Tokyo, January 14, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that it will exhibit the “SUBARU IMPREZA CONCEPT” and the “Subaru Trezia” as European premieres at the 81st Geneva International Motor Show slated for March in Geneva, Switzerland (Press day: March 1 and 2; Open to the public from March 3 through 13, 2011). The “Subaru Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car Technology Concept” will also be showcased as a world premiere.

Subaru Rear-Wheel Drive Sports Car Technology Concept
A Subaru rear-wheel drive sports car is currently under joint development as part of the business alliance with Toyota Motor Corporation. Based on an all-new platform, the vehicle will offer Subaru’s distinctive trademark and core technology: the “Horizontally-Opposed Subaru Boxer engine”. The concept embodies Subaru’s established know-how in manufacturing boxer-powered passenger cars; it shows how Subaru proposes to integrate this expertise into a rear-wheel drive car to offer a new and highly enjoyable, Subaru-like driving experience. The technology concept will demonstrate how the all-new car platform makes full use of Subaru’s engineering and Boxer technology.

Subaru