Developed side-by-side with Toyota’s upcoming FT-86 coupe, Subaru’s entry-level two-door sportscar has been spied hot-weather testing in the US this week.
With flared guards and a profile similar to the current generation WRX STI, Subaru fans in Australia and the US might be inclined to dub Subaru’s new coupe the spiritual successor to the famed 22B.
Of course, lacking the extra motivation of a turbo (see the covered bonnet-scoop), the new coupe would be considered the 22B’s scion in spirit only.
Previous rumours had the Subaru-badged two-door utilizing a shortened version of the Liberty’s platform along with the WRX’s AWD drivetrain. However, cost blow-outs have reportedly prompted Subaru to dump its plans for AWD and instead use the same RWD layout as the Toyota.
Heavy camouflaging, along with massive cladding to the rear end and rear quarters, make it difficult to discern the exact look of Subaru’s new two-door, but a STI-like style appears likely.
Power is expected to come from the same 150kW Subaru-developed naturally-aspirated direct-injection 2.0 litre boxer engine powering Toyota’s FT-86 concept, although Subaru has recently announced it will unveil a new range of boxer engines later this year.
Adding credence to the likelihood of a RWD layout, the Subaru coupe’s cabin is positioned further back above the rear axle.
While the FT-86 concept is destined for this month’s Tokyo Motor Show, a proper look at the Subaru version of the joint project’s pair of entry-level coupes is likely some way off.
9 Comments
At least the rims on it are good
Horrideous is the only way to describe this car
Kind of reminds me of the Toyota Paseo from the late 90's. Wasn't the a useless car, 1.3 ltr engine if i remember correctly. Guess I'll be waiting with fingers crossed for a replacement silvia now. The affordable 2 door RWD sports car segment used to be so strong, surely if its brought Toyota out of the sports car desert then Nissan can come through with the goods also. The Z-car lineage was asleep long enough, don't let Toyota/Subaru rack up all the sales for a market where lack of supply will see strong demand once something has been released. Just look at how strong the resale values are on S15's.
Cameo: That's hopefully because it's camouflaged. I hope that entire rear section is fake, if it's still that shape in the showrooms... blech.
Glenn, I had to smile at your comment. It made me remember when BMW started their controversial designs in the 90's. Their cars were ugly but they had the best looking wheels in the industry. Unfortunately for me, Subaru went ugly in 2000 and just never got any better.
Unfortunately those rims haven't been used for a couple of years. The Sti Liberties and the Tuned by Sti WRX's had them up till 2007 but 2008/9-> (i think 2008 included) had the newer hideous rims
Sticky tape anyone? WTF are Subaru doing? I personally have an 09 STI, and to be honest, wouldnt touch this with a 40' pole. Top Gear mag made the comment in their Hot Hatch head to head review this month that "Subaru have lacked a dedicated designer since 1999, and have been forced to model their cars on random items found at the factory - the latest WRX is based on a glob of chewing gum under the boss's desk"...... I'm starting to feel that this is true! Good luck subaru.....
Great camo, let's hope what's underneath will be more powerful than FT-86 counterpart and close to good looking, 'cause Subaru has lost it's way again with their present line-up of cars. I really want Subaru to succeed with the fans with this car.
No way this is the Toyobaru! It's all wrong. My money is on this being the Impreza Coupe Hatch that was allegedly being developed alongside the FT86. The door, wing mirrors, windshield and rear screen all scream Impreza! Makes sense that Subaru would want a 2 door hatch. Everyone else has one. Google images: impreza Coupe - some nice pics online!