Subaru is Developing a Mid-Engine Sports Coupe
Subaru is reportedly working on a really exciting new sports car.
Car and Driver reports the Japanese automaker is testing an experimental prototype in the form of a modified BRZ with a mid-mounted turbocharged boxer engine driving the rear wheels, while a pair of electric motors power the front. The reason the company is using the BRZ is because it’s the only rear-wheel-drive car in its lineup. “Whether the end result will be a two-door sports coupe or some kind of sports crossover/CUV is still in the evaluation stage,” the insider told Car and Driver. “A coupe seems more likely, though.”
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If the model does make it to production, expect it to be built on the new Subaru Global Platform the company just announced. It is most likely going to incorporate a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and will be similar to what was found in the Viziv Future concept that debuted at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show. A torque-vectoring mechanism would take care of torque distribution between the two electric motors up front, similar to what’s found on the new Acura NSX. If total output is in the 330-horsepower range, it would be a great competitor to the Porsche Cayman.
As for news of a second-generation Subaru BRZ, the company is staying mum. Perhaps this prototype will take its place if Toyota and Subaru decide not to bring a successor to market.
[Source: Car and Driver]
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Jason Siu began his career in automotive journalism in 2003 with Modified Magazine, a property previously held by VerticalScope. As the West Coast Editor, he played a pivotal role while also extending his expertise to Modified Luxury & Exotics and Modified Mustangs. Beyond his editorial work, Jason authored two notable Cartech books. His tenure at AutoGuide.com saw him immersed in the daily news cycle, yet his passion for hands-on evaluation led him to focus on testing and product reviews, offering well-rounded recommendations to AutoGuide readers. Currently, as the Content Director for VerticalScope, Jason spearheads the content strategy for an array of online publications, a role that has him at the helm of ensuring quality and consistency across the board.
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If the BRZ actually looked like the car in the photo with some power to back it up, they wouldn't be able to keep them on the lots. If Subaru is serious about being a competitor, Fuji Heavy has to let them actually design some exciting products. With the new design language we've seen with recent concepts (as with all their concepts), you've learned to expect dull and boring from Subaru. This mid-engine car could be a monster, but if it's as hideous to look upon no one will care. Hopefully, Subaru has learned that people want the concept or as close as they can get without diluting it to irrelevancy. If they want proof just ask Honda and VW how the Civic and GTI models have such volume sales or they sale out of high spec versions.