SUBARU CONCEPT CARS
an unofficial Subaru research and information site


Subaru ST-X Baja concept car
2000 ST-X concept made it to production as the 2003-2006 Baja

more always coming. tips and comments welcomed!
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This website is independent, unauthorized, and not approved, supported, or edited by any dealer or by Subaru. Cars101.com is created and maintained by Joe Spitz, selling Subarus since 1996 in the Seattle/Puget Sound and greater Northwest area including Idaho, Montana, California, Oregon, AlaskaComments, corrections, tips welcomed.  Unauthorized reproduction prohibited

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A BRZ inspired wagon with all wheel drive. No plans to produce it though at this time.
Cross Sport BRZ wagon at 2013 Tokyo Auto Show
Cross Sport BRZ wagon at 2013 Tokyo Auto Show
rear view Cross Sport BRZ wagon at 2013 Tokyo Auto Show
Cross Sport BRZ wagon at 2013 Tokyo Auto Show

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2015 WRX concept car shown at the New York International Auto Show, March 28-April 7, 2013.
The 2015 WRX is expected mid 2014

2015 WRX concept car
The next version is expected to arrive mid-2014 and have a 2.0L turbo like the 2014 Forester 2.0XT.
 It's expect to be more refined than the current hard-charging 2.5L WRX and STI models, and get slightly better fuel economy. 


The press release "Subaru of America, Inc. today unveiled the SUBARU WRX CONCEPT at the 2013 New York International Auto Show at the Jacob K. Javits Center. The design concept hints at the design language of the next generation WRX.
The bold and muscular design emphasizes turbocharged power and AWD grip in a more agile and athletic form. The SUBARU WRX CONCEPT blends the WRX’s famous power and road-holding prowess with an even greater focus on sharp handling, steering and communicative chassis. To further improve handling dynamics, the SUBARU WRX CONCEPT features a carbon-fiber roof to enhance the already low center of gravity and reduce weight.
Considerably lower, sleeker and wider, the SUBARU WRX CONCEPT delivers even more street presence than previous generations of WRX. The new grille design is larger and bolder and sets off the classic WRX hood scoop. A pronounced powerbulge provides clearance for the new turbocharged engine and intercooler. A prominent hexagonal grille form and deep lower valences with air intakes are designed to enhance aerodynamics, add downforce and aid engine cooling.
The three dimensional mesh pattern of the grille denotes the sporting nature of the SUBARU WRX CONCEPT and sets the Subaru star cluster apart, while the new hawk-eye headlights integrate the Subaru family design heritage.
A sharp character line runs from the front corner through to the taillights, intersected by the boldly flared wheel arches emphasizing the Subaru’s AWD system. The compact cabin greenhouse draws attention to the power and solidity of the body and focuses attention to wide stance that provides a visual link between body and chassis.
The rear design echoes the hexagonal design motif from the front grille and features a dramatically curved trunk lid that also acts as a rear spoiler. The distinctive wide rear bumper of the SUBARU WRX CONCEPT adds to the powerful street presence of the car and is off-set by large quad tailpipes denoting the powerful turbocharged engine. The aggressive rear diffuser improves vehicles aerodynamics.
The all-new SUBARU WRX CONCEPT features a new paint color, “WR Blue Pearl III”, which modernizes the iconic WRX look. Fluorescent Yellow is used as an accent on the WRX badge on the front grille, the brake calipers and the exhaust tip finishers, adding character notes to the design. Filling out the broad fenders are BBS “RI-D” One Piece Forged Duralumin wheels and featuring 245/40ZR20 Dunlop tires with an exclusive tread pattern.
Key Dimensions (Overall Length x Width x Height): (178.0in x 74.4in x 54.7in ), Wheelbase: (108.7 in.)
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from a March 29, 2013 article in Australia, by Haitham Razagui.
' Subaru's long-awaited next-generation WRX performance flagship is just months away, with the production version expected to be revealed by the end of this year.  And given the BRZ coupe took seven months to go from production debut to Australian launch, a similar time frame for the WRX points to an arrival in local showrooms around mid-2014.
Speaking in New York, Subaru America president and COO Tom Doll said the production version was “close”, and conceded that a November motor show reveal was “possible”, hinting at a potential world premiere at LA motor show.
It is also worth noting that the Tokyo motor show will take place at the same time as the North American event this November.  The concept revealed in the Big Apple overnight is just a styling preview, in similar vein to the pumped-up BRZ STI concept from the 2011 motor show, which was tamed down by the time it was unveiled in production form at Tokyo a fortnight later. Like the BRZ show car, the WRX concept is obviously an extreme version of what will end up in showrooms.
Strip away the carbon-fibre roof, 20-inch alloy wheels, massive racing brakes, aggressive rear diffuser, tiny door mirrors and air intake-like headlights and it is possible to get a measure of what the showroom STI model might look like.
Tame down the chunky flared wheel arches – which at the front lead into huge air vents – and the base WRX starts to materialise.  Whether the production model will retain the four-door concept’s swoopy coupe-like roof line remains to be seen.
Apart from confirmation the new WRX will maintain the turbocharged, all-wheel-drive layout of its predecessors, no mechanical details have been announced and Subaru’s global deputy general manager for corporate communications Masashi Uemura declined to comment on technical details.
However Mr Doll confirmed the new WRX will share the Impreza platform and be offered with a manual gearbox, while automatics will use a CVT with paddle-shifters.  He also quashed rumours the new WRX would be a hybrid – although he said the electric motor sandwiched between the engine and transmission of the XV Hybrid also revealed at New York would provide a welcome torque boost.  “It will have a manual transmission because a performance driver likes to be able to shift the car,” he said. “If you put a CVT in it you can have paddle-shifting.”
Various rumours about drivetrains have circulated but it looks likely the WRX will use a higher output version of the direct-injection 2.0-litre turbo engine of the latest Forester XT.
“In the future I think you can probably guess that with the 2.0-litres that are in the current Impreza, a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine is coming,” said Mr Doll.
Although Subaru looks set to position the WRX more firmly as a standalone sportscar, further distancing it from the Impreza with which it has long been associated – the Impreza name was dropped from performance models in 2010 – Mr Doll revealed some panels would still be shared.
We are trying to strip the WRX and STI brands off and away from the Impreza to try and get their own unique styling and their own unique driving attributes,” he said.
“They share some (panels) but we are trying to create, as you can tell by this car here, its own style and its own definition as opposed to taking it from the Impreza model and saying it is just based off the Impreza.”
He also confirmed the WRX would not be produced as a hatchback this time around as “performance cars are more defined in the sedan segment”.  But due to the popularity of hot hatches in various markets around the world such as Europe and Australia, it is unclear if Mr Doll was talking in the context of his native North American market.
“For the new generation we are moving away from the five-door style,” he said. “Because performance cars are more defined in the sedan segment.
Mr Doll said the new WRX will deliver BRZ-like levels of handling and drivability but in a more powerful, all-wheel-drive package.  “We learned with the BRZ that it is not just about 0-60 it is really about drivability, handling and fun and what the BRZ taught us, you are going to see a lot of those positive attributes built into the next generation of our production cars.”
The WRX concept’s wheelbase is a significant 115mm longer than the Impreza at 2760mm while the 4520mm body length is 60mm shorter than the Impreza sedan, lending it short overhangs and a purposeful stance to go with its low (1390mm), wide (1890mm) and sleek shape.  Subaru fans will be glad to see the iconic WRX bonnet scoop has been retained – unlike the latest turbo-petrol Forester XV – but it has become even more integrated with the bonnet than on the current model.
The concept is painted in a new colour called WR Blue Pearl III that has a metal-flake look but provides a clear link to the classic WRX hue and Subaru’s rallying livery.
Flourescent yellow highlights on the badge, fat quad tail-pipes and brake callipers give the concept some sparkle without resorting to the use of chrome.' the original article



subaru wrx concept car at ny auto show 2013
a concept of the next WRX, the 2015 model due mid-2014

2015 wrx concept car 2013
front of wrx concept car new york international car show 2013
rear view 2015 subaru wrx concept car shown march 2013 new york auto show
subaru wrx turbo at nyias 2013
rear view wrx concept car at 2013 new york international auto show
wrx concept alloy wheel 2013

2013 new york auto show wrx concept front end
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VIZIV diesel hybrid concept at the Geneva auto show March 5-17, 2013.
the official press release

viziv concept at geneva auto show 2013
"SUBARU VIZIV CONCEPT" is a future-generation crossover concept that represents the new design direction and technologies that will take the Subaru brand into the future. "VIZIV" is a coined word inspired by the phrase "Vision for Innovation" to express Subaru's future vision of innovation and the future direction of the brand...
A future-generation crossover concept providing high efficiency and performance on all road surface conditions and driving environments has been created with a new Subaru design philosophy."Subaru Boxer Diesel Hybrid", as a proposal to the future of Subaru power units, was mounted in the "SUBARU VIZIV CONCEPT". The powertrain is a plug-in hybrid system that combines a 2.0-litre Subaru Boxer diesel engine and high-torque-compatible Lineartronic (CVT) with a front motor that provides both vehicle drive and power generation, and two independent rear motors for vehicle drive only. By achieving solid environmental and road performance with this powertrain, Subaru's "Enjoyment and Peace of Mind" driving experience will be further advanced....
"Independent-rear-motor-driven symmetrical AWD" system which is leading the way to a future generation of Subaru AWD technology has been adopted for the SUBARU VIZIV CONCEPT. Subaru is constantly refining its unique AWD systems according to the development philosophy "Four-wheel management". "Independent-rear-motor-driven symmetrical AWD" system provides fine-tuned control of the four wheels to match the travel environment and road surface conditions.
Two motors exclusively developed for rear wheels' drive control the rear right and left drive power freely. Coordinated management system of the front and rear motor controls the division of drive power between the front and rear wheels. It increases Subaru's trademark active safety performance. Turning the steering wheel increases the drive power applied to the rear, creating a handling characteristic that responds nimbly to driver operations. Turning the steering wheel back increases the drive power applied to the front, creating a handling characteristic that emphasizes stability.
In stop-and-go city traffic, all wheels are driven by the motors when starting from rest, providing high starting torque and powerful acceleration, but low fuel consumption with quiet ride.
By independently controlling the drive power applied to the left and right rear wheels, the rear drive system provides more torque to the outside rear wheel and less to the inside rear wheel when cornering to generate inner-directed yaw momentum on the vehicle and achieve extremely quick and smooth "on-the-rail cornering". Besides helping acceleration and all-terrain performance, this groundbreaking AWD system also uses drive power to help turn the vehicle. Along with its thrilling handling and cornering that responds faithfully to driver operations, it also offers outstanding handling stability that ensures a high level of secure feeling and confident drive..."
read the entire press release, and check out the Viziv website http://www.subaru-global.com/special/viziv/index.html
viziv concept shown at geneva auto show 2013 subaru viziv concept car
VIZIV concept car
 
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12/8/2012 Subaru concept law enforcement drone wins the LA auto show design challenge
"Part of the festivities that encompass the LA Auto Show is the annual LA Design Challenge. This year's winner was the Subaru Highway Automated Response Concept, or SHARC. It envisioned automated, zero-emission highway patrolling. The 2012 edition of the challenge was to envision the future of highway patrol in the year 2025. The goal was to conceptualize a vehicle that would account for the needs of "dynamic urban environments." In addition to Subaru's participation in the contest BMW, General Motors, Honda and Mercedes-Benz, all took part in the challenge.
The SHARC is essentially a law enforcement land-drone. It is entirely automated and runs on renewable energy. Subaru envisioned a future where the Hawaiian Islands are connected to each other by a large highway system. Such an expansive area would require considerable manpower to patrol. The concept of an autonomous patrol vehicle would eliminate the need for a good number of full-time personnel.
Given the proliferation of UAVs and the ongoing development of autonomous cars, this notion of an automated patrol vehicle could be a reality in years to come. For this vision of the future, Subaru was awarded as the 2012 LA Design Challenger winner...." read the entire article with many more photos
Subaru winning entry at LA design competition, 2012 LA auto show
Subaru's
Highway Automated Response Concept winning entry at the 2012 LA auto show design competition
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left side 2012 Impreza concept sedan
2012 Impreza concept car shown at the 2010 LA auto show 11/19/28, 2010. Full page of photos
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gullwing hybrid concept 2009 Tokyo Motor Show  starting 10/21/09

 'Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept' car to be shown at the 2009 Tokyo motor show starting October 21, 2009. Subaru imagined wings with a feeling of freedom and confidence for driving far and wide in any environment, and this is a a 'new proposal for the future of grand touring car that integrates environmental friendliness, driving performance, and safety at a high level' more below
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Subaru Impreza XV concept at 2010 Geneva car show... diesel and 2.0L gas
Impreza Outback XV concept shown at the March 2010 80th Geneva International Motor Show

from Subaru 2/5/2010: The "Subaru Impreza XV", developed on the basis of the iconic Impreza 5-door model, offers a new crossover styling. Exclusively designed front grille and wheel arch, and specially equipped roof rails and a roof spoiler accentuate the uniqueness of this special Impreza version.
The available 2.0-litre Horizontally-opposed petrol engine and the turbo boxer diesel engine comply with European EURO 5 regulations for enhanced environmental friendliness.
Length x Width x Height:  4,430 x 1,770 x 1,520mm (1,515mm for Diesel model). Wheelbase:  2,620 mm

I wouldn't expect the diesel version to come to the US
 
 
gullwing hybrid concept 2009 Tokyo Motor Show  starting 10/21/09
length 4,630 x width 1,890 x height 1,420mm
Starting 10/21/09 at the Tokyo Motor Show Fugi Heavy Industries will show the 'Subaru Hybrid Tourer Concept' car, a 'new proposal for the future of grand touring car that integrates environmental friendliness, driving performance, and safety at a high level'
Subaru imagined wings with a feeling of freedom and confidence for driving far and wide in any environment.
This hybrid has a two-motor system with a power/drive motor in the front and a drive motor in the rear.
At start-up and extremely low speeds when fuel efficiency is low, such as when driving the car into a garage, the rear motor is used primarily to allow driving without utilizing the power of the engine. During normal driving, the front engine is primarily used. During acceleration, the rear motor assists the driving power of the front engine. Further, when accelerating uphill, the front motor, which is normally used as a power generator, assists to drive the front axle for improved performance.
The use of a high-performance lithium battery is based on experience achieved with the Subaru Plug-in Stella electric vehicle, launched this summer. This includes the use of a precise energy management system and regenerative brake controls, for improvements in excellent fuel efficiency.
The top of the dashboard is movable up and down to provide an optimal driver oriented environment.
Subaru has integrated EyeSight,a unique driving assist system, with vehicle-to-vehicle and road-to-vehicle communication technology. EyeSight includes a collision prevention system that uses its unique stereo camera technology to recognize a wide range of driving environments. This next-generation driver assistance system provides improved safety and peace-of-mind for passengers, and represents a major evolution in collision detection performance.
 
January 11, 2009 – Subaru of America revealed the 2009 Subaru Lgeacy concept today at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. The new Legacy concept is a hint at the future of Legacy design. The design showcases the sport sedan heritage of the Subaru Legacy, but in more modern and purposeful package. 
Marking the 20th anniversary of the Subaru Legacy, the Legacy concept has been
developed to showcase the Legacy’s sporting capabilities and features Subaru’s Symmetrical
All-Wheel Drive system mated to a Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. The design concept is
based on a larger 108.3 in. wheelbase designed to maximize interior space and provide
comfortable accommodations for four adults.
The theme of concept design is "Presence", represented by the aggressive front facia and solid
yet expressive body. Four powerful and defined wheel arches emphasize the dynamism of
Symmetrical AWD. Sharp design lines carve out a substantial mass as they flow from the hood,
across the roof to the trunk, while the sharp body lines project a sense of strength. Wedgeshaped
Side Rear Vision Cameras are featured and provide a sense of flow from the
momentum of the A-pillar lines. A character line runs from just before the A-pillar and sweeps up
to the tail just above the taillamps.
don't expect the production model due later this year to be as stylized
2010 Subaru Legacy concept car rear and side view
rear and side view of the 2010 Subaru Legacy concept car shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January 
steering wheel, 2010 Subaru Legacy concept car
2010 Subaru Legacy concept car steering wheel, shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January 
side view of the 2010 Subaru Legacy concept car
2010 Subaru Legacy concept car side view, shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January 
front and side view- 2010 Subaru Legacy concept car
front and side view of the 2010 Subaru Legacy concept car, shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January
2010 Subaru Legacy concept, center console
2010 Subaru Legacy concept car center console, shown at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January 

2010 Legacy concept car

12/17/08. It's official- 'SoA today announced that the Subaru Legacy Concept will debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit January 11th 2009. The NAIAS is open to the public January 17 through 25, 2009. Celebrating 20 years of the Legacy sedan, the LEGACY CONCEPT showcases the direction of future Legacy sedan design. The exterior highlights the sportiness and dynamism befitting a car powered by a 3.6-liter Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine. A distinctive front fascia and flared wheel arches establish a powerful road presence and hint at the exceptional handling promised by the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and low center of gravity. The interior embodies modern, high-tech architecture while delivering a comfortable environment for occupants.
The Subaru Legacy series was first introduced in 1989 and next year it will celebrate its 20th anniversary of the start of production. Manufactured in Gunma, Japan and Lafayette, Indiana USA, global production has exceeded 3.6 million units.* The United States accounts for 43% of the production volume. The model has been highly acclaimed as a core product of Subaru in the world due to its excellent driving performance, strong safety record and dependability provided by Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical AWD system with Horizontally- Opposed engines.'



Subaru Exiga crossover concept car, at 2007 Tokyo Motor Show
Is this a preview of the redesigned 2010 US Outback in 2009? See the Legacy above. The Subaru Exiga crossover concept car, shown at 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. More details on the Japanese verison below
2009 Forester Mountain Rescue concept car show at SEMA 2008, in Las Vegas
2009 Forester Mountain Rescue concept car show at 2008 SEMA  in Las Vegas

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EXIGA available in Japan
Subaru Exiga crossover concept car, at 2007 Tokyo Motor Show
This is not the same as expected here in the US/Canada
Despite a body size that’s convenient for maneuvering, the EXIGA comfortably accommodates up to seven occupants, ensuring ample space and a pleasant ride for each passenger.
The EXIGA has realized ideal proportions that provide the optimal body size for better handling, as well as ample interior space through its carefully calculated measurements of the height, width, length, wheelbase, floor size, and roof design.
• Front and rear visibility is maximized by the creative design and positioning of pillars and windows.
• The three rows of seats are laid out at three different heights, like gradually elevated theater seating, placing the first and second rows slightly lower than the third to allow all passengers better outside views.
• A large panoramic glass roof fully covers area above the second row of seats and enhances the openness of the interior. The glass roof is available as an option on all models except the 2.0i.
• Large rear door openings with wide plastic door sills are designed to facilitate ingress and egress, and the rear doors also open nearly 90 degrees for easy access to the third-row seating.
• A double-wishbone rear suspension with reduced projection into the interior makes room for comfortable third-row seats and a wide luggage compartment.
• The subframe between the rear suspension and the chassis helps to reduce vehicle noise and absorb vibrations from the road.
• By using the newly designed resin fuel tank and optimizing the body frame structure, the floor has been made flat to provide spacious legroom for passengers in the third row.


 
2009 Forester Mountain Rescue concept car
2009 Forester Mountain Rescue concept
The 2009 Forester Mountain Rescue Concept shown at 2008 SEMA in Las Vegas (November 2008) has more than 14" of ground clearance with an Air Lift custom adjustable ride height air suspension system and huge Yokohama Geolandar 30 x 9.5-in. tires on special 15" wheels. Other upgrades include custom front and rear DeeZee skid plates, Bushwacker Trail Armor fender flares, door cladding, rear gate guard and tail light guards, Subaru Baja sport activity lights (remember those?), 7 roof mounted LED spotlights, a 9,500lb winch, remote rear door openers, extra wide round crossbars and a rescue toboggan!  But mostly it has 14" of ground clearance!

 
 

 
R1e electric car, in Japan 2009?
Japanese market R1e electric car, available in Japan 2009? No plans for a US model announced.
Update April 2008, New York City is testing these Fall 2008. 
Updated Sept 2009. NY City now expects the car spring 2009 
Stella electric concept car
Stella electric concept car. 
4/2009 After some years of talk and developement, it looks like the Stella electric vehicle will finally go into test production this summer when 15 cars are made for testing in Japan. More on concept cars
2008: The plug-in Stella Concept can cover 50 miles on a single charge, and its battery can be fully recharged in eight hours through a household socket.
"For city commuting, this is enough," Fuji Heavy spokesman Shinichi Murata says. "This is the best we can do with today's technology at a reasonable cost."
Fuji is targeting fleet sales of up to 200 units during the car's first year (2010-11?). Stella leasing will begin in Japan, but the company has no immediate plans to bring it overseas.
concept Legacy STI shown at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon
January 2008: concept Legacy STI shown at the 2007 Tokyo Auto Salon
WRX WR Blue golf cart for Marine Steven Schultz
a custom golf cart for Marine Steven Schultz, wounded in Iraq, 12/26/2006
(Update: US model on sale 2007)

11/2006 2007 Forester Sport XT.  Forester Sports 2.5 XT, also introduced at SEMA, the concept car adds hot rod parts from the company's STI and SPT divisions to beef up the Forester's performance even further. By eliminating its roof rail crossbars and adding a new front bumper, grille and 17-inch wheels, some of the Forester's more frumpy design elements have been slimmed down on the standard Forester Sports 2.5 XT.... more

2007 Subaru Forester XT Sport concept carcourtesy Edmunds.com

January 14-22, 2006 Subaru shows B5-TPH and R1e hybrid concept cars at the 2006 North American Int'l Auto Show in Detroit. news release
 
Subaru B5 concept hydbrid
concept Subaru B5-TPH 2door hatchback hybrid at 2005 Tokyo Auto Show
photo c SoA

2005 Tokyo Auto Show, Subaru shows the B5 TPH (turbo parallel hybrid) concept, a 3door hatchback using the 1st hybrid boxer engine. The front end is similar to the 2006 Impreza and Tribeca. With a turbo parallel hybrid powertrain and 2.0L Miller cycle turbo engine, and expected to produce more than 300 hp. That would increase low end torque, improve fuel economy, and reduce emissions. For more on this and other hybrids, see my hybrid page
info courtesy edmunds.com and cardesignews.com

March 2003 B11S introduced at 73rd International Geneva Auto Show
Subaru B11 concept car
this information courtesy SoA
Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd., a global manufacturer of transportation and aerospace-related products and the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the unveiling of a revolutionary concept car, the Subaru B11S, at the 73rd International Geneva Motor Show to be held from March 6 to 16. Combining sophisticated sporty design with ample interior space, the Subaru B11S represents a new type of four-door Coupe. While it was developed to demonstrate FHI’s future design direction and strengthened design capabilities, the Subaru B11S also features superb driving performance, which is ensured by a Symmetrical AWD (all-wheel-drive) system in combination with a horizontally-opposed engine.
B11S concept from Subaru, 2003
Since Kyoji Takenaka assumed the title of President and Chief Operating Officer in June 2001, FHI has been enhancing its design capabilities as part of companywide reforms aimed at improving the Subaru brand. One year later, as FHI began placing greater emphasis on the importance of design development, the long experienced Subaru car designer, Kiyoshi Sugimoto, was promoted to the position of Vice President, Senior General Manager of Subaru Product and Portfolio Planning Division and General Manager of Subaru Design Department, which marked the first time that a car designer was appointed to the executive officers. The Subaru B11S is the first concept car designed under the leadership of Mr. Sugimoto with guidance from Mr. Takenaka in initial concept development. The Barcelona-based independent design studio, Fuore Design International, under the leadership of Erwin Himmel, which has been retained by FHI as a consultancy, contributed to the creation of the B11S.
Concept The B11S has been developed to pursue the concept of Gran Utility Turismo, which embodies the perfect blend of sporty driving, comfort, functionality and elegance. The car incorporates all the crucial ingredients of this concept. It features attractive styling and packaging, which further reflect FHI’s corporate philosophy, Innovative, Individual and Courageous; Subaru’s technological strengths, such as the horizontally-opposed engine and a Symmetrical AWD system; and driving performance equivalent to a high-performance sports car for the enthusiast.
Exterior design The exterior design, composed of sophisticated flowing curves, expresses an elegant, sleek Coupe, while the car comfortably accommodating four adults. The front fascia, which fortifies its sporty look, conjures the turbine of a small jet plane and the freedom of flying wings—an association with FHI’s corporate roots as an aircraft company, as well as a reminder of outstanding aerodynamic technology and performance.
The two pairs of side doors open like gates and latch in the middle without a conventional B-pillar, an arrangement that facilitates access to the back seats and makes interior room seem even more spacious. Developed specifically for the B11S, the frosted glass roof provides an open-air feeling, as in a convertible, and it creates a pleasant soft light inside the vehicle that enhances the quality look of its interior. The unique glass roof design was inspired by the design and construction of traditional Japanese umbrellas.
Interior design  In sharp contrast to the white pearl body color, for the interior of the B11S the color blue has been selected influenced by Subaru's characteristic color. Strong emphasis was placed on crafting an understated yet high-quality ambience in the cabin’s design, which is reminiscent of Japanese interior decoration and its attention-to-detail approach. In addition, the folding backseats allow easy access to and from the trunk for luggage or sports equipment. The interior provides a comfortable space for passengers and offers practical solutions at the same time.
Performance The B11S has been equipped with a new, horizontally-opposed, 6-cylinder engine. This engine, which will meet both the needs of driving pleasure and the demands of environmental considerations, is currently under development. Thanks to twin-turbocharger, the engine will ensure a smooth ride in low- and middle-speed ranges while it achieves a maximum output of 294 kW (400 ps) and a maximum torque of 550 Nm (56.1 kgfm).
AWD system integrated with a 5-speed automatic transmission comes with VTD (variable torque distribution), Subaru’s unique, electronically controlled torque distribution system. While the basic torque distribution ratio of front to rear wheels is set at 35% and 65%, respectively, the VTD optimally controls the torque distribution between front and rear wheels according to driving conditions and realizes a high level of balance between the yawing tendency of a vehicle and highspeed stability
this information courtesy SoA

 
 
ST-X September 2000 (produced as Baja)

September 2000. Subaru of America announces plans to build a truck based on the ST-X concept, built in Lafayette, Indiana, beginning late 2002. Annual production expected 24,000 cars

Subaru created the crossover category with the introduction of Outback (1996) and is now taking the concept further hoping the ST-X will do the same for the youth market and the home-owner by adding the practicality of a 4 seat, 4 door all wheel drive truck with supercharged performance.
Subaru also made the Brat, a similar 2 door model.

Made by Specialized Vehicles (SVI) of Troy, Michigan.
Engine:  2.5L with intercooled Eaton supercharger. 230 @ 5,600 rpm, 210 lbs/ft of peak torque. The intercooler is from the Japanese B4.
All wheel drive: dual-range 5-speed transmission
Clearance: 8.5"
Wheelbase 104.3" (same as Legacy/Outback)
Bed, length 55.5" extending 20.5" inches to 76" with the Switchback System which works by lowering a power-retractable rear window glass into the rear seatback. 
Wide enough for a 4x8 sheet of plywood! 
Rear headrests drop from the roof and fold up out of the way when Switchback open. 
Rear seat cushion flips forward, its bottom forming the rear wall of the cargo bed, and the seatback folds down forming the flat cargo floor. 
Bed width 54.5", 44.5" between the wheel wells
Bed height 18.7" inches
Tires: 225/55 R17 Yokohama AVS S/T tires
Wheels: 17" x 7" Enkei 
Stereo McIntosh AM/FM/CD, 650 watts, three amplifiers, 7 McIntosh speakers. 

Body The ST-X uses a lot of Legacy/Outback sheet metal, with modified fenders, and an altered front fascia for larger fog-lights, plus inboard pencil-beam driving lights. New upper and lower grills give the ST-X a bolder variation of the basic Outback design. 
The hood with integral scoop comes from the Japanese-market Legacy B4 sedan.
The switchback system was planned with a power rear window that would drop-down into the passenger-cargo separation wall.
There was a 'super large power fabric sunroof'
Rear Outback doors have been shortened and all doors have Forester type pull-type handles. 
The rear quarter panels have been extended seven inches with a sculpted bumper. The ST-X uses Outback wagon tail light lenses frenched behind louvers.

The Baja they actually offered in 2003 was not a turbo and the power rear glass Switchback was gone. READ MORE 


 
 
October 14, 2003
Fuji Heavy Industries’ exhibition at the 37th Tokyo Motor Show 2003.

This information courtesy http://www.subaru.com.hk/pdf/SNW0310.pdf

Fuji Heavy Industries, manufacturer of transportation, space related products, and Subaru automobiles, announced the major features of its Subaru vehicles and their technologies, which will be exhibited at the 37th Tokyo Motor Show

In the booth, the Symmetrical AWD – the core technology to our ideal performance criteria – and the next-generation power source, Subaru’s own advanced technologies to move and satisfy people through driving are shown. The two concept cars exhibited are created by Subaru’s design team headed by Advanced Design’s Chief Designer Andreas Zapatinas. Subaru’s nextgeneration design trends, in which the function of the car and emotional aesthetics are shown in those concept cars.



Subaru concept car, B9 Scrambler  c SoASubaru alternative fuel concept convertible, 2004, cSOA
B9 SCRAMBLER, c SoA
Subaru B9 Scrambler. B9 is a “scrambler” type automobile just like such kind of motorcycle had been existed and it means open air and on/off-road availability.
The car’s powertrain is called Sequential Series Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SSHEV) – a fusion of our own Symmetrical AWD and the latest HEV technologies.

The SSHEV system drives the car at the most frequently used speed ranges (up to around 80 km/h) with a high-performance motor and realizes smooth acceleration, good fuel efficiency and superb environmental performances.
With the run-flat tires on, the B9 Scrambler features the variable-height air suspension that can adjust minimum ground clearance from 150 mm to 200 mm, in addition to the auto leveling function.
The styling, free from stereotypes and existing limitations, is advanced yet gives somewhat familiar feelings. The design elements found on the B9 Scrambler such as the dashboard that conjures up an image of an aircraft’s wing, suggest Subaru’s tradition as an aircraft manufacturer and our design trends in the future.


Subaru concept car, c SoA
R2, c SoA
The R2 is a fashionable, lively minicar that offers richer driver life. Despite of its small sizes, the R2’s exquisite build quality makes the car having classless, strong and tangible presence. The “One-Motion Form” flowing from the front end to the roof top underlines the R2’s distinctive silhouette, while the exterior and interior represents “Sportiveness” and “Elegance.” 
The 4-cylinder DOHC Natural Aspiration engine with Active Valve Control System is newly developed for the R2. Combined with the i-CVT, the engine makes the top-level fuel economy within the class and mobility compatible. The supercharged engine offers even more enjoyable and sportier riding with a 7-speed sports shift combined.
The chassis members with maximum-strength forms, along with the body panels having optimal curves for increased strength, are used to achieve important goals in this environmentally conscious age: to save resources. Weight reduction and safety performances go hand in hand on the R2. It features improved compatibility in the event of an accident and pedestrian protection.


Subaru concept car, c SoA
Subaru R1e c SoA
As a mobile tool that fits well with personal use in the urban life, the Subaru R1e features a 2 + 2 layout packaging. The Electric Vehicle (EV) power unit uses a high-performance battery and advanced power control technology with consideration given to the environment as well. The optimum packaging that fits urban lifestyle and provides joyful driving. This results in an overall length shorter than Japanese minicars, with emotional and energetic proportion.
The 2 + 2 packaging is ideal for urban single- and two-person lifestyle. Compact sizes offer ease of parking and flexibility: indispensable elements to urban life.
The EV system uses a light, compact brushless motor with high output and excellent reliability and manganese lithium-ion battery featuring very high energy density. The battery can be charged by taking electric power out of the single-phase 200V AC outlet which is generally used for home air
conditioners.
Driving the R1e is done with two pedals (throttle and brake) just like normal automatic transmission cars. In addition, the creep control and electric motor-assisted power steering enhance driving ease in actual daily use.

Subaru Legacy Touring Wagon TransCare
Designed to provide comfortable driving to handicapped person and senior citizens, this Legacy uses a rotative passenger wing seat. The passenger seat rotates and protrudes from the body by 80 mm, making it easier to sit in and get out of the seat. The seat’s rotation can be done with a wireless remote. The comfortable seat is same as other Legacy models, and its electric slide control with 240 mm of slide range makes long-distance drives a joy. The model shown at this
year’s Tokyo Motor Show is equipped with a special drive aid developed for the drivers with a leg handicap. A pull-type throttle ring and brake bar are positioned behind the steering wheel to control acceleration and braking. The TransCare can also be operated by non-handicapped person in the same way as regular cars.
Subaru Legacy Sedan (B4) CNG (shown at the Environment Experience Land)
The Legacy B4 CNG is a low exhaust-gas emission vehicle and utilizes natural gas which is a resource that can be produced and supplied within Japan’s soils. Using Subaru’s 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed DOHC 4-cylinder engine with Active Valve Control System as a base and combining it with a multi-point fuel injection developed specially for CNG, the engine produces high performance over wide rpm ranges and realizes U-LEV equivalent environmental performance at the same time.
This vehicle equipped with AWD that exercise active safety feature, and in passenger CNG only available in this vehicle. Major launching target will be, an official car segment (middle sedan CNG), and the cold place where the need for AWD is strong.

END Fuji Heavy Industries’ exhibition at the 37th Tokyo Motor Show 2003
this information courtesy http://www.subaru.com.hk/pdf/SNW0310.pdf

 
1999 Forester Woody at the Chicago Auto Show  February 12-21, 1999
1999 Subaru Forester Woody concept
The 1999 Forester Woody shown at the Chicago Auto Show was made with mahogany and ash wood veneer, small moon hubcaps on color matched wheels. Roof rack (two snowboard size), retro interior with wicker-cane textured upholstery and trim, wood steering wheel and wood cargo area rub strips. It has the AutoPC voice recognition system by Clarion for navigation and communication systems. Thanks to edmunds.com and Steve Manning's http://www.stationwagon.com/

 
1996 EXIGA
1996 Subaru Exiga concept car
thanks to Steve Manning's http://www.stationwagon.com/