Frankfurt: Subaru WRC Concept

Subaru has chosen September’s 62nd Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) for the biggest new model blitz in its history.

Key attractions include the European debut for the completely new Impreza, a striking World Rally Car Concept, facelifted Tribeca luxury SUV, totally new Justy supermini and the world’s first horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ turbo-diesel engine – due to be progressively installed in various models from spring 2008.

Subaru WRC driver, Petter Solberg, will speak at the Subaru press conference (Tuesday, September 11, Hall 8 at 2 pm) when the new Impreza-based WRC Concept will be unveiled.

Described as an indication of future styling trends for a world rally car, the WRC Concept is sure to draw the crowds – and conjure up speculation among enthusiasts and the press alike.

Also presenting at the press conference is Mr Matsatsugu Nagato, Fuji Heavy Industries’ Executive Vice President in charge of European markets.

He will unveil the completely new Impreza five-door hatchback in its 1.5 and 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated formats – aimed at appealing to a wider audience while still retaining Subaru’s distinctive ‘boxer’ engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. Both technologies offer outstanding handling and roadholding with ‘real world’ active safety.

On-sale late September in the UK, the new Impreza boasts substantially increased passenger space thanks to a new platform with new multi-link, double-wishbone rear suspension which gives agile handling combined with an exceptionally absorbent ride.

Other exhibits include a facelifted Tribeca with new front and rear styling plus a larger – but more efficient – 3.6 litre ‘boxer’ engine mated to a more responsive five-speed automatic gearbox. Other improvements include easier access to the optional third row of seats in the seven-seat versions.

A surprise appearance at the show is a completely new Justy 1.0 litre five-door supermini offering superb fuel economy coupled with low exhaust emissions. The front-wheel drive Justy will be supplied to Subaru for sale in Europe by Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.

Also guaranteed to generate intense interest is a display Subaru Boxer Turbo Diesel engine which will be fitted progressively to various models from spring 2008.

The world’s first horizontally-opposed diesel engine promises outstanding refinement, smoothness and low weight for excellent handling.  In addition, fuel economy, performance and emissions will all be class-challenging.

Also underlying Subaru’s commitment to developing environmentally-friendly technologies is an example of its R1e electric city car – already in use in Japan.