Subaru To Unveil New ‘Boxer’ Hybrid Concept

The concept features key elements of the company’s renowned technological ‘DNA’, notably a horizontally-opposed engine – in this instance the world’s first ‘boxer’ hybrid powerplant – and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD). It marries these with an opulent and spacious cabin accessed through elongated gullwing-style doors, and an eye-catching, finely sculpted body.

Styling wise,the absence of B-pillars gives a heightened sense of light and space in the cabin, providing occupants with an unobstructed view of the outside world. The swept-back panoramic windscreen and a height-adjustable dashboard afford the driver a similarly unhindered vantage point.

At the front, a bold grille featuring Subaru’s now-trademark ‘wing’ motif sits in between a pair of modern headlights. However, it is in the side profile that Subaru’s evolving design language is best appreciated. The rakish, up-swept belt-line leads from the nose backwards to the chunky C-pillars, creating an air of purposefulness and understated aggression. Large 14-spoke alloy wheels fill the subtly flared arches.

Vitally important on any grand touring car is a refined and relaxing interior space and the Subaru Hybrid delivers exactly that. With ample room for four, occupants are cosseted in a stress-free, open environment. Even in the back, despite utilising an AWD system, the engineers still managed to create a flat floor, so rearmost occupants will enjoy an extremely comfortable journey.

The innovative hybrid system uses Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and a 2-litre horizontally-opposed, direct-injection, turbocharged petrol ‘Boxer’ engine, allied to two electric motors – Subaru remains the only company to mate this engine layout to a hybrid drivetrain. The electric motors are powered by lithium-ion batteries – a 10kW item at the front and a 20kW unit at the rear.

In normal driving conditions the direct-injection petrol engine is used, but at lower speeds and start-up, the rear electric motor drives the car. The forward electric unit, which is mainly used as a power generator, kicks in to assist performance and efficiency while tackling inclines. Subaru’s in-house designed Lineartronic automatic transmission is featured, further boosting fuel efficiency and driving performance.

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