Subaru FT-86 to Debut at Tokyo Motor Show Without Turbo Option
Subaru’s version of the jointly developed rear-drive coupe will be unveiled alongside Toyota’s at the 2011 Tokyo show, but neither will offer a turbocharged engine.
Subaru’s long-anticipated rear-wheel-drive coupe, developed in partnership with Toyota, will make its official debut at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show. Subaru’s version of the FT-86, based on the same platform as Toyota’s FT-86 concept, will launch without the turbocharged engine that many enthusiasts had hoped for.
The FT-86 project marks a rare departure for Subaru, which is best known for its all-wheel-drive models. For this car, Subaru has supplied its 2.0-litre horizontally opposed (boxer) engine, but the coupe will use a dedicated rear-wheel-drive platform with no plans for an all-wheel-drive variant. The decision to exclude a turbocharged option also sets it apart from Subaru’s performance models such as the Impreza WRX and STI, which have made turbo power a brand signature.
Toyota and Subaru’s collaboration began in 2008, aiming to create a lightweight, affordable sports coupe. Toyota’s version will appear as the FT-86 Concept at the Tokyo show, with styling developed by Toyota’s ED2 design studio in France. Subaru’s model will share the same underpinnings and engine, but will be sold under its own badge, with production scheduled to start in spring 2012.
Engine and platform details
Both the Toyota and Subaru versions will use the naturally aspirated 2.0-litre flat-four engine, mated to a rear-wheel-drive layout. The engine’s low profile allows a lower bonnet line and centre of gravity, which should benefit handling. The FT-86 seats four and is designed to be compact and lightweight, with a focus on driving engagement rather than outright power.
Despite Subaru’s reputation for turbocharged performance, company sources have confirmed that no turbo or all-wheel-drive options are planned for this model. Instead, the car’s appeal is intended to come from its low weight, dedicated chassis and rear-drive dynamics. Toyota’s chief engineer Tetsuya Tada has emphasised that the platform is unique to the FT-86, not shared with other models, to meet the expectations of enthusiasts.
Production and market positioning
Production of the Subaru version is expected to begin in spring 2012, with Toyota’s version (to be sold as the Scion FR-S in some markets) following soon after. Pricing has not been finalised, but Toyota has indicated a target price around $20,000 to $30,000, aiming to make the car accessible to regular buyers rather than positioning it as a premium sports model.
The FT-86 project is a clear attempt by both manufacturers to recapture the spirit of affordable, driver-focused coupes such as the 1980s Toyota AE86. While some fans may be disappointed by the absence of turbocharging or all-wheel drive, both companies are betting that a light, agile platform will appeal to enthusiasts seeking a back-to-basics sports car.
