Concept Future Cars: Could Subaru Grow a Pair and Develop a 911-Rivalling Supercar?

[JHF]

In the world of questions that should never be asked, some things are better left unexplored. For example why do theKardashians exist? Is it ok to deep-fry footwear and how many Hamsters do you need to fill a Kia’s fuel tank? Things we don’t care about aside; there is one question I’ve always pondered - should Subaru make an all-out Supercar?

Forget the BRZ Coupe, rally-bred WRX STI and long lost SVX; I’m talking about a competitor that can square up against the likes of Nissan’s GT-R and Porsche’s 911 Turbo S.

With that in mind and Toyota’s development of the FT-1 Supercar Concept, I've decided to delve deeper into the possibility of an hero car loosely based on Toyota’s upcoming, modern-day Suprareplacement.

Firstly, let's start with the design; the donor FT-1 has stunning organic and curvaceous surfacing. Where the Subaru differs, is in its own design language. As with my rendered example, the styling is more geometric, angular and upright. For a strong point of difference, the rear takes on a shooting-break aesthetic with an upwards-wrapping C-pillar that incorporates inlet scoops within the rear quarter windows.

The front carries Subaru’s universally used trapezoidal front grille, flanked by horizontal intakes and a race car-inspired front splitter. Large side inlets intersect aggressively against the doors, with crease-work that runs along the sills then shoots upwards to create a visual link with the A-pillars.

Within the cabin should be an environment devoid of any current Subaru design traits; instead utilising more expressive styling, quality materials and exotic finishes cosseting a 2+2 layout.

Underneath the angular aesthetic cloak, would lay front engined, all-wheel drive fundamentals - albeit with a hybrid boxer twist. Electric motors sending power to front and rear axles, coupled to a turbocharged 3.6-liter flat six, could yield supercar performance with a distinctive soundtrack.

While the traditionalist within me would wish for a manual transmission, the logical approach for such a maniacal vehicle would utilise a quick-shifting 8 or 9-speed dual-clutch unit. Sorry rubber band lovers - no CVT’s allowed in this segment.

Subaru’s offering would need to carve up corners like a laser-guided weapon; rivals such as Porsche’s 911 Turbo S and McLaren MP4-12C, are considered some of the best handling exotics out there. Add other great alternatives to the mix like Mercedes-Benz’s AMG GT, Jaguar F-Type R and 2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06; then suddenly one realises the daunting task Subaru would face.

Unfortunately, it’s at this point where reality sets back in; does Subaru have the capital, R&D and willingness from a potential partner like Toyota to make it happen? Odds are… well probably not. Although never say never and who knows - Fuji Heavy Industries may just one day surprise us.

Feasibility issues aside, would you like to see Subaru develop a 911-basher?

Share your views in the comments below.

By Josh Byrnes

 

[Giannis]

Nah, that's too much for Subaru. I could imagine a Scoob RS6-fighter in my craziest dreams, but not a 911 one.

 

[Rolf]

Nope don't think they will have the expertise or kahoenas to be able to bring out a 911 fighter. They had to share development of the BRZ with Toyota and to bring out a 911 fighter is a total ball game altogether. They don't have a good enough 6 cylinder engine, quick shift dual clutch gearbox and never mind the chassis platform to be able to compete with the 911. Also their interior build quality and interior design is mostly horrendous to compete so I would say no ways.

 

[martinbo]

These are just childish pipe-dreams from someone with an over-active imagination and a lacking appreciation of car makers, engineering and money. This is so far from what Subaru is about or even wants to be about it's not even amusing.