A new report from 7Tune suggests Subaru may abandon plans to create an AWD version of its FT-86 model.
The FT-86, a co-developed two-door sports coupe between Toyota and Subaru, was supposed to be offered in RWD for Toyota and AWD for Subaru. But with costs escalating, Subaru may have to ditch these plans meaning both manufacturers could offer RWD only varaints.
Now several months into development, a source within the company told 7Tune Subaru have discovered the costs required to modify the FT-86 platform for AWD are “too great” and the feasibility of continuing with a separate model is “simply not practical”.
Should Subaru have to offer the same RWD model as Toyota there will be very little difference between the two manufacturer’s mechanical package, with both models already reported to share a 149kW 2.0-litre Subaru boxer engine.
For now, sources say Subaru will instead focus of a “thorough re-working of the vehicle’s exterior design” in an attempt to differentiate its variant from that of the Toyota.
(Image courtesy of 7Tune)
Does this mean no FT86 based Subaru for Australia considering Subaru’s current AWD only policy!?
Subaru doesnt really need an image boost for performance down here in Oz. The WRX and STi, not to mention the B-Spec GT Liberty are fantastic performance wise.
Toyota needs a sports coupe/performance based car much much more than Subaru at the moment, considering A) Toyota doesnt have 1 the last 5 years B) They need image boost and direction of company requires it.
Toyota just need to make sure that it comes out here in Oz, with a below 45K price range. 149kW for a 1100kg vehicle (stock) is nice.
45 000, dam… i hope it cheaper. and i’d buy toyotas version over the subaru any day
I think it will weight more than 1100kg aswell. Corolla weights 1250 and im sure the rear wheel drive set up with heavier than FWD.
Knowing Toyota though It’ll be $50k ++++
Just look at the idiotic pricing they put on the MR2 and the Celica.
I can’t see Subaru throwing years of “symmetry creates balance and control” advertising in the bin. They have created a unified message across their range that AWD is superior to both FWD and RWD so I simply think it will go against what they have worked so hard to build. I think it will come down to different markets getting either the Toyota or Subaru variant based upon market acceptance and sales rather than having both in the same segment. Yowza is spot on though Toyota need a sports car very badly, something to inspire car enthusiasts to buy their cars again!
The Toyota is probably going to be $45-50k to compete with the MX-5. No convertible but more powerful, they will chase the same group of buyers
Subaru should just badge it an Sti and not a Subaru.
Toyota FT 86 is going to be 2500lbs ish, which is a little over 1000kg mark. It’s a bit longer than a Audi TT and a bit shorter than a Lotus Evora.
As much as I want this thing to be good I just feel it won’t be. For it to sell well it must be a good balance of looks, price and performance. It will weigh at least 1200kg and while 149kw is nice (if it actually produces that much) – the lack of torque at 200Nm is more meaningful. Such a car would be lucky to better 15.5s over 400m. This car would struggle to sell for over $35,000. Perhaps if it had an Audi badge it could sell of $50k.
I mean sure the performance will be OK but this is 2010. A hot hatch now cuts 15.0 if not quicker and handles well while being totally practical. this car is taking away some practicality and will need to replace that with superior handling. Coming into the market with a 1/2 second slower 400m time is not a good start. It’s going to need to beat a few skeptics around the head with great performance to convince people it isn’t just another Paseo, MRS, Celica.
The main competitor is 3-door VW GTi – at $40,000. Nice interior, good handling, better badge credentials, more practical, faster (and does it a lot easier with more torque).
Without a turbo the Toyota would need to be at least $5,000 cheaper.
Funnily enough in the UK the direct competitor to the AE86 was the Golf GTi.
Why bother subarau,no AWD,its becoming less and less of a subaru and just more toyota.