The world received its first glimpse of what the Subaru Coupe, code name FT-86, would look like when it was clad pornographically with a clear exterior, bearing image to the internal structure of the car, at the Geneva Auto Convention. It debuted alongside the sister car from Toyota, which seems to be inspired by the boy racer community that so devoutly supported the Supra. This leads yours truly to speculate that Toyota may brand the new car as such.
Subaru has claimed that the exterior of their version will appeal to a more mature audience and be tweaked with both different front and rear fascias. Apparently, Subaru plans to distance itself even more from its rallying heritage with the FT-86, claiming that it is a car to fit into the brands “premium” image.
The FT-86 will be powered by a Boxer 4 cylinder engine and will run on a shortened Impreza suspension. Sources say that an STI model may follow in the future but I disagree since the FT-86 will be a rear drive coupe, something that the STI badge has never adorned. To me the decision to produce this coupe in a rear wheel drive format is a mistake. It should run in the vicinity of $25,000 dollars. Roughly 3,000 more than the Toyota counter-part. Not only is this a mistake economically, but Subaru has developed a following based on getting fantastic all-wheel drive for a bargain. I feel as though this rear wheel coupe will polarize Subaru fans and cause customers looking for a premium coupe to look elsewhere.
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