In the world of questions that should never be asked, some things are better left unexplored. For example why do the Kardashians 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 Supra replacement.
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
Photo Renderings Copyright Carscoops / Josh Byrnes
Photo Gallery
