Automobile Blog

Subaru Unveils High-Performance Hybrid For Tokyo

Subaru’s Impreza is hardly short of pace, but Subaru’s Tokyo motor show concept demonstrates the Japanese maker’s commitment to trying to provide a touch of economy as well for its replacement. Subaru has developed a new model that is not only stunning to look at but environmentally-friendly too.

Called the B5-TPH (for Turbo Parallel Hybrid) the three-door coupe combines a high powered 2.0-liter flat four engine with an electric motor located between the engine and transmission. A new type of manganese lithium ion battery charges to 95% capacity in just five minutes and operates not just in city driving but also when cruising.

The design of the Subaru B5-TPH itself is a striking one featuring smooth contours and a large tailgate, hinged just behind the B-post. Its ‘crossover’ theme combines the practicality of a hatchback, fun of a coupe and all-terrain ability of a SUV, complete with a 200 mm ground clearance. Meanwhile, Subaru’s much-admired full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive and low-centre-of-gravity ‘boxer’ engine ensures agile handling.

Subaru will display the car at the Tokyo Auto Show.