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Subaru Global Platform to Hit the Market with the 2017 Impreza

Since Subaru was founded in 1953, the Japanese brand has become synonymous with softroaders equipped with a boxer and Symmetrical All Wheel Drive. But that was then and this is now. For the 21st century, the automaker that won three constructors’ titles in the FIA World Rally Championship looks forward to the future with the so-called Subaru Global Platform.
Subaru Global Platform 5 photos
Photo: Subaru
Subaru Global PlatformSubaru Global PlatformSubaru Global PlatformSubaru Global Platform
It’s a simple name for the architecture that will underpin everything from the Impreza compact hatchback to the Crosstrek, WRX, Outback, and Forester. The first application of the Subaru Global Platform is the 2017 Subaru Impreza, previewed by the XV Concept and due to make its first public outing later this year. So what’s so special about it, then?

According to Subaru, you’re looking at a vehicle platform that’s 70 to 100 percent more rigid than the current crop. In plain English, that’s the equivalent to “safer than ever before.” Another noteworthy aspect is that Subaru promises a 50 percent reduction in body roll, which should pay dividends when the road ahead gets twisty and the traffic is light.

The Global Platform has been developed from the get-go to be compatible with electrification. In other words, Subaru will offer core models in hybrid and plug-in hybrid flavors because more and more consumers are interested in the eco-conscious facet of motoring.

The real icing on the cake, though, is that the platform can accommodate an all-electric powertrain. Yes, ladies and gents, Subaru is set to join big boys like Tesla Motors, Nissan, BMW, Audi, and GM.

Subaru tells that the all-new Global Platform will be important to streamlining production at the company’s two factories in Japan and the Indiana-based plant in the U.S. I can’t help but tip my hat to Subaru, a small outfit that continues to prevail in the face of big players thanks to its approach to making cars.
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About the author: Mircea Panait
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After a 1:43 scale model of a Ferrari 250 GTO sparked Mircea's interest for cars when he was a kid, an early internship at Top Gear sealed his career path. He's most interested in muscle cars and American trucks, but he takes a passing interest in quirky kei cars as well.
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