Auto Channel

Subaru will be using the Geneva Auto Show to introduce their new boxer diesel engine to Legacy and Outback models. The long awaited engine is a 2.0L that produces 110kW (150 PS)/3600 rpm and has a maximum torque output of 350Nm/1800 rpm. Both models will come with electronic steering in order to maximize fuel efficiency. Several other models will be making their European debut at the show, including the new Subaru Forester crossover which will also be available with the 2.0L diesel. Two electric vehicles will be on display, the G4e concept seats five and is expected to be able to travel up to 200 kilometers per charge. Currently undergoing testing in Japan, the R1e can fully charge in 8 hours using standard household current and is able to obtain an 80 percent charge in 15 minutes using a quick charger.

Press Release

The World’s First SUBARU BOXER DIESEL debuts with the Legacy/Outback

Tokyo, February 8, 2008 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced the major features of its Subaru exhibit at the 78th Geneva International Motor Show slated for March in Geneva, Switzerland (Press days: March 4 and 5; Open to the public from March 6 through 16).

FHI will present the Subaru Legacy and the Outback, which are outfitted with the company’s unique Subaru Boxer Diesel and due to be released into the European market ahead of other parts of the world. In addition, models to be exhibited include the new Subaru Forester, which will make a debut in Europe, and the Subaru G4e Concept and the Subaru R1e electric vehicles as environmental-friendly solutions. FHI will hold a press conference at the Subaru booth at 14:30 March 4, 2008. Ikuo Mori, FHI’s President and CEO, will be present to speak with the media
1. Subaru Legacy/Outback 2.0D

FHI applied the world’s first Horizontally-Opposed Diesel Engine “Subaru Boxer Diesel” for passenger vehicles to the Subaru Legacy and the Outback. For the two models, the Subaru Boxer Diesel is mated with Subaru’s unique symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) to achieve driving performance standards only Subaru is capable of. These standards include high-level stability and outstanding acceleration thanks to powerful low- and medium-speed torque.

On top of this, the two models adopt new electric power steering to achieve both improved fuel efficiency and fun to drive. They not only comply with the Euro 4 emission regulations, but realize top-level fuel economy for AWD passenger vehicles, thereby integrating driving performance into the environment.
Subaru Boxer Diesel: Features

The Subaru Boxer Diesel takes advantage of high rigidity of the horizontally opposed engine. It uses an aluminum-alloy cylinder block. With its engine width equivalent to that of a horizontally opposed petrol engine of the same displacement volume, it is 61.3-mm shorter in length, achieving top-level lightweight and compact design of the class.

Its unique layout allows the right and left pistons to negate each other’s inertia. This translates into smooth rotational balance, low vibration and superior quietness. Furthermore, thanks to excellent accelerator response, and with reduced friction and inertia resulting in smooth acceleration, the Subaru Boxer Diesel features engine characteristics worth the name of a sport diesel.
Subaru Boxer Diesel: Main specifications

* Engine type: Horizontally opposed 4-cylinder DOHC 16-valve turbo diesel
* Displacement: 1998 cc
* Maximum output: 110 kW (150 PS)/3600 rpm
* Maximum torque: 350 Nm (35.7 kgf·m)/1800 rpm
* CO2 emissions: 148 g/km (Legacy sedan)
* Fuel injection system: Common rail type
* Turbo type: Variable nozzle turbocharger

2. Subaru Forester

The new third-generation Subaru Forester, developed under the concept of “Best Package for Active Life,” will make its debut in Europe. This is a crossover SUV, a pure Subaru product, which provides all its passengers with ease of use, comfort and safe and pleasant driving. The 2.0-litre model will be available on the European market*. *Distribution of the 2.5-litre turbo model is limited to some distributors.
3. Subaru G4e Concept (Concept car)

The Subaru G4e Concept is a concept car that envisions a future form of an environment-friendly electric vehicle. Contrary to the traditional perception of the electric vehicle being heavy and cramped, the Subaru G4e Concept adopts a packaging that can accommodate five passengers. This is achieved by storing batteries underneath the floor, expressing an image of heading toward the future through its triangle-shaped exterior design. Thanks to its next-generation lithium-ion high-performance batteries and reduced weight, the Subaru G4e Concept is expected to travel 200 kilometers per charge.
4. Subaru R1e (Display model)

FHI aims to commercialize the Subaru R1-based Subaru R1e electric vehicle as a city commuter. A total of 40 units have been used for business activities by its joint development partner Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) to date. FHI plans to test-market around 100 units of EV during 2009 in Japan. This electric vehicle can be fully charged in eight hours on a standard household current and an 80 percent charge is possible in 15 minutes using a quick charger.