TOKYO MOTOR SHOW: Subaru Sport Mobility Concept may preview next BRZ

Subaru has peeled the covers back off a handful of new concept cars led by the previously teased Subaru Sport Mobility Concept, which could be an early preview of the third- or even fourth-generation Subaru BRZ coupe.

Defined by its square front and rear ends and interesting inboard cabin design, there’s really very little to link the Sport Mobility Concept with the BRZ stylistically, other than its identity as a purpose-built Subaru coupe.

Indeed the SMC concept loos more like the Subaru SVX coupe from the 1990s, but we do know Toyota is exploring the idea of a battery-electric GR 86, the Subaru BRZ’s twin, and Subaru sees the future of its performance models as being zero-emission.

Nevertheless, the new concept is an undeniably handsome two-door and a major departure from Subaru’s current design language, though traces of BRZ/86 can still be spotted in certain elements of the body, primarily the front bumper, intake and squinty lighting signature.

Subaru says the car’s basic framework is based around the notion of having the driver positioned on the (turning) axis of the vehicle and “controlling all four wheels at will”.

Whether or not this means the Sport Mobility Concept is rear- or all-wheel drive remains to be seen, but both eventualities are entirely feasible given the BRZ’s love of being steered with the throttle and Subaru’s wider commitment to symmetrical all-wheel drive.

“This concept model expresses the enjoyment that Subaru offers in the age of electrification, embodying the pleasure of going anywhere, anytime, and driving at will in everyday to extraordinary environments,” said Subaru.

“This is a battery electric vehicle concept that evokes the evolution of the SUBARU SPORT values.

“While offering a low seating position, the car is designed to ensure excellent visibility and perceptibility for the driver, providing a package that allows for enjoyable driving with peace of mind.”

The new sports car was joined in Tokyo by Subaru’s take on the flying car craze gradually sweeping across the industry, in the form of the Subaru Air Mobility Concept.

Details of the oversized passenger drone are few and far between at this early stage, but it’s clear the concept is representative of more than just a wish-list as Subaru has confirmed engineers from its aerospace and automotive divisions “are currently working together on flight demonstrations”.

Also making its public debut is the 2024 Subaru Solterra electric SUV, which has been updated with an expanded array of expanded Subaru Safety Sense functions, a radical new steering wheel said to express a sporty feel and a new battery pre-conditioning system to minimise variations in charging times depending on the weather.

According to Subaru, the Solterra’s DC fast-charging times in cold ambient temperatures have reduced by roughly 30 per cent – when charging at 90kW in -10 degrees Celsius – which in turn makes it better suited to and more practical in harsh climates.

The brand’s local division declined to comment on whether the JDM updates would be applied to the Australian version before its delayed local launch and said more information would be communicated in due course.

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