New Subaru Global Platform Takes Shape

Subaru-maker Fuji Heavy Industries Inc. has taken the wraps off a new global platform it expects to carry virtually all future Subaru models—including hybrids, plug-in hybrids and all-electric vehicles—through 2025.

The carmaker announced it was developing the architecture in 2014. The first vehicle to use it will be the redesigned Impreza small car that is due in the second half of this year.

Subaru says the modular platform will help it improve the safety and driving dynamics of its vehicles. The architecture also will reduce costs by sharing components and engineering resources across multiple vehicles and allow the company to change the production mix as needed between its two Japanese factories and its Lafayette, Ind., facility.

The platform enables a 70%-100% improvement in stiffness throughout the body and chassis over current models, according to Subaru. The key is an optimized frame structure, stronger joints and a greater use of high-tensile steel plates, including materials formed by a new hot press method.

Subaru says the design also reduces noise and vibration by about 15%. The improved rigidity allows for better distribution of resonance and distortion throughout the body, reducing vibrations from the steering wheel, floor and seat.

Other enhancements include a 40% gain in impact absorption and a revised suspension that helps lower a vehicle’s center of gravity. Subaru says body roll has been cut in half by mounting the rear stabilizer directly to the body.

The platform will support Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel drive system and horizontally opposed “boxer” engines. Vehicles built on the architecture also will be fitted with Subaru’s new “Eyesight” automated driving technologies, starting next year with a traffic-jam assist function that controls throttle and steering at speeds as great as 40 mph.

In addition to the Impreza, the new platform will carry the next-generation versions of the WRX sports sedan, Outback wagon and Forester SUV, as well as the all-new Crosstrek crossover vehicle and a new three-row SUV due to replace the Tribeca in 2018. The BRZ coupe, which Subaru co-developed with Toyota Motor Corp., is the only vehicle that won’t utilize the new platform.