Subaru set to offer glimpse of its future

Subaru says its sportscar concept represents the first step in its future brand direction. Photo / Supplied

Subaru will launch its new "Confidence in Motion" brand banner with a new sportscar concept at the Los Angeles Motor Show this week.

It has released a teaser image of the car, saying it represents a new design direction for the Japanese carmaker.

But the show model is not expected to be the car dubbed the "Subarota" - the two-seater developed jointly with the Toyota FT-86.

Instead, says Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries, it will be an embodiment of the new slogan and the "first step" of the new marketing and brand direction.

Subaru described the "Confidence in Motion" statement as part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the Subaru brand.

It said the slogan, which from now on "will be at the centre of all Subaru activities", expresses the company's aim to continue to evolve in order to attract more customers to the brand.

This will include new models such as its version of the FT-86, as well as alternative powertrains, including hybrid and electric vehicles.

Subaru says of its tagline that "confidence" reflects "Subaru's attitude toward engineering excellence and the trust generated among drivers by following through on its commitment to provide both enjoyment and peace of mind".

"In motion" is said to express "Subaru's resolve to continue innovating to meet customer expectations in a world of constant change".

"Subaru will proactively address global environmental issues and the demands of ever-maturing automobile use," the company said.

The LA concept is expected to carry a hybrid powertrain, along the lines of the direct-injection turbocharged boxer engine and twin electric motor combination used in the Hybrid Tourer concept at last year's Tokyo Motor Show.

The hybrid engine previewed a "next-generation" 2-litre four-cylinder direct-injection turbo boxer engine, and also demonstrated Subaru's first full-blown petrol-electric hybrid drivetrain.

The system employs two electric motors - one at either end of the vehicle - plus regenerative braking and idle-stop systems and a lithium-ion battery pack similar to that found in Subaru's plug-in Stella electric vehicle.

Subaru says the direct-injection boxer four is the primary power source during normal driving, with the 20kW rear electric motor assisting the petrol engine during acceleration and the 10kW front motor also kicking in during uphill acceleration.

"Subaru believes automobiles should be more than just a means of transportation. They should also be a source of enjoyment, and enjoyment rests on a foundation of peace of mind.

"As customer expectations are diversifying, Subaru will foresee these needs with independent thinking and continue to offer enjoyment and peace of mind without losing sight of the essence of what an automobile should be."