Tuesday 17th JuneSUBARU EXIGA
Subaru launches 225bhp seven-seat MPV
Subaru Exiga 2.0GTSubaru has launched its new Exiga in Japan, a seven-seater MPV that is closely related to the Impreza. The car goes on sale in Japanese dealerships today and will be available with a normally aspirated and turbocharged 2-litre.
The MPV market in Japan is booming and Subaru has decided to go with a giant estate look rather than a one-box van design. The 225bhp 2.0GT EXIGA is the top model at present and should offer decent handling and performance.
The Exiga has the longest wheelbase of any Subaru model and it uses the new multi-link suspension which is also found in the latest Impreza.
There is no STi version as yet but as Subaru has launched the Exiga with a sporty version (2.0GT) it is clear the company wants its MPV to be seen as more than just a worthy people carrier. The AWD 2.0GT gets a turbocharger specifically designed for the Exiga which will maximise low-end torque.
Also a lightweight intake manifold that has smooth inner walls that is less resistant to intake flow, improving efficiency. The car also gets the SI-Drive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system from the Impreza STi, offering three different modes of driving: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp.
There is also a panoramic roof and a number of seating combinations to maximise passenger and luggage space.
