Subaru unveils the revolutionary Subaru Global Platform at the Singapore Motorshow 2017

A revolutionary overhaul of Subaru's vehicle architecture

Singapore, 12 January 2017 – Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles across nine countries in Asia, has unveiled the new Subaru Global Platform at the Singapore Motorshow 2017.

The new Subaru Global Platform is a brand new revamp of Subaru's vehicle architecture, elevating overall vehicle performance and offering an unparalleled driving experience with optimised safety. The Subaru Global Platform will pave the way for a new generation of Subaru vehicles, with the All-New Impreza being the first model to fully incorporate the Subaru Global Platform.

"With significant improvements to its overall vehicle performance, the new Subaru Global Platform is set to be a game changer for the Subaru brand. The enhancements to the new platform set a new benchmark in driving comfort, performance and safety, promising drivers an experience like no other. We are excited to be able to launch the Subaru Global Platform throughout our vehicle lineup in our markets in the near future," said Mr Glenn Tan, Executive Director, Tan Chong International Ltd.

Future-proofing Subaru vehicles

Using a unified, single design concept for the development of all future Subaru models will strengthen the entire Subaru line up, as it allows for the brand to plan the main specifications of all vehicle types at one time, and offers the flexibility to adjust specifications with the requirements of different models. In addition, a single design concept will allow the brand to produce platform components for multiple models in one production facility, rather than manufacturing them in different factories. These time and cost efficiencies will be used to make Subaru products even more competitive.

The platform will continue to complement and enhance the basic foundation of Subaru's technologies such as the Boxer Engine and All-Wheel Drive. In addition, the new platform is adaptable not only to gasoline engines but also to hybrid vehicles, plug-in hybrids, electric cars, and other types of alternative power units, future-proofing the next generation of Subaru vehicles.

The new platform will make possible a new type of driving experience, appealing directly to the senses and offering better traction, control and stability — all backed up by excellent performance and specifications. Specifically, the new platform will further refine Subaru's dynamic feel in the following areas:

Confidence

Overall safety is a cornerstone in all Subaru vehicles which empowers its drivers with the confidence regardless of terrain and weather condition. The Subaru Global Platform reaches an even higher level of safety with improvements in its Active and Passive safety features.

Active safety: The new platform achieves a centre of gravity that is five millimetres lower than present models. Together with the major enhancements in rigidity and the evolution of the suspension system, this lower centre of gravity offers outstanding obstacle-avoidance capabilities on level with high-performance sports cars.

Passive safety: The cabin occupant's protection and body rigidity has been enhanced in the Subaru Global Platform as a result of the increased use of high-tensile steel plates including materials formed by the hot press method. This results in an impact energy absorption improvement over present models.

Comfort

A crucial factor that creates an enjoyable driving experience is comfort. Regardless of the type of driving, be it long-spirited drives or short trips to the supermarket, Subaru's precise engineering and innovation ensures that the driver experiences a pleasant and comfortable drive anywhere, anytime.

As a result of improved rigidity, minimised resonance and distortion throughout the body greatly reduces vibrations from the steering wheel, floor and seats. Engine mount rigidity was increased which results in acceleration noise reduction of 1 decibel. Suspension rigidity has also been increased which improves better bump absorption without warping the body of the car, providing a smooth and comfortable drive whatever the irregularities in the road surface. By mounting the rear stabiliser directly to the body, the new platform has less body roll compared to present models.

Control

Subaru vehicles have been known and praised for empowering drivers with responsive, stable control as a result of Subaru's core technologies such as the Boxer Engine and All-Wheel Drive. The Subaru Global Platform complements Subaru's core technologies, offering a new driving experience that is beyond comparison.

The new platform dramatically increases rigidity throughout the body and chassis compared to present models, and also incorporates improvements to the suspension system. This results in highly responsive steering that allows drivers to control the vehicle precisely.

Straight line stability is enhanced as quicker and smoother steering response equates to a more stable car; the vehicle becomes easier to correct when encountering crosswinds or rough terrain. The eradication of unnecessary movement also allows Subaru to look ahead to the needs of stability in autonomous vehicles of the future.

The Subaru Global Platform has been designed to enhance and elevate the Subaru driving experience, marking a new and significant chapter in the brand's history and future.