Rumor: No AWD planned for the Subaru FT-86 Variant (216a)

**West** · 03-12-2010, 04:08 PM

An interesting rumor is circulating; 7Tune.com sourced an article in Best Car magazine that reported Subaru has denied development of AWD for its FT-86 variant, codenamed 086a or 216a. Meaning they will be sticking with a RWD format identical to the Toyota FT-86. It was reported development will now focus on the ascetics of the car rather than additional engineering costs needed to make the chassis AWD. Why you ask? Subaru blames the economy, while spending millions in development of its hybrid technology and other concept cars. Subaru, aren’t you the same Fuji Heavy Industries that co developed the FT-86 engine and drive train to begin with? It’s laughable to think Subaru hasn’t already designed the AWD system needed for the 216a.

The Subaru FT-86 variant is still a mythical figure in the auto world, one which no creditable source of information has even confirmed the existence of the car. We do have rumored images of the Toyobaru strolling around Nürburgring and orange county California. However nothing tangible has been reported to the public, and so for now the rumors mean nothing considering AWD or RWD haven’t even been announced. You ask me, AWD will happen.

**Cal** · 03-12-2010, 05:37 PM

Interesting though as it is from 7 tune it shall be taken with a grain of salt. I think AWD will happen as RWD just doesn't fit with Subaru.

**Xaijin** · 03-13-2010, 03:40 AM

Wouldn't be surprising if they're re-reporting the old rumor that was floating around forever.

Subaru would lose a lot of sales if they didnt have AWD on their model. No point in bringing it out if they're half assing it and not have anything to differentiate. The Toyota version will just cannibalize their sales since Toyota has better brand recognition.

**Nemesis** · 03-13-2010, 11:00 PM

After what happened with the whole "no ED2" thing from these guys, I'm not believing anything they say. I think they just speculate and then try to write an article around the speculation using other website's speculation.

**ej25ti** · 03-14-2010, 01:32 AM

Originally Posted by Cwrigh25

I think AWD will happen as RWD just doesn't fit with Subaru.

agreeeeeed

**HyperFX** · 03-14-2010, 08:03 AM

Originally Posted by ej25ti

agreeeeeed

Subaru's lineup consists of all wheel drive. Anything rear wheel drive is good but doesn't fit in with the brand ideas. Adverising with WRC/Rally star celebrities and drift stars would definetely boost sales. Toyota has Tanner Faust and Ken Gushi drifting for them so they already have good adverising strategies.

**Rok Bee** · 03-14-2010, 10:05 AM

Screw 7Tune. AWD/RWD for the Subaru version isn't news. Just because 7Tune reported no AWD, it will be AWD.

**ra23celica** · 03-15-2010, 01:38 AM

Speculation based on speculation does not equal credibility. Subaru Australia has its entire brand recognition and philosophy (sp?) based upon its 'symmetrical' 4WD system. If the FT-86 is a shortened 4WD Imprezza platform (basically minus the length in the front that accommodates the driven front wheels assembly) then it would have to stand that if Subaru want to do a 4WD coupe, then should'nt they just drop a 2 door body on their existing 4WD platform? Or have they done that before now?