Following the rumoured surprise debut at the Tokyo Motor Show of the second generation Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86, both automakers have announced an update to the operational and technical alliance that birthed the original car, among making other inroads.
Sandwiched in between cordial words that describe ‘synergy’ and ‘innovation’ was the official confirmation that the two brands will jointly develop an all-new version of the popular Toyobaru. It’s easy to imagine that they’ve already been at work on it for quite some time, making its cameo next month in the Japanese capital even more plausible.
Toyota and Subaru both will continue to swap technologies, from which new co-created models are sure to sprout. For example, electrified Subaru XV, called the Crosstrek Hybrid in other markets, will continue to use knowhow from Toyota’s sizeable repository.
The pair have also stated that collaboratively made all-wheel drive models are also part of this updated roadmap, including sporty models that “offer the ultimate sensation in all-wheel driving” as well as more practical ones.
Additionally, a shared vehicle platform specific to fully electric applications will also be in the works. Indeed, the partnership will also encompass the development of a new battery electric vehicle together.
It all sounds rather expansive, even ambitious, and to further cement Toyota’s commitment to this widened partnership with Subaru, the automaker has increased its investment by acquiring a further 80 billion Yen in new shares, resulting in a total 20 percent of voting rights in Subaru (up from 16.83 percent).
There isn’t much else to expand on yet that isn’t pure conjecture, but there’s sure to be plenty of excitement surrounding the Tokyo Motor Show considering the timeliness of this announcement confirming that an all-new 86 and BRZ is indeed on the way.
For more Subaru and Toyota cars, check out our Showroom.
