Subaru's B5-TPH concept is a sleek two-door wagon powered by the company's Turbo Parallel Hybrid powertrain, which includes a lithium-ion battery pack and an electric motor/generator that is sandwiched between a turbocharged, horizontally opposed engine and an automatic transmission. The TPH system is scheduled to begin testing in Japanese-market vehicles in 2007.
The concept's front fascia immediately calls to mind Subaru's recently introduced B9 Tribeca sport utility vehicle. In this application, the grille and headlamps are tinted blue. Don't be surprised if this grille design shows up on the company's Legacy and Outback models.
Cargo-area access is facilitated by a rear liftgate hinged in the roof just aft of the side doors. The design is reminiscent of the Dodge Magnum's, and the liftgate incorporates the rear side windows, which makes the cargo area readily accessible from either the side or back of the vehicle. |
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