According to a recent report by Motor Trend, Subaru and Toyota might be sharing platforms for more than just the upcoming Toyota FT-86 and Subaru coupe equivalent. Subaru might also share its next-generation Subaru Tribeca platform with the upcoming Toyota Kluger.
According to reports, an insider who is in close ties with the plans said the two cars use similar dimensions and offer similar capabilities, which makes the proposition all the more worthy.
The initial problem faced by both companies is coming up with a chassis that will accommodate both a traditional Toyota V6 engine as well as a large, flat Subaru boxer engine – like the 3.6-litre that exists in the current Subaru Tribeca.
Nonetheless, Subaru will lead the project – called 086A – which will be shared with the Toyota Kluger from the A-pillar back. The Subaru variant will use a distinct Subaru floorpan in the engine bay due to the flat engine that has to pass safety tests and be designed and constructed in a specific way.
Reports from the US say the Toyota version will eventually be available as a hybrid, so the shared chassis will have to be very versatile to account for this as well. At the same time, speculation has also arisen suggesting a Subaru Tribeca hybrid might also be in the mix for the future.
There have been a few companies that have joined forces lately, all in the name of cutting development and production costs. Here, it will be no different. Sharing manufacturing and engineering will allow both companies to come up with a competitive package while remaining relatively cost-conscious.
Both versions are said to carry 2014 model year plates and are expected to hit the market some time in 2013.
SOURCE: caradvice
