Aside from its exterior design, the Scrambler is a step forward in the development of greener cars. In typical Subaru fashion it's driven by all four wheels, but instead of the traditional horizontally opposed gasoline engine the B9 is hybrid powered. Dubbed a Sequential Series Hybrid Electric Vehicle (SSHEV), this unique system relies fairly heavily on electric motor power. At speeds of up to 80 km/h, electrical power does the work. Beyond this, the car's naturally aspirated 140 horsepower 2.0 liter boxer-4 does the rest. Though I've seen hybrid 'sports' cars before, it's refreshing to see a dual-powered vehicle with a serious sporting character.
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| The B9 is a Sequential Series Hybrid Electric Vehicle, with an electric engine doing all the work up to 80 km/h. (Photo: Subaru) |
To ensure a smooth and comfortable ride, Subaru has experimented with a pneumatic suspension designed to electronically adjust to the car's ride height and stiffness. Subaru already does a great job with suspensions, so adding this active element should make for amazing handling.
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| Simplicity is the order of the day for the B9 Scrambler concept's interior. (Photo: Subaru) |
Inside, simplicity is the order of the day. What you get is the automotive status quo, more or less, with concept car flair, as opposed to touch-buttons and fancy systems. A tossup between retro and modern is evident in the waterfall-style center console, artistic aluminum curves, and ritzy gauges. If the luminescent glow of the tinted windshield on the double-layered dash and console don't do the trick, the sawn-off look of the steering wheel most certainly will.
As far as I'm concerned, the B9 Scrambler is a just a concept, so don't hold your breath regarding production. Still, it points the utilitarian brand in a more carefree direction, something that would most definitely spice up Subaru's image. We'll just have to wait and see how daring the Japanese automaker is willing to get.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 2-door convertible
- Layout: front engine, AWD
- Gasoline Engine: 140 hp, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC H-4
- Electric Engine: no specifics
- Transmission: 6-spd manual (opt 4-spd auto with manual mode)
- Brakes (front/rear):disc/disc, ABS
- Potential Competitors: Chevrolet Cavalier Convertible, Chrysler Sebring Convertible, Honda S2000, Hyundai Tiburon Spyder, Mazda Miata, Pontiac Solstice, Toyota MR2 (US only), VW New Beetle Convertible/Golf Cabrio
- Web Site: www.subaru.ca
