Subaru Shows Rendering of Upcoming B9X Sport Utility Crossover

With a target market consisting of the Chrysler Pacifica, Ford Freestyle, Mitsubishi Endeavor, Nissan Murano, and to some

Subaru is considering equipping the new SUV with a naturally aspirated 3.0-litre 'boxer' six-cylinder engine. (Photo: Subaru of America)

extent the expectedly higher priced Volvo XC90, Mercedes-Benz M-Class, entry-level BMW X5 models and upcoming Audi Q7, many are wondering what will end up under the hood of the B9X. According to sources, Subaru is considering equipping the new SUV with a naturally aspirated 3.0-litre 'boxer' six-cylinder engine. Borrowed from the redesigned Outback 3.0R, the powerplant is capable of delivering 250 horsepower and 219 lb-ft of torque, plenty of juice for the midsize sport utility. Insiders suggest that Subaru may also be planning an entry into the performance SUV market by adding a twin-turbocharged variant of the motor. In this state, the engine is said to be good for well over 300 horsepower.

Aside from the fact that the B9X will use Subaru's trademark symmetrical all-wheel drive system, little else can be confirmed about the drivetrain. The road-biased sport utility is predicted to incorporate a monocoque chassis, which will ride on an independent multi-link suspension derived from the midsize Legacy in order to deliver best-in-class road-holding and handling. It is also thought that Subaru is planning to build a flagship sedan based on this chassis architecture to challenge upmarket vehicles such as the Acura RL, Audi A6 and Lexus GS.

The introduction of a true sport utility vehicle is a sign that Subaru is taking its international markets seriously, expanding its borders beyond cult and niche vehicles. Currently, product development of the B9X is nearing completion and the American factory is being primed for production, awaiting the vehicle's world debut at the Detroit Auto Show in early January 2005. It is expected as time draws closer to the official unveiling, that information about the B9X's powertrain and actual photos will be released.