Tokyo show: Subaru scrambles for direction

AT Tokyo this week Subaru has showcased its new styling direction under former Alfa Romeo designer Andreas Zapatinas.

The B9 Scrambler is perhaps its most fascinating concept.

A two-seater roadster, the B9 boasts a more integrated version of the new corporate nose from the B11S concept that’s expected to grace future Subarus.

And behind it lies Subaru’s first hybrid powerplant.

An electric motor operates the B9 up to about 80km/h, after which a 2.0-litre boxer four-cylinder engine takes over. Maximum power is about 101kW.

Variable-height air suspension with automatic self-levelling and ride-height control is also featured.

The other concepts are the electric R1e city car and R2 light car.

The latter points to a possible Honda Jazz rival, with its supercharged four-cylinder engine and seven-speed gearbox.