Nope, this is not a new Subaru Tribeca, but rather the production version of the Japanese-spec 7-seat Exiga. The Exiga is rumored to be very close to the next-generation Outbackâor perhaps better statedâthe all-new 2010 Outback is rumored to be built off the Exiga platform.
Subaru debuted an Exiga concept (middle image) last year at the Tokyo auto show (2007 Tokyo Auto Show Preview: Subaru Exiga ). At that time is was rumored that it would see production in the not too distant future...
If the Exiga-Outback rumor proves to be true, don't expect it to seat seven. It also signifies that the Outback will be distanced a bit more from the Legacy than is currently the case.
I suspect that the new Outback's closest competitor will be the new Toyota Venza. The Vensa will come with a 2.7L four-cylinder engine and the 3.5L V6. The V6 can tow 3500 pounds. It should be an interesting match up, if my speculating here comes true.
The link to the Exiga teaser image is here .
I suspect that the new Outback's closest competitor will be the new Toyota Venza. The Vensa will come with a 2.7L four-cylinder engine and the 3.5L V6. The V6 can tow 3500 pounds. It should be an interesting match up, if my speculating here comes true. The link to the Exiga teaser image is here .
kurtamaxxxguy says:
07:19 AM, 05/12/08
Interesting. Looks like a stretched Forester, minus the D pillar. I wonder if this platform will also be used for future Tribecas?
johnr1 says:
07:20 AM, 05/12/08
According to TOV, Honda is going to do an anti-Venza as well. I think these folks are all aiming at where people are now, which is not necessarily where people will be in a year or two with constantly rising gas prices. We need smaller haulers.
firstwagon says:
07:48 AM, 05/12/08
I like the idea of smaller haulers too but these things need to be lighter. I was looking at a Dodge Journey and with a 4 cyl it still weighs more then my folks 2001 6 cyl Caravan.
If this Subaru weighs 3200 lbs it would be great but I bet it's more like 4000.
flicmod says:
09:10 AM, 05/12/08
johnr1,
Are you referring to the Honda Stream? If so, I could only hope that they bring that thing state-side. It's way more appealing than any of the CUV's out there and it can still seat 7 people.
I also agree with firstwagon. Smaller IS better, but lighter is even better than that. If they can make a 7-seater that is under 3400lbs, it'd be a friggin' miracle. And I would also be very tempted to buy one.
kurtamaxxxguy says:
09:37 AM, 05/12/08
Current Tribecas are aprox. 4150 - 4200 lbs, current Outbacks 3300 - 3650 lbs, '09 Foresters 3200 - 3450 lbs.
If Subaru can pull off keeping the Exiqa as light as current Outbacks while increasing size and passenger hauling capacity, more power to 'em.
And keep in mind it'll probably be longer than either Tribeca or current Outback to have decent passenger space for 7 - 8 people.
moparbad says:
10:26 AM, 05/12/08
So what do people who want to buy a Legacy Wagon buy? Not a Legacy Wagon unless they live in Canada.
And how many people need a car bigger than a Legacy Wagon that would not be served by the Forester or Tribeca?
Bigger, bloated, whale sized cars with poor fuel economy, just what we need.
ateixeira says:
01:12 PM, 05/15/08
Not enough wagons are sold, period. They make more money marketing crossovers and SUVs.
You gotta go after the big fish.
I like wagons, but the fact is, most Americans don't.