Subaru Preparing to Launch New Seven-Seat Touring Wagon

Subaru is getting ready to launch a brand new six- or seven-seat crossover

vehicle. The vehicle is basically the road-going version of the Exiga concept which debuted at last year's Tokyo Auto Show.

Dubbed "Touring Wagon", the production car would slot into Subaru's range in between the five-seat Forester and the Tribeca, the latter of which is offered in five- and seven-seat configurations. Based on teaser images, it appears that the shape and profile is quite similar to the outgoing Forester, with a tall, upright passenger cabin that features stadium seating for better outward visibility, combined with an overall low ride height for easy entry and exit. However, what made the Exiga concept different is its Legacy-like facial features and styling details.

Underneath its skin, the production version is expected to have a bit in

common with the Legacy, including its powertrains. Expect to see a variety of horizontally-opposed four-cylinder engines with and without turbochargers, as well as the brand's famous symmetrical all wheel drive system as standard equipment. The concept vehicle was equipped with a 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed four-cylinder turbo and a five-speed automatic transmission.

It isn't known yet whether or not Subaru has any plans of offering this vehicle in North America, but it certainly makes sense as a more fuel efficient alternative to the six-cylinder-only Tribeca, or an alternative for those who want a more practical version of the Forester. According to those in the know, the touring wagon could be launched in its home market of Japan as early as next month.