Official Thread: Subaru Exiga 7-Seat Wagon

Press Release

Major Features

1. Packaging

The EXIGA has realized ideal proportions that provide the optimal body size for better handling, as well as ample interior space through its carefully calculated measurements of the height, width, length, wheelbase, floor size, and roof design.
Front and rear visibility is maximized by the creative design and positioning of pillars and windows.
The three rows of seats are laid out at three different heights, like gradually elevated theater seating, placing the first and second rows slightly lower than the third to allow all passengers better outside views.
A large panoramic glass roof fully covers area above the second row of seats and enhances the openness of the interior. The glass roof is available as an option on all models except the 2.0i.
Large rear door openings with wide plastic door sills are designed to facilitate ingress and egress, and the rear doors also open nearly 90 degrees for easy access to the third-row seating.
A double-wishbone rear suspension with reduced projection into the interior makes room for comfortable third-row seats and a wide luggage compartment.
The subframe between the rear suspension and the chassis helps to reduce vehicle noise and absorb vibrations from the road.
By using the newly designed resin fuel tank and optimizing the body frame structure, the floor has been made flat to provide spacious legroom for passengers in the third row.
2. Design

[Exterior design]

The EXIGA exterior design expresses the integration of the utility of a seven-seater and elegant styling.
Two distinctively different front grille designs are available. The naturally aspirated models possess style that highlights refinement and simplicity with flowing chrome-plated contours. The design for the turbo model stresses a sporty and muscular impression by adopting a powerful wing-shape embellishment in dark plating on a metal mesh background.
Headlamps are designed to provide depth from the front view. With a blue-tinted lens placed in the middle of the lamp, the design accentuates boldness and presence.
Each of the four EXIGA model types is equipped with distinctive wheels and individually designed spokes.
Eight exterior colors are available.
[Interior design]

Decorative insets with a horizontally flowing pattern from the center panel of the dashboard to the door trim add spaciousness and a quality look to the interior. Rich and refined interior design is further accentuated by the center panel, which combines wood and metal finishes, as well as by the indirect blue LED light installed on the overhead console, center tray and some foot areas.
Ivory tone that accentuates openness and light, and black tone, which highlights both sportiness and elegance, are available as interior colors.
The seats are newly designed to firmly support the occupants and reduce fatigue, even during a long drive, and the seat cushions are made thick to effectively absorb vibration and provide comfort.
The meter module on the instrument panel is distinctively designed with the meter background faces illuminated in blue to make the white dials clearly readable. The Sport Luminescent Meter, outlined with chrome-plated meter rings, is available on the 2.0GT, 2.0i-L, and 2.0i-S.
3. Utility

By removing the headrests, the front seatbacks can be tilted back flat to provide room for occupants to lie down.
The left and right seats of the second row independently slide back and forth in a range of 180 mm. The seatbacks fold down easily with one-hand operation of the walk-in mechanism, allowing easy access to the third row seats.
The third-row seats employ reclining mechanisms for more relaxed travel. The seatbacks fold down flat with easy operation to provide expanded cargo space in the back of the vehicle.
Hooks for hanging bags, retractable hooks and 12-volt power outlet are provided in the cargo area.
Thanks to reduced projection into the interior of the wheel housing and rear suspension, the cargo floor has been made flat. The cargo space offers two tiers. There is a layer under the cargo floor board that offers more space for storing small items. Even tall items like baby strollers can be placed vertically in that space without the need to fold them and lay them on the floor.
Courtesy lamps are mounted inside of all doors for better egress/ingress at night.
Blue lights illuminate the inside of the instrumental panel recesses, the center console, and the foot of the first and second row seats. They are not only useful at night but serve as elegant and premium quality dcor.

4. Powertrain

(1) 2.0-liter DOHC Engine (2.0i, 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S)
The use of a redesigned DOHC cylinder head and the active valve control system (AVCS) promotes excellent environmental performance. Also better fuel economy is realized through adoption of the regular gasoline engine.
With the optimization of the diameter and length of the intake manifold, and the adoption of the equal length/constant pulsation independent exhaust system, the engine’s intake and exhaust performance has been elevated.
Two catalytic convertors have been placed in tandem. The layout enables the convertors to quickly heat up, which facilitates catalytic activation during engine startup and improves on emission reduction efficiency.
By expanding exhaust capacity with the twin mufflers, air flow resistance inside the mufflers is reduced, and excellent engine output characteristics and noise reduction are realized.
The electric control sensor system helps reduce engine load and further improve fuel economy by controlling electric generation according to driving conditions.
(2) 2.0-liter DOHC Turbo Engine (2.0GT)

A lightweight, resin-based intake manifold is used. The inner walls of the manifold are smooth and less resistant to the intake flow, elevating intake efficiency.
The turbo charger was exclusively developed for the EXIGA. Optimization of its A/R and compressor, as well as a redesign of its turbine vane, have distinctively improved low-end torque and made powerful and responsive acceleration possible.
Also adopted is a secondary air system that forces air into the exhaust port to burn out any gasoline remaining in it. The system helps eliminate harmful substances when the powertrain is still cool, and it promotes early activation of a catalytic converter.
Through optimization of the construction of the intercooler, the pressure loss is kept at a minimum to improve cooling efficiency.
The electric control sensor system helps reduce engine load and further improve fuel economy.
5. Drivetrain and Chassis

Lightweight and compact 4-speed AT with the SPORTSHIFT gear selection is standard on all 2.0 liter naturally aspirated models. By optimizing the final gear ratio, as well as through reducing friction among part assemblies, driving performance has been enhanced and fuel economy improved.
5-speed AT with the SPORTSHIFT gear selection is standard on 2.0 liter turbo models. The down-shift blipping control is added to enhance smooth gear change response when shifting down in manual mode.
The SI-Dive (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system on the 2.0GT model offers three different modes of driving for the driver to enjoy: Intelligent; Sport; and Sport Sharp.
The Active Torque Split AWD system is mounted on all naturally aspirated engine models. The turbo model comes with Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) system. Both systems distribute optimal torque to the wheels with the firm grip and traction, providing unrivalled vehicle stability.
Integrating robust body structure with finely tuned chassis elements, all models feature Subaru DC3, which ensures outstanding handling and vehicle stability as well as superb riding comfort.
The vehicle is equipped with a strut-type front suspension, which is made lightweight and resilient. Newly designed cross-members and stabilizers yield excellent steering response.
A double-wishbone rear suspension with optimized suspension geometry settings provides exceptional traction and vehicle stability, as well as riding comfort, even at full occupancy.
All models employ four-wheel ABS disc brakes with EBD (Electric Brake-force Distribution) for superb braking performance. The Brake Assist system and a brake booster with unique tie- rod design appropriately maximize braking control.
Two types of tires, 205/60R16 and 215/50R17, are available. Both are capable of balancing various vehicle elements, including stability, braking, comfort, and mileage.
(SPORTSHIFT is the trademark of Prodrive Ltd.)
6. Body Construction and Safety

The EXIGA uses an advanced form of Subaru’s proprietary Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure. Through streamlined body construction and the extensive use of high-tensile steel, the new model has achieved high body rigidity and light weight.
A cowl stay enhancement is used to connect the front side frame and A pillar, and supportive cross-members have been adopted to further improve steering response and increase vehicle stability.
The EXIGA, with its advanced frame construction, has realized high levels of safety and crash- worthiness through effectively absorbing and dispersing crash impact in frontal, side-, or rear- impact crashes.
By enhancing impact absorption in the front bumper and incorporating structural changes to the hood, the new model addresses safety features for pedestrians and other vehicles in collisions.
The front wiper system features a new uniform-pressure, fin-shaped design that creates downforce to prevent blade lift-off during high-speed driving.
Dual SRS (supplemental restraint system) air bags are standard on all models. SRS side air bags and curtain air bags that protect the third-row occupants are manufacturer’s options.
All pillar trim adopts impact-absorbing structures. To reduce the risk of whiplash injuries in a rear collision, the seatbacks employ new impact-absorbing designs.
A collapsible brake pedal is available on all models to reduce the risk of foot injuries in frontal collisions
7. Environmental Considerations

The EXIGA utilizes interior materials and adhesives that release much smaller amounts of VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Such VOCs as formaldehyde and toluene, which are believed to cause irritation in the nose and throat, have been largely reduced.
Highly recyclable, integrated PP (polypropylene) materials are used in the dashboard, door trim, and other parts. Recycled materials from PET bottles are also used.
The Info-Eco mode prompts the Info-Eco Indicator on the instrumentation to light up when running on low fuel consumption, encouraging mileage-conscious driving. In addition, The Eco Gauge, which promotes driving in an energy-saving manner is available on the 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S, and the 2.0GT.
8. Others

Ventilation for the rear seats is placed on top of the dashboard, effectively circulating air to the third row of seats. Standard on all models, the ventilation system is extremely quiet with greatly reduced operating and airflow noise, yet it efficiently cools the entire cabin.
The air conditioning system on the 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S and 2.0GT models offers a function to allow temperature adjustments independently on the left and right sides of the seats.
The combined audio system of CD player and AM/FM tuner, compatible with MP3 and WMA* formats, and an HDD navigation system with audio capability and a rearview camera (compatible with Subaru G-Book Alpha telematics service) are optional on all models.
*WMA is the registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and other countries.
A keyless entry system with a push-start button is a manufacturer’s option.
Major specifications of EXIGA

  • <LI itxtvisited="1">Overall length: 4,740mm, Overall width: 1,775mm, Overall height: 1,660mm, Wheelbase: 2,750mm <LI itxtvisited="1">2.0i, 2.0i-L, 2.0i-S: <LI itxtvisited="1">2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve, Horizontally-Opposed, 4-cylinder, gasoline engine <LI itxtvisited="1">Max. output (net): 109kW(148PS)/6,000rpm <LI itxtvisited="1">Max. torque (net): 191N.m(19.5kg.m)/3,200rpm <LI itxtvisited="1">SPORTSHIFT E-4AT <LI itxtvisited="1">AWD system: Active Torque Split AWD system <LI itxtvisited="1">215/50R17 Tires with aluminum alloy wheels (2.0i-S) <LI itxtvisited="1">205/60R16 Tires with aluminum alloy wheels (2.0i-L) <LI itxtvisited="1">205/60R16 Tires with full wheel caps (2.0i) <LI itxtvisited="1">2.0GT: <LI itxtvisited="1">2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve, intercooled, turbocharged, Horizontally-Opposed, 4-cylinder, gasoline engine <LI itxtvisited="1">Max. output (net): 165kW(225PS)/5,600rpm <LI itxtvisited="1">Max. torque (net): 326N.m(33.2kg.m)/4,400rpm <LI itxtvisited="1">SPORTSHIFT E-5AT <LI itxtvisited="1">AWD system: Variable Torque Distribution system
  • 215/50R17 Tires with aluminum alloy wheels
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Well, it actually uses a 4AT in the N/A models and a 5AT in the turbo version, so they are still putting the 4AT in new models.

This thing's not exactly beautiful, but I don't really think any Subarus are, so it's not a big deal. I'd hit a turbo model. I hope they're planning on bringing them over here.
 
Looks like a chubby Outback ;). The bigger wheels on the upper trim really help the looks, the one with the smaller wheels make it look weird (kind of a Toyota Camry (dunno))
 
First Drive: 2008 Subaru Exiga GT

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Is This the Future of the American Minivan?

One look at the all-new 2008 Subaru Exiga people mover and you'd be forgiven for thinking that it's just a Subaru Outback stretched to fit seven passengers.

Sure, this conservative wagonlike people pod does borrow heavily from the Forester, Impreza, and Legacy as well as the Outback, its siblings in the Subaru lineup, but the roots of the Exiga go much deeper than this.

In fact, the 2008 Subaru Exiga GT is probably perfect for our troubled times, because it's really related to a previous time when all of us were also reeling from oil shocks.

A Lesson From Lancia


Long before minivan heavyweights like the Chrysler Voyager and Renault Espace arrived on the scene to revolutionize transportation, there was the Lancia Megagamma, penned by Italdesign under the leadership of the legendary Giorgetto Giugiaro. That's right, one of the world's most famous stylists has always been a revolutionary thinker about vehicle packaging, and even 30 years ago he proposed a minivan (then a radical concept) fitted with its very own horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine.

But since Lancia's five-seater prototype never made it out of the concept stage, the 2008 Subaru Exiga GT becomes the first minivan-style vehicle with a horizontally opposed engine, a direct link to Giugiaro's vision.

Giugiaro had the right idea. And now that the Exiga is here, the timing might be right, if not several years late. Subaru should have built this years ago. Hey, with such a huge parts bin to choose from, how could you go wrong?

Function, Not Style


A fused, Japanesespeak hodgepodge of "exciting" and "active," the Exiga is slightly wider, longer and taller than the Outback. The extra 4.5 inches it picks up in height over the Outback ensures that third-row passengers get plenty of headroom. We're 6-foot-2 and we can sit in the back just. "To tell the truth," says Chief Engineer Hiroya Okumo, "We really wanted to slope the D-pillar and rear roof line forward more, giving it more angle and more style. But to do that would have meant sacrificing rear-seat headroom."

Meanwhile a 3-inch-longer wheelbase than the Outback also aided in maximizing rear seat legroom, even though the Exiga is only a half inch longer overall than the Legacy-based wagon.

But Sr. Guigiaro, where were you when they needed your penmanship? Given that the Megagamma and Exiga are so closely linked in essence, surely one phone call wouldn't have gone astray. Having botched several recent exterior designs big time, Subaru decided to play it safe with the Exiga. Its only redeeming styling features are its wing-inspired grille, large sunroof and the very impressive windows of the rear doors that boast superb visibility.

Otherwise the Exiga looks like a half-hearted minivan, a tall wagon from years ago. A marvel of design it is not. It fits in kind of the same slice of the market where the forthcoming Toyota Venza is supposed to reside.


Jigsaw Puzzle

Nevertheless, the 2008 Subaru Exiga is a superbly put-together jigsaw puzzle of the very best technology that Subaru has to offer. For such a small manufacturer, Subaru must have one of the most sophisticated and useful parts bins in the business. So there is virtually no way that Subaru could stuff this one up.

Forward of the B-pillar, the Exiga begins with the front-end section of the Forester's platform, but the rear section is all-new, a necessity given the need to accommodate a third row of seats. The double-wishbone rear suspension has been borrowed from the Impreza, while the springs, dampers and bushings have been specially tuned to reduce vibration and noise levels while improving ride quality.

Also inherited from the Forester is the Exiga's turbocharged 2.0-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, although it gets its own dedicated turbo to deliver beefier bottom-end torque. And what of the Legacy? It has donated its five-speed automatic transmission with SI-Drive plus its brake package, as well as general front-end styling.

The Right Kind of Engine


On paper at least, the Exiga comes across as a formidable seven-seat device able to carry out some pretty serious moves. So while we were left yawning at the sheet metal, one press of the dedicated starter button was enough to get the juices flowing again.

As the 2.0-liter boxer turbo sprang to life with that typical unsure metallic shuffle, we selected "D" mode and headed for the open road. Generating 223 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 240 pound-feet of torque at 4,400 rpm, the Exiga is no slouch.

The Exiga might weigh some 310 pounds more than the 2.5-liter Outback, but thanks to its revised turbo and shorter gearing across all five ratios, this Subaru gets the power down superbly, delivering more than 90 percent of its torque at just 2,000 rpm.

While the power stays on tap up until 5,000 rpm, Subaru tells us that high performance was not a prerequisite for this car. It just kind of came with the package. Just because it's a family car doesn't mean it has to be boring.

Comfortably Heavy

Subaru's all-wheel-drive hardware also makes the Exiga unique among similar people movers. Under everyday driving, Subaru's system sends 45 percent of the torque to the front wheels and 55 percent to the rear wheels, and then only brings the ratio back to 50/50 when front traction is compromised. And you'd have to be doing something silly to manage that because the Exiga's traction levels seem so very high.

As with the Japan-specification Legacy and Impreza, SI-Drive allows you to choose among three modes of torque-management strategy, only this time, a kind of kick-down function has been employed. Even in economical "I" (Intelligent) mode, a quick extension of the right boot will see the explosive "S#" sport sharp mode automatically engaged, allowing you to instantly overtake the car ahead. Then, just lift off on the throttle and "I" mode reengages, taking you back to economical cruising. Up until now, you had to flick the SI-Drive switch manually.

When the road gets interesting, the 2008 Subaru Exiga corners flatter and with less body roll than any other rival. Ride quality and comfort levels are also in the class-leading category. The combination of a very rigid chassis and a low center of gravity play a role here. Meanwhile the Legacy's brake system seems to be more than up to the task of controlling the speed of this relatively heavy, 3,498-pound package, assisted by 17-inch Yokohama Advan tires.

Think Theater, Not Metrolink Bus

While the Exiga's interior trim and quality are satisfactory, there's not much flash to the presentation. The highlight inside the cabin is no doubt the theater-style staggered seating arrangement in which second-row seats are 2.7 inches higher than the front row, with the third row the same again.

Okumo tells us, "The team has worked hard to give this minivan an open-air feel." For evidence, he points out the lengthy sunroof. One-touch switches for the second- and third-row seats allow you to drop the seatbacks, creating a fully flat luggage space big enough for a double bed.

In common with other Subarus, the Exiga's V-shaped center console dominates the dash, with all controls and switches laid out so they're easily reachable. Of note are the revised air-conditioning vents on the dash, which push air directly at the headliner in order to direct sufficient cooling air to the passengers back in the third row.

Cool air is not the only thing that reaches the rear seats. Attention to sound-absorbing materials means that conversations carry throughout the cabin without the need to raise one's voice.

A Good Idea for America?

So far, the 2008 Subaru Exiga GT is only slated for sales in Japan, and one Subaru staffer speculated that it would be too small for the U.S. market. Yet given the fact that the American vehicle market is downsizing in record numbers, there surely seems to be a market for fuel-efficient, multiseat minivans, something a little larger than a Mazda5 yet a little smaller than a Dodge Grand Caravan. Since short-wheelbase versions of conventional minivans like the Caravan no longer exist, there seems to be an opportunity for vehicles like the Exiga.

At a price of about $27,000, the Subaru Exiga represents a superb minivan. It's just a shame that the designers played so safe with its exterior. Too safe, we feel. A letter to Sr. Giugiaro would have done wonders for the Exiga's exterior. As the man who penned the original Lancia Megagamma in 1978, he knows what this whole minivan thing is all about.
 
While the power stays on tap up until 5,000 rpm, Subaru tells us that high performance was not a prerequisite for this car. It just kind of came with the package. Just because it's a family car doesn't mean it has to be boring.

Me likes that...

A Good Idea for America?

So far, the 2008 Subaru Exiga GT is only slated for sales in Japan, and one Subaru staffer speculated that it would be too small for the U.S. market. Yet given the fact that the American vehicle market is downsizing in record numbers, there surely seems to be a market for fuel-efficient, multiseat minivans, something a little larger than a Mazda5 yet a little smaller than a Dodge Grand Caravan. Since short-wheelbase versions of conventional minivans like the Caravan no longer exist, there seems to be an opportunity for vehicles like the Exiga.

Yup, that is the case, but before is classified as a fuel-efficient I want to see some final MPG numbers, that is what is hurting Minivans and SUVs, not how ugly and big they are...
 
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