(Tokyo, October 21, 2009) As with most recent auto shows, fuel efficiency technologies were at the top of the list for virtually every automaker at the Tokyo Motor Show. The highlight of the Subaru stand was the new Hybrid Tourer Concept that shows both new styling and technology directions for the automaker.

The Hybrid Tourer continues to use a horizontally opposed engine like most other Subarus but the engine now features direct injection and turbocharging. The gasoline turbocharged direct injection (GTDI) approach is an increasingly common configuration that allows downsizing an engine for reduced mass and fuel consumption while maintaining the performance of a larger engine.  In fact the 2.0-liter GTDI will have even better low speed torque production than current engines.

The bigger innovations come in the rest of the drivetrain. The hybrid drive uses two electric motors to provide additional torque as well as regenerative braking capability. A 10 kW motor is installed between the engine and the transmission. This motor provides regenerative braking as well as power for electrical systems in the car. During acceleration the front motor can also provide electrical assist, reducing the load on the engine.

A second 20 kW motor is mounted at the rear axle and is able to provide low speed electric only drive for the car. Electrical energy is stored in a lithium ion battery pack that uses technology developed for Subaru's Stella electric car.

The transmission behind the front motor is the latest development of Subaru's continuously variable technology. The variable pulley and belt type system has been upgraded to improve its efficiency and increase it's torque capacity for use with the combined turbo DI engine and electric motor.

The car all of this is mounted is a mid-sized car with a hatchback/wagon shape. Typical of many concept vehicles it has massive gull-wing doors which designers like to use to allow visibility of the interior on the show stand. The clean lines and aggressive stance are likely to appear on the next generation of production Subarus although any road going car based on this concept will almost certainly be a more conventional five door.

During the Subaru presentation at the show Ikuo Mori, Fuji Heavy Industries CEO targeted having a production Subaru using this new powertrain available in 2012.