Report: Convertible Planned For Toyota And Subaru Joint-Sports Car

By Viknesh Vijayenthiran

Viknesh Vijayenthiran

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Vik is an Editor at High Gear Media and contributor for a number of sites within the High Gear Media network. He was a co-founder of Motor Authority... More

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2009 Toyota FT-86 Concept

Toyota and Subaru confirmed as far back as April of last year that the two companies would collaborate on the development of a new affordable sports car.

Up until now, however, all the reports have concerned a coupe model, which Toyota even previewed earlier this month with its FT-86 concept car. According to a new report, Toyota and Subaru may launch a convertible version as well.

Speaking with AutoTelegraaf, a senior official at Toyota revealed that the automaker may launch if a convertible version of its upcoming sports car if demand was strong enough. The official also revealed that no name has been picked for the car, which some reports have suggested may revive the Celica nameplate.

Base models will be strictly rear-wheel drive and have a power output of around 220-horsepower coming from a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter ‘boxer’ engine. Though no official details have been released, it’s expected that an all-wheel drive flagship with 300-horsepower from a turbocharged version of this engine will be available as well. A six-speed manual transmission will be standard, although an automatic is also expected to be available.

While the Toyota version of the sports car, in coupe form, is due to go on sale next year, the convertible, if given the green light, should be launched a year later.

[AutoTelegraaf]