In keeping enthusiasts on their toes, Toyota’s European division came out with a new release today on its upcoming FT-86 sports coupe. The Japanese automaker confirmed that the production version will go on sale in 2012 with power coming from by Subaru’s new 2.0-liter 4-cylinder boxer engine fitted with Toyota’s D-4S technology. The latter consists of direct injection combined with port injection.
We still don’t get any output numbers although Toyota says the D4-S technology “results in increased horsepower and torque without sacrificing fuel consumption and environmental performance.” Subaru’s latest 2.0-liter horizontally opposed gasoline engine, which is offered on the all-new Impreza, develops 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft (197 Nm) of torque, but in the case of the FT-86, output is expected to increase significantly.
Unlike the Impreza’s 5-speed or CVT gearboxes, the Toyota FT-86 will be offered with either a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission. “The manual will offer quick and precise shifts with a short-throw, while the automatic transmission will feature sporty shifts controlled by steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifts,” said Toyota.
In addition, the RWD coupe will also get a limited-slip differential. Toyota says the front-engined, rear-wheel drive platform will “offer the driver confident stability and maneuverability, while still being quick and nimble into and out of any corner”. Toyota added that the car’s compact dimensions, lightweight design and low center of gravity will ensure “an intrinsic joy of driving”.
Toyota will sell the FT-86 coupe (the final name has not yet been confirmed) under its own badge in Europe and Japan, while North America will get a Scion-badged variant as previewed by the FR-S Concept at last week’s New York Auto Show. Subaru’s version of the car will be technically identical but will feature distinct styling.
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