Skip to main content

Subaru sticks to what it knows best with the VIZIV Tourer concept

Subaru has a loyal following, and that’s helped the Japanese automaker steadily increase sales while other automakers have struggled. But Subaru needs to address new technologies, and continue selling more cars to people who aren’t existing fans of the brand. That’s what the Subaru VIZIV Tourer concept is all about.

Recommended Videos

Unveiled at the 2018 Geneva Motor Show, the Tourer is the latest in Subaru’s series of “VIZIV” concepts. It may sound like the name of an alien race from Star Trek, but “VIZIV” is actually short for “Vision for Innovation.” It’s the label Subaru applies to concept cars that showcase new technology, or new styling themes.

The VIZIV Tourer seems to be more about styling than technology. It’s similar in size to the current-generation Outback, so it may offer an idea of what the next generation of that popular model (and its Legacy sibling) may look like. But while the Outback is an eminently practical five-seat wagon, the VIZIV Tourer only seats four. At least no one will have to squeeze into a center rear seat.

While some previous VIZIV concepts have featured hybrid powertrains, the VIZIV Tourer uses a stand-alone boxer engine with no electric assist. The engine sends its power to all four wheels. It’s a typical Subaru setup, and the company didn’t elaborate on what might make this powertrain different from the ones in its current production models. Subaru often slaps hood scoops like the VIZIV Tourer’s on more powerful turbocharged models, but didn’t confirm that this concept sports a turbo.

Subaru said the VIZIV Tourer features advanced driver-assist systems that will launch on production models in 2020, but didn’t offer many details on said systems. The automaker already offers the camera-based EyeSight system on current production models, which includes features like adaptive cruise control and autonomous emergency braking.

The Subaru VIZIV Tourer likely won’t go into production, but some of its design elements may appear on future Subaru production models. In the meantime, Subaru is rolling out its biggest vehicle ever, the Ascent, which comes with seating for up to eight people and 19 cupholders. It’s Subaru attempt to compete against the likes of the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.

Stephen Edelstein
Stephen is a freelance automotive journalist covering all things cars. He likes anything with four wheels, from classic cars…
Cheaper EVs ahead? GM and LG say new battery cells are the key
2025 Chevrolet Equinox EV front quarter view.

General Motors and LG Energy Solution have announced a new phase in their ongoing partnership: developing a new battery cell chemistry that could significantly lower the cost of electric vehicles. The joint effort centers on lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP) battery cells, a variation of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) that’s gaining popularity for being more affordable and less reliant on expensive materials like nickel and cobalt.

This is a big deal because battery costs are still the single largest expense in producing EVs. According to GM and industry experts, LMFP cells could help bring the cost of electric vehicles close to — or even on par with — gas-powered cars. The goal? Making EVs accessible to a broader range of drivers without sacrificing range or performance.

Read more
Waymo recalled 1,200 robotaxis following collisions with road barriers
Waymo Jaguar I-Pace

Waymo’s autonomous-car technology has made great advances over the years to the point where it’s now allowed to offer paid robotaxi rides in select locations in the U.S.

But the development of the technology is ongoing, and the robotaxi rides continue to gather valuable data for Waymo engineers to pore over as they further refine the driverless system to make it as reliable and efficient as possible. Which is why glitches will sometimes occur.

Read more
Apple CarPlay Ultra looks stunning in Aston Martin supercar debut
Apple CarPlay Ultra

Apple CarPlay Ultra is the next generation of the Cupertino, California-based firm's smartphone projection system for your car, and it's available in new vehicles in the US and Canada.

When we say "new cars", your options are very much limited to one brand... Aston Martin. So you'll need deep pockets if you want to experience CarPlay Ultra for yourself.

Read more