Subaru Unveils its Stronger and More Stable Global Platform

Subaru Global Platform (Credit: © Subaru)

The Subaru lineup does have a few newer vehicles in the Crosstrek and BRZ, but it still feels very dated relative to the rest of the automotive realm. It’s not to say that the company’s vehicles are bad by any stretch, but their ride just feels just a bit behind the times. The Japanese automaker looks to change this with its recently unveiled Subaru Global Platform that will underpin the brand’s entire future lineup.

As a part of Subaru’s “Prominence 2020” vision, the new Subaru Global Platform is slated to underpin the next generation of Subie vehicles all the way through 2025. This new chassis will be 70 to 100 percent more rigid than current models, will feature a new suspension setup with the rear stabilizer bar being bolted to the body, and will have a lower center of gravity, which will all enhance its straight-line stability. Additionally, these revisions will reduce noise and vibration—the key reason my family chose the RAV4 Hybrid over the Forester—and enhance comfort.

With this new platform will also come enhanced safety. Thanks to its 5 mm (0.2-inch) lower ride height and the improved suspension, the new platform will enhance stability and reduce the chances of a rollover. Also enhancing safety is the increased use of high-tensile steel plates that improve energy absorption by 46 percent. Safety is definitely not an area that Subaru needed improvement, but it is still a welcome improvement for families.

The final, and best, part of this new platform is its ability to scale to nearly any vehicle Subaru offers. Because of its scalability, this platform will also help reduce production costs, which will allow Subaru to pass savings on to the buyers. What’s more, it is also capable of underpinning hybrid and EVs, which are sure to be in higher demand in the coming years.

Subaru plans to start using its new platform in 2016 under the totally redesigned Impreza. This makes me wonder if Subaru will include some electrification in the next-gen Impreza. My gut says it will. Stay tuned for more information.