Shanghai Preview: Subaru XV

Subaru XV Concept – Click above to enlarge

The Shanghai Motor Show is beginning to look like a pretty big deal, with more than enough high-impact reveals to pique our interest. The latest vehicle to be teased in advance of the show is the XV concept, which Subaru says is "a design concept car that defines a new generation of crossover vehicle, blending exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form."

The Japanese automaker says the theme of the crossover concept is "Enjoyment and Peace of mind," which, loosely translated, means that the XV will be practical to own yet fun to drive. Subaru hasn't provided many facts other than what we could have already guessed; that the automaker's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is part of the package. We're guessing a boxer engine isn't far behind.

As you can see from the teaser photo above, the XV will feature four doors, stylized headlamps, big concept car wheels and the shape of a crossover, albeit one with a backlight that's got more rake than a typical utility-first Subaru. Given the short distance from the rear doors to the tailgate, we might also guess that the XV will be on the smaller side; perhaps the size and shape of a puffed-up Impreza, but the company already has the Forester in that role – could there be room for two such models? Either way, we're going to have to wait for the vehicle's official unveiling on April 19 to know for sure. Hit the jump to read over the Fuji Heavy Industries press release.

[Source: Subaru]
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Tokyo, April 11, 2011 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, today announced that it will exhibit the "SUBARU XV CONCEPT" as a world premiere at the 14th Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition (Auto Shanghai 2011) slated for April in Shanghai, China (Press day: April 19 and 20; Open to the public from April 21 through 28).

The SUBARU XV CONCEPT is a design concept car that defines a new generation of crossover vehicle, blending exceptional SUV practicality with a fashionable form. It was specifically designed for customers who are looking for a vehicle offering looks, benefits and a packaging that stretch beyond those from the populated crowd of existing crossover models. At its heart is the core theme of "Enjoyment and Peace of mind", and a promise to deliver, in line with Subaru's new brand statement, "Confidence in Motion". With truly innovative styling, this new generation design concept car combines Subaru's Crossover-like driving excitement with a revolutionary inspiring feel, playful nature, the proven comfort and reliability of the renowned Subaru's Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel Drive) system.

FHI will also showcase the Subaru's unique technical exhibits including the Outback model's cut body and Boxer Engines, and the Chinese rally car. With these displays and throughout the booth design, FHI will showcase Subaru's efforts to integrate enjoyable and reliable driving and peace of mind, based on the Subaru's core technologies of "Symmetrical AWD" and "Horizontally-Opposed Boxer Engine". The press conference is scheduled at the Subaru booth on April 19, at 11.00h.

The special site opens today at 11:00 on the Subaru Global Site
The site will feature information updates relating to the Auto Shanghai including Subaru's press conference.

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