Subaru Rex (A201F)

Back in the 70s, Subaru made a kei car called the Rex and it lasted for three generations until it was replaced by the Vivio. Now, Subaru revived the Rex, and this time, this is not a kei car. It's a compact SUV that is essentially a rebadged version of today's Daihatsu Rocky.

2023 Subaru Rex

2023 Subaru Rex interior

Priced at 1,820,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the new Subaru Rex has nothing in common with the kei car of the same name from a long time ago. It's just a modern-day Daihatsu Rocky with a Subaru badge on it, meaning for those who want a Daihatsu Rocky but their nearest dealership is a Subaru dealership, this could be their chance.

With its RAV4-esque interior, Kia-esque steering wheel, dashboard similar to the Audi A1, dramatic and functional instrumental panel, and spacing for five people, it seems that the Subaru Rex of the Reiwa era really is like the Daihatsu Rocky of the Reiwa era. It works just like the real thing but there's one catch to this Subaru-fied Daihatsu Rocky as some observers figured out.

Unlike the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize equivalents, the new Subaru Rex is offered only in front-wheel-drive and a standard WA-VE 1.2L three-cylinder 12-valve DOHC engine that produces 87PS of power, 113Nm of torque, and when mated to a CVT gearbox with a 7-speed manual mode, it has a 20.7kmpl of fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. Good enough for some trips to a mom-and-pop shop.

Like the two compact SUVs it was based on, the Subaru Rex is packed with Smart Assist consisting of Advanced Safety Assist, Driving Assist, Parking Assist, and Headlamp Assist features. Safer than sorry, they said.

Two variants, one powertrain available. This is what the new Subaru Rex sums up really good and while it lacks something from the Daihatsu Rocky and Toyota Raize equivalents, it feels enough to drive one on a daily basis. So, if you want a Daihatsu Rocky but their nearest dealership is a Subaru dealership the Rex could be your answer.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My FH5 Log: The First Legacy

Having obtained from Forza Horizon 5's Rami's Racing History Dry Season Playlist, the first-generation Subaru Legacy is in the bag and looks like I have a word with the first generation of Subaru's midsize vehicle that was changed from a rally favorite into a commoner's choice, long before the Impreza took its rallying role that forever changed Subaru. Yes, Subaru went rallying before it was cool.

The first generation Subaru Legacy was introduced in Japan in February 1989 and it was available in the following variants; the 220 PS (162 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter turbocharged "RS" with a 5-speed manual transmission only, followed by the "VZ" sedan and wagon and the "TZ" sedan and wagon with the 150 PS (110 kW) DOHC 2.0-liter engine. A smaller 102 PS (75 kW) SOHC 1.8-liter engine was used for the "Vi" sedan and wagon with FWD only, the "Ti" sedan and wagon, the "Mi" and the entry-level "Ei" sedans and wagons. Its involvement in motorsports includes the 1990 Safari Rally that saw Patrik Njiru winning the Group N class, a one-two finish at the first leg of the Acropolis Rally in 1993, and a victory in the eighth round of Rally New Zealand with the late Colin McRae behind the wheel.

Motorsport involvement aside, it's time to give the first-generation Subaru Legacy a quick run against some old-timers in the stadium for the fun of it. Almost for the fun of it. Let's roll the tape.

The Legacy did live up to its legacy. See what I did?

Enjoy your new ride!

Subaru Solterra

The Toyota bZ4x signaled the start of Toyota's electric offense with its concept-inspired looks, minimalist interior, game-changing electric powertrain, and advanced safety features. The main problem is you can't fully own it because you'll have to lease it to drive it for a month. If you want a bZ4x you can fully own, you'll have to make do with its Subaru equivalent, the Solterra.

2023 Subaru Solterra

Starting at 5,995,000 Japanese Yen plus additional costs, the first-ever Subaru Soltera is the company's first electric vehicle, which is a nuisance for purists who are moaning over the death of the WRX STi. Because this is the latest vehicle to spawn from the Toyota-Subaru partnership since the defunct Ractis-Trezia and the recent GR86-BRZ, the Solterra features bits and bobs identical to its lease-only bZ4x twin.

2023 Subaru Solterra

With the name coming out from a Capcom video game, the Solterra's styling is hugely identical to its bZ4x twin except for the front view which differentiates it from its Toyota twin. As expected, both the bZ4x and the Solterra are like the coupe versions of the Toyota RAV4 when you look harder at their designs because of their sloping roofline and high ground clearance but needless to say, they're proof that they're ready to roam the open world like superheroes because SUVs and superhero movies sell big-time.

2023 Subaru Solterra interior

Like the bZ4x, the Solterra's interior is part minimalist and part user-friendly, meaning the dashboard's very easy to use despite being too small for drivers with cataracts to read it. The driver's side is positioned below the dashboard like a Peugeot but because this is bigger than the Peugeot, it almost doesn't feel cramped. The addition of paddle shifters is a bit of a show-off inside because why would you need one in an electric car that has one working gear? No one knows.

While it can accommodate up to five people, the boot space is good for up to 475L for the entry-level ET-SS variant, meaning it's good enough for almost all walks of life, be it for work or for road trips with family or friends as long as nothing's ruining its sweet spot. There's even an electrical outlet to plug in your everyday devices like your laptop or your tiny HD TV you bought from the flea market.

2023 Subaru Solterra

Running on the new e-TNGA platform and a 71.4kWh battery, the Solterra, like the bZ4x, is offered in two different configurations; with the front-wheel-drive variant producing 150kW of power and has a range of 567km while the four-wheel-drive variant, armed with X-MODE which is almost useful for tarmac, gravel, and snow, features two 80kW electric motors that powers both front and rear wheels and they're good for 542km based on WLTC mode standards.

For a car that weighs over two tons, the Solterra behaves like a normal crossover on a daily basis thanks to its Rack and Pinion steering, front struts, rear double wishbones, and ventilated disc brakes. It's not an enjoyable ride as expected but it feels nice to drive and downright as regular as a regular show.

In terms of safety, the Solterra, like the bZ4x, is packed with safety features such as Pre-Crash Safety, Blind Spot Monitor, and Toyota Teammate Advanced Park, among many others.

The Solterra may have the same bits and bobs as the Toyota bZ4x but unlike the Toyota equivalent, you can fully own the Solterra if you really want to. Despite bearing a Capcom-ish name and being another treason to the Subaru heritage like the rear-wheel-drive BRZ, the Solterra is proof that Subaru is ready for the age of the new society.

Available colors: Black, Platinum White Pearl Mica, Dark Blue Mica, Emotional Red 2, Precious Metal, Hyper Mist Gray Pearl, Platinum White Pearl Mica/Black, Dark Blue Mica/Black, Emotional Red 2/Black, Precious Metal/Black, and Hyper Mist Gray Pearl/Black.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

My GT7 Log: A decade of 86 and BRZ

2022 marks the 10th anniversary of the Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ twin coupes and what better way to celebrate a decade of the twin FR coupes that rocked the street scene than discovering the evolution of the ToyoBaru twins.

Okay, so where should we start? Oh yes! The beginning, of course!

The Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ made their world premiere at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show and then went on sale in the Spring of 2012 with the BRZ first in late March 2012 and then the 86 a month later. Under the hood, the 86 and the BRZ are powered by a 2.0L boxer-four D-4S engine that produces 200PS of power and 205Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed AT or a 6-speed MT. Thanks to this engine powerplant, both of these coupes have a low center of gravity and because of that, they have accessible handling, the hallmark of the 86 and the BRZ, and because being JDM machines, speedo boys expressed endless creativities with these machines courtesy of aftermarket tuning potential.

In 2016, both the 86 and the BRZ received a minor change featuring a revised front, new interior, and a slight upgrade on its 2.0L flat-four engine, producing 7PS more than the pre-facelifted models. Not only that, both of these models now come with improved springs and dampers as well as increased spot welding points on the rear pillars, allowing for better steering response and ride comfort and with the optional Sachs dampers, the handling is slightly improved.

Fast forward to the year 2021, the Toyota GR 86 and the second-generation Subaru BRZ have been unveiled. Running on the improved version of its signature platform, the new models have improved the suspension and chassis for improved cornering abilities as well as better traction. Under the hood, the flat-4 engine that contributed to the car's low center of gravity had its displacement up from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in an increased power output of 235PS and 250Nm of torque while mated to either a 6-speed manual or auto.

And there you have it, a decade of 86 and BRZ well summed up for your nostalgic pleasure. Although I had a blast getting to know the evolution of the ToyoBaru twin coupes, there's something missing...Of course! Let's compare them and find out which of these twins is the alpha. This will be the showdown between Team 86 and Team BRZ. It's going to be out of this world.

Using the Streets of Willow Springs segment from California's Willow Springs International Raceway as the venue for the ideal turf war, it's time to find out which side is the best. Are you with Team 86 or Team BRZ? Let's roll the tape.

With two sides done their laps in the Streets of Willow Springs, here are the results;

86 - 1:31.562

BRZ - 1:31.874

86 F/L - 1:31.314

BRZ F/L STi Sport - 1:30.160

GR86 - 1:26.963

BRZ II - 1:27.360

It's a 2:1 split decision in favor of Team 86, meaning that despite being the same machines, it's no wonder why most speedo boys love to be with Team 86 rather than Team BRZ. What a shocker as such but anyway...

The 86 and BRZ are fruits of the wonderful collaboration between Toyota and Subaru and with their latest versions fit to take on the bold challenges of the Reiwa era, these two sides are gearing their brave faces on as they're ready to fight to the death in this ever-changing unstable world we live in. These cars may not live forever in the age of electrification but the 86 and the BRZ have created an impressive legacy that will be remembered forever for many generations to come.

Whether you're Team 86 or Team BRZ, in this unstable world, these machines are clear reminders that you, speedo boys, must fulfill their destinies until the true endgame comes sooner than later.

As always, enjoy these new machines in GT7!

Subaru WRX S4 (VBH)

The VA-spec Subaru WRX is a decent sports sedan that balances its sensible behavior with the rally-honed performance that you would expect for a Subaru. Although its main rival, the Volvo S60, will eat it alive because of the performance figures between them, it's a no-contest between them because the VB-spec Subaru WRX S4 has arrived and it promises to be as good as the Swedish competitor it idolizes.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

Starting at 4,004,000 Japanese Yen (less than $41,000) plus additional costs, the all-new Subaru WRX S4 is proof that the sedan race is still alive and kicking despite being devoured by the rise of crossovers. Although priced cheaper than the Volvo S60, is the all-new WRX S4 the bargain super-saloon of the season? Let's find out.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

Let's begin with the design, page one of this deep-dive with the new model. Like the previous model, the WRX S4 is essentially the sedan version of the second-generation Levorg, the sports wagon that won last year's Japan Car of the Year. Although it bears similar looks as its Levorg counterpart, the new WRX S4 differentiates it with its striking sedan looks and some black cladding, which is odd for a sedan like this, although there's nothing new about adding claddings on a saloon because history tells us only a few saloons have practiced it. Still, the new model is strikingly attractive compared to the previous WRX S4, and above all, it's dressed to kill.

2022 Subaru WRX S4 interior

Just like the Levorg it was based on, the new WRX S4's interior is festooned with the Tesla-esque dashboard that spells misery for speedo boys behind the wheel as well as the instrumental panel that works just like the Audi Virtual Cockpit. Yep, that's why it's called the WRX S4. What a coincidence, and that doesn't stop here because, in the more expensive STi Sport variants, you will be greeted with the available STi RECARO front seats that snug you tight like a gaming seat. Cozy.

Despite being a Levorg with a trunk, the new WRX S4 is surprisingly comfortable and roomier at the back compared to the previous model, giving you less to complain about, except the evidence of last night's debauchery clattering around in the cockpit.

2022 Subaru WRX S4

The new model's flat-four boxer turbo engine's size has been increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L so you might expect it packs more power compared to the old one but sadly, no. It produces 275PS and 375Nm of torque, which is 25PS less powerful and 25Nm less in torque than the previous model. Less fuel-efficient compared to the old one as well because of its 10.8km/L fuel economy based on WLTC Mode standards. Boo.

Disappointing the performance figures are, the new WRX S4 features a different kind of gearbox built specifically for this car. Called Subaru Performance Transmission, a sport-tuned CVT with an 8-speed manual mode that delivers 30% faster upshifts and 50% faster downshifts compared to the previous WRX S4's Sport Lineartronic CVT. Sounds cheesy but it feels slightly more engaging. Of course, a Volvo S60 will eat it alive at the Shutokou but the jokes on the Swede because Volvos of today are now capped at 180kph, don't you know?

Of course, the new WRX S4 is almost as good and civilized just like the Volvo S60, but out in the open, the Subaru magic comes alive with its Subaru Global Platform, a first for the WRX, reworked suspension setup, and Subaru's legendary Symmetrical AWD, not to mention SI-DRIVE that alters its behavior at the turn of the dial. Mild but menacing, that's what the new model's dynamics best summed up.

After having fun with its mild but menacing dynamics that made the new WRX S4 an enjoyable sports sedan for all levels of driving, it boasts high levels of safety thanks to its EyeSight driver assist with Lane Centering Function and Speed Sign Recognition, among many others. Coupled with the most advanced Driver Monitoring System and Vision Assist technology, the new WRX S4 is about as safe to drive as the Swedes but with the drama involved.

Despite its performance, which feels downgraded compared to the old model, the new WRX S4 feels good to drive from the streets of Tokyo to the corners of Mt. Haruna with its reworked dynamics, striking looks, interior, the questionable Subaru Performance Transmission, and the added tech. Like it or not, the new model is sure enough to get you hooked as your next everyday car. It almost is the bargain of the season because despite being outrun by the Volvo S60, they're on equal footing because while the S60 is focused on being safe, the new WRX S4 is focused on being safe and fun in every way and now you know the rest of the story.

Available colors: Ceramic White, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Ignition Red, Solar Orange Pearl, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and WR Blue Mica.

Photo: Subaru

Toyota GR 86 (ZN8)

Almost a decade ago, Toyota roars back to the sports car business with the 86, a rear-wheel-drive compact sports car built in collaboration with Subaru. It became one of the most popular Japanese sports cars ever made and it landed a role as the hero car from MF GHOST, a comic book made by the same man who did Initial D. It really is the spiritual successor to the legendary Sprinter Trueno AE86. It's the Reiwa era and Toyota's ready for the new normal with an all-new model now called GR 86.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Priced at 2,799,000 Japanese Yen (around $28,000), the new Toyota GR 86 proudly carries over where its predecessor left off while still delivering the same accessible dynamics coveted by speedo boys worldwide. Although it works just like its Subaru twin, the BRZ, it's cheaper to own than its Subaru equivalent, which is surprisingly flinching for speedo boys looking for a reasonably fast sportscar on a budget.

2022 Toyota GR 86

Like the new Subaru BRZ, the Toyota GR 86 features a dramatic exterior design that is sharper-looking than the previous model it replaces, giving speedo boys plenty of reasons to get tempted to drive one and intoxicated by the accessible dynamics this street hero possesses.

2022 Toyota GR 86 interior

The GR 86's new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired, just as what speedo boys wanted for a sportscar like this. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed challenging to squeeze into, and ample boot space for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Whatever floats their boats, the GR 86 is all about getting ready for another weekend at the car meet.

2022 Toyota GR 86

The GR 86 utilizes the improved version of its signature platform used by its predecessor. While the new model is similarly sized compared to the old one, the sport-tuned suspension and chassis have been updated to make it more enjoyable to drive than the previous model. On the road and on the track, the new GR 86 is all about stretching itself to entertain its drivers with its rewarding dynamics which are deemed fun for all levels. Great one, Toyota.

Under the hood, the flat-four boxer engine got its size increased from the previous model's 2.0L to 2.4L, resulting in a slightly improved power output of 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Just like the new BRZ, automatic variants of the GR 86 feature Driver Assist Technology, consisting of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one, of course.

The arrival of the Toyota GR 86 shows that sports cars can still shine in the new normal. With its new design, interior, performance, and dynamics, the reborn Hachiroku promises to be a must-have for speedo boys who are driving like there's no tomorrow because, pretty soon, there won't be. Thanks to Japan's imminent move to eradicate ICE-powered cars, the Hachiroku of the Reiwa era would be the last one speedo boys will ever experience.

Photo: Toyota Motor Corporation

Subaru Legacy Outback BT5

The all-new Subaru Legacy Outback sport utility wagon has arrived and it promises to be the safest and proficient Outback ever made while being suited for the new normal.

2022 Subaru Legacy Outback

Priced at 4,147,000 Japanese Yen (around $42,000) plus additional costs, the all-new Subaru Legacy Outback is prepped to take on the new normal with its new platform, interior, design, dynamics, and tech while retaining the legendary Legacy spirit inherited from its predecessors. It's odd why the Outback is the only model offered in the seventh-generation Legacy but whatever the reason, this is what the new normal feels like.

2022 Subaru Legacy Outback

2022 Subaru Legacy Outback

Beginning with the design, the Legacy Outback BT5 is almost identical to its predecessor not to mention the fact that it's bigger as well despite the shorter tread. It's 50mm longer, 35mm wider, and has 13mm more ground clearance compared to the previous model. Although the sizing is worth the struggle on Japanese roads, it's a wise call for Subaru not to get rid of it and instead regenerate it for its new outing because if that happened, the Subarists of Japan would be agitated.

2022 Subaru Legacy Outback interior

What about the interior? The new Outback features numerous tech-savvy features inside just like from the second-generation Levorg including the towering 11.6-inch touchscreen that works like Tesla's but with the added buttons for the radio and touch panels on the climate control to make it handy for all. There's also the new 12.3-inch instrumental panel that works just like the Audi virtual cockpit as well and the new harman/kardon sound system for a premium sound feel like no other.

On the comfort side, the new model is shorter than the previous model but it's slightly bigger and it's still roomier compared to its predecessor. It still fits up to five people and the rear seats can be folded down for your luggage needs. For added convenience, the new Legacy Outback comes with the Hands-Free Power Gate that allows the rear door to be opened automatically by waving in front of the Subaru emblem. Nothing says wiser than the added conveniences this new model offers not to mention the waterproof seats on the X-BREAK variant made of polyurethane instead of fabric and the new pop-up tonneau cover on the back.

2022 Subaru Legacy Outback

Under the hood, the predecessor's 2.5L boxer-four petrol engine has been thrown away and in its place, the new Outback is powered by the CB18 1.8L DOHC DIT engine first seen on the second-generation Levorg. It produces two more PS than the previous model and 65Nm more torque as well. Mated to a LINEARTRONIC CVT with 8-speed manual mode, the fuel economy is a modest 13kmpl based on WLTC Mode standards.

Running on the Subaru Global Platform, the new Outback is now stiffer than the previous model, making it capable of passing through rigorous crash tests. Because of that, it is bulkier than the previous model, making it less enjoyable to drive on the bends of Nikko even while setting the SI-DRIVE mode to S# Mode, the sportiest setting of the three, but while enjoying another day of dirt in Hokkaido, the Outback enjoys roughhousing thanks to Subaru's legendary Symmetrical AWD and the X-MODE feature. 

In the cheaper X-BREAK variant, you have two modes at your dispersal; one that can tackle snow and dirt while the other that can tackle deep snow and mud. Either way, they're both handy during your lunchtime with Hannibal.

Because safety is part of the new normal, the new Outback features Eyesight X, which features a wide array of highly advanced safety features such as traffic jam assist, active speed control, and active lane change assist, in addition to its pre-crash brake, unintentional acceleration suppression, active cruise control, and lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive high beam, and driver monitoring system.

In addition, the new Outback comes with a bizarre driver monitoring system that detects drivers' heads in case of distractions and drowsiness as well as SRS Seat Cushion airbags, the frontal pedestrian airbag, a first for the Outback, the new Post Collision Brake Control, and the new Rear View Camera Washer.

So, what can you say about the new Legacy Outback? Although it's bulkier and less enjoyable to drive than the previous model, not to mention the widebody size that is a risky struggle on Japanese roads, it's still a capable crossover with numerous conveniences fit for the new normal. Either way, it's here to stay.

Available colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Crimson Red Pearl, Brilliant Bronze Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Sapphire Blue Pearl, Storm Gray Metallic, and Autumn Green Metallic.

Photo: Subaru

Subaru BRZ ZD8

A decade ago, Subaru and Toyota collaborated on a new rear-wheel-drive sportscar project that gave birth to the two icons; the Toyota 86 and the Subaru BRZ. The Toyota side is a spiritual rebirth of the iconic AE86 Sprinter Trueno and Corolla Levin while the Subaru side is, let's just say, a sacrilege to Subaru's image as an AWD specialist and treason to Subaru's heritage if you may. It's the Reiwa era and the era of a new normal we live in and as Toyota and Subaru unveiled their new versions, the second-generation BRZ goes first.

2022 Subaru BRZ

With prices start at 3,080,000 Japanese yen plus additional costs, the second-generation Subaru BRZ joins the list of Reiwa era Japanese sportscars spearheaded by Toyota's GR Supra and it's proof that in the midst of the new normal, Japan still makes sports cars speedo boys will enjoy.

2022 Subaru BRZ

Although the new model is similarly sized compared to its predecessor, thanks to the fact that it uses an improved version of its signature platform instead of the SGP that today's Subarus don, the new styling really means business for the second-generation BRZ. From its dramatic new front design to its sharp new rear angle, every way you look at the new model is quintessential and you'll have plenty of reasons to swap your old BRZ for the new one. Tempted? Well, you should be.

2022 Subaru BRZ interior

The new interior is all about being driver-focused and race-inspired especially when you can't get enough toying with the switches in the dashboard as well as its dramatic speedo that is going to be the target of speedo boys who are busy doing speedo boy stuff while driving at the Wangan expressway. Of course, like the previous model, it's got two rear seats which are deemed to be difficult to squeeze into, and some room in the back for some grocery trips to resupply your man cave. Either way, the new interior is one of the many reasons you can't get enough with the new BRZ.

2022 Subaru BRZ

A new generation calls for a new engine and for the second-generation BRZ, the size of its BOXER D-4S engine has been increased from 2.0L to 2.4L. As a result, the power output is now bumped at a dramatic 235PS of power and 250Nm of torque. It has a WLTC-calculated fuel economy of 12km/L for the 6-speed manual variant and 11.8km/L for the 6-speed AT variant.

Apart from the added power from its new FA24 engine, the new BRZ features an upgraded version of its signature platform which makes it more huggable on the road and more rigid compared to the previous model. They have improved the suspension and chassis to make it more fun to drive than the previous model and it's got better traction as well.

The automatic variants of the second-generation BRZ feature Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which consists of pre-collision safety tech, emergency rescue support, and secondary collision avoidance support. Manual variants don't get one but who cares?

The second-generation Subaru BRZ is ready to pick up where the previous BRZ left off and thanks to its improved dynamics, new styling, new interior, and the FA24 engine, this is going to be the BRZ speedo boys will never forget and with the imminent doom to the internal combustion engine, the BRZ of the Reiwa era is one on the bucket list and speedo boys are ready to spend their hard-earned cash buying this one.

Available colors: Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Gray Metallic, Crystal Black Silica, Ignition Red, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and WR Blue Pearl.

Photo: Subaru

Subaru Levorg (VN5)

The Impreza-sized station wagon from Subaru, the Levorg, is now on its second-generation, and with performance is not in its agenda, sadly, the new Levorg promises to be the most technologically-advanced Subaru ever made because of its all-new Eyesight X and Subaru Starlink services. Let's discover more about the second-generation Levorg.

2021 Subaru Levorg

Starting at 3,102,000 Japanese Yen (around $31,020), the all-new Levorg is Subaru's tour de force that aims squarely at the Volvo V60 because of the most advanced safety features Subaru ever made in the hopes to emulate this new model to its more expensive but powerful Swedish opponent.

2021 Subaru Levorg

2021 Subaru Levorg

Starting first with the design and thankfully, the bits and bobs from the prototype as seen in last year's Tokyo Motor Show retains. Compared to the previous model, the new Levorg's design looks clean, sharp, and athletic. Looking from every angle, the new look really spells smart and sexy and its own pace. Even the hood scoop adds a nice touch to it because it's a Subaru and every Subarist in the world knows that.

2021 Subaru Levorg interior

Step inside the interior and you will be greeted with a Tesla-esque dashboard which scares most speedo boys because of its minimalism. This is the first time a Subaru in a Japanese market spawned a super tall screen and due to a litany of horror stories about tall screens occupying dashboards in most expensive cars, some might fear that the new model embraces minimalism. Don't worry, though, despite the tall screen, there are buttons around for ease of use.

The driver's side is like science fiction came true but on the passenger side, it's surprisingly comfortable to live with. The rear space is surprisingly more generous than the previous model and the boot space is surprisingly adaptable. There's even a secret compartment in case you want more. With such utility, the new Levorg is ready to take on various daily routines, be it for work or for leisure.

2021 Subaru Levorg

Now we get to the very serious topic of this new Levorg and it's about performance. Because it now runs on a Subaru Global Platform, coupled with some other suspension and chassis updates, the new Levorg is now livelier to drive than the previous model, and when in the STi Sport variant with its sport-tuned suspension, it's slightly better to handle with almost none of the drama involved. Toying around with its SI-Drive system is the ideal way of getting to know about the new Levorg in all corners of the earth but the STi Sport variant features more modes than the normal Levorg had, meaning you have everything at your disposal to deliver its first impression on the road.

Speaking of drama, the new Levorg, at launch, is offered only with a brand new CB18 1.8L DOHC DIT engine that produces 177PS of power and 300Nm of torque. Mated with the only gearbox offered on the new Levorg, a Lineartronic CVT, it promises a combined 13.7kmpl based on WLTP standards. Yes, this powertrain really is dramatic and when compared to the Volvo V60, the Swedish will eat it alive on the straights but who cares? They can go up to 180kph, you know, but enough about that because it's time to move on to safety.

The new Levorg is the first Subaru to be applied with the first-ever Eyesight X, which features a wide array of highly advanced safety features such as traffic jam assist, active speed control, and active lane change assist, in addition to its pre-crash brake, unintentional acceleration suppression, active cruise control, and lane departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive high beam, and driver monitoring system. In addition to the Eyesight X, the new Levorg is the first to have Subaru Starlink which allows the driver to access numerous services such as SOS Emergency Assistance, Enhanced Roadside Assistance, Automatic Collision Notification, Maintenance Notifications, Monthly Vehicle Health Report and Diagnostic Alerts, Stolen Vehicle Recovery Service, Vehicle Security Alarm Notification, Remote Lock/Unlock, Remote Horn and Lights and Remote Vehicle Locator.

So, what can I say about the new Levorg? Well, it's not as fast or as powerful as a Volvo but with the sharp new design, new interior, improved handling, and the most advanced tech offered in a Subaru, this is a fresh start and it's starting to gain some attention in the midst of the new normal.

Photo: Subaru Corporation

Daihatsu new Tanto/Subaru new Chiffon (LA650/660S)

The Daihatsu Tanto, known for its signature pillarless Raku-Raku Door on the passenger side, is now on its fourth generation (second generation if you're a Subarist who called this kei minivan the Chiffon), and this new version marks the turning point for Daihatsu because this is the first to don the new Daihatsu New Global Architecture platform, which is just like Toyota's TNGA, only compact. More for that later on but right now, let's look at the new model which starts below the 1.3 million yen mark.

2020 Daihatsu Tanto

2020 Subaru Chiffon

2020 Subaru Chiffon

Like previous generations, the Tanto (or Chiffon for Subarists) is offered in two distinct versions such as the normal Tanto with looks reminiscent of the first-generation Tanto and the Tanto Custom, which is like the little brother of the 3-box hatchback brothers (namely Toyota's Roomy and Tank, Daihatsu's Thor, and Subaru's Justy of course). Either way, these kei minivans stay true to their kei car sizing fit enough for the Japanese suburbs and city streets.

2020 Daihatsu Tanto interior

2020 Subaru Chiffon interior

As a tall kei minivan, the new Tanto's interior is still as tall as the predecessors, of course, meaning there's a lot of room for the six-footers in the club and because it retains the signature pillarless door on the passenger side, it still feels easy to get out of like a glove. As an all-purpose kei car, the new Tanto (Chiffon) has various seating arrangements that will suit their needs, be it for personal or for business use. Whichever you want to do with it, you should be thankful that the new Tanto (Chiffon) does all the stuff like a normal van do in its everyday life.

Now, let's talk more about the Daihatsu New Global Architecture that the new model has and like the TNGA from Toyota, the DNGA platform is a flexible platform that accommodates the new model's design, powertrain, and dynamics. Not only the new platform made it more lively to drive with, but it also made it more fuel efficient than the previous model. With the DNGA platform, 660cc KF-series engine, and a CVT gearbox, it promises a combined fuel economy of 21.2km/L by WLTC mode standards, the same as today's Mitsubishi eK Wagon of course.

In the importance of safety, the new model features an improved Smart Assist with numerous preventive safety features applied all over the kei minivan, be it standard or optional, that will give owners much-needed confidence to drive in a relaxing manner from the beginning to the end of the day. Nothing delightful about the tech but it sure is worth an obvious feat.

The new Tanto (Chiffon) truly is a turning point for a company that makes small cars that can rival Suzuki's Spacia range because of its new platform, new tech, new design, and new interior, while retaining the signature pillarless door on the passenger side that makes the Tanto a Tanto. There's so much to talk about the new model but it's best to leave it for now.

Photo: Daihatsu/Subaru

GT SPORT: The modern Heisei JDMs

Earlier, after a little game at Tsukuba on GT SPORT, I crowned the R34 Skyline GT-R as the best Japanese sportscar to emerge from the early years of the Heisei era. Continuing on our farewell tribute to the Heisei era on GT SPORT, it's time to bring in the modern Heisei JDMs. Before you ask, no, you won't see the GR Supra in here because that one hasn't been on sale yet.







As the Heisei era tips to the climax here's how the Japanese car industry progressed so far. For Mazda, the only sporty offering in the SKYACTIV era is basically the ND Roadster, which celebrates its 30th birthday this year, the Lancer Evolution X is the last Lancer Evolution ever made and its reign ended in 2015 with a Final Edition, today's WRX STi is all about conquering the Nurburgring rather than rallying, Toyota wowed us with the 86 (which is made in cooperation with Subaru), Lexus continues to upset the luxury car market with their flagship LC grand tourer, and today's NSX is a hybrid supercar. Out of the modern Heisei JDMs, the R35 Nissan GT-R reigns supreme or is it?



To find out, I'm using the Tsukuba Circuit again to see which one of the modern Heisei-era Japanese sportscars is the top star and I got a little something for it later on so ladies and gentlemen, let's get this show on the track.



After the time of their lives at Tsukuba, here come the results...

Roadster S (ND) '15 - 1:14.018
86 GT '15 - 1:11.302
WRX STi Type S '14 - 1:07.100
Lancer Evo.Final '15 - 1:06.282
LC500 '17 - 1:06.129
NSX '17 - 1:03.377
GT-R '17 - 1:01.974



Here you are, ladies and gentlemen. The R35 is, without a shadow of a doubt, the best modern Heisei-era Japanese sportscar ever made but the question now is, is it really the best Heisei-era car? Check back for the big finish of this Heisei-ending tribute.