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Subaru Exiga
Subaru Exiga
from Wikipedia
Subaru Exiga (YA)
2012 Subaru Liberty Exiga (YA9, Australia)
Overview
ManufacturerSubaru
Also calledSubaru Liberty Exiga (Australia)
ProductionJune 2008 – February 2018
AssemblyJapan: Ōta, Gunma
Body and chassis
ClassMid-size MPV
Body style5-door wagon
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel-drive
Front-engine, four-wheel-drive (turbo)
RelatedSubaru Legacy
Subaru Impreza
Powertrain
Engine2.0 L H4 146 hp (109 kW)
2.0 L turbo 221 hp (165 kW) H4 2.5 L H4
Transmission4-speed automatic
5-speed automatic
Lineartronic CVT
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,750 mm (108.3 in)
Length4,740 mm (186.6 in)
Width1,775 mm (69.9 in)
Height1,660 mm (65.4 in)
Chronology
PredecessorSubaru Traviq (Japan)
Subaru Tribeca (Southeast Asia and Australia)

The Subaru Exiga (Japanese: スバル・エクシーガ, Subaru Ekushīga) is a mid-size MPV that debuted as a concept car during the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. According to the Japanese Subaru press introduction materials, the name "Exiga" is a neologism combination of the words "exciting" and "active". The Exiga name itself was taken from two unrelated Subaru concept cars: the Alpha Exiga from 1995 and the Exiga from 1997.

The vehicle has a supersize panoramic glass roof and theater-style seating, with rear passengers sitting a little higher than those in front. Seats in the concept vehicle were upholstered in leather and trimmed in pearl white and blue. The rear seatbacks incorporate fold-down tray tables, similar to those on airplanes.

The instrument panel in the concept vehicle offered displays from eight monitors, providing excellent visibility around the vehicle, and also housed a clear blue multi-display zone. There continues to be indirect lighting in the side doors and ceiling in the production vehicle, providing soft ambient light at night.

The engine is a 1994 cc turbocharged H4 based on the Subaru Impreza WRX coupled to Subaru's 5EAT automatic transmission used in the Subaru Legacy and Subaru Tribeca.

Subaru introduced the seven-seat wagon in the Japanese market 18 June 2008.[1][2]

Subaru never sold the Exiga in North America, having opted to sell the similarly-sized Subaru Tribeca three-row crossover instead. However, the Exiga and Tribeca were sold side-by-side in both Australia and Singapore. With Subaru having ceased production of the Tribeca in 2014, it was expected that the company might bring the Exiga to North America as a replacement and entry into the seven-passenger crossover SUV market, but Subaru chose not to because of the Exiga's size and its intent to produce a Tribeca successor in the United States, called the Ascent.[3]

Subaru Exiga concept

Production version

[edit]

The Exiga was released for sale in Japan on 17 June 2008, and was built to replace the Subaru Traviq, which could also hold seven passengers in the Japanese market. It was initially sold only in Japan but Australia is the first export market outside Japan to receive it, where it is badged Subaru Liberty Exiga.[4] Due to the exterior dimensions of the Exiga not being in compliance with Japanese Government regulations, it is not classified as a "compact MPV".

The Exiga is available in four trim options: the 2.0i is the entry level version, followed by the 2.0i-L, the 2.0i-S, all with a non-turbocharged engine, and the turbocharged 2.0GT with intercooler. The front grille and hoodscoop denotes if the engine is turbocharged; the chrome plated version is attached to vehicles without a turbo, and a metal mesh with dark plating is for the turbo. Two catalytic converters have been installed in a tandem configuration for effective emissions control. Active Torque Split transmission is used on engines without a turbo, and VTD is used with the turbo. Wheel sizes are either 16" or 17" for the turbo. For the Japanese-spec Exiga, AWD is optional on the naturally aspirated version and standard on the turbo as of 5 July 2008.

On 2 September 2009, the Lineartronic CVT transmission was available on AWD vehicles, and a driver safety aid called "EyeSight" was added as an option on the top level 2.0GT. In November 2009, a limited edition "2.0 GT tuned by STi" was released. This version had an STi front spoiler and alloy wheels, a sport muffler and tighter suspension, along with various interior upgrades such as half-leather seats and a leather-covered Momo steering wheel.[5] Only 300 examples were built.

EyeSight consists of twin cameras, one on each side of the rear view mirror, that use human-like stereoscopic vision to judge distances and generally keep tabs on the driver. The system can help maintain a safe distance on the highway, a lane departure warning system, a driver alert warning for various safety situations, and even keeps an eye out for pedestrians.[6][7] SI-Cruise has also been integrated into the EyeSight feature.

The Exiga can seat seven passengers, utilizing a gradual elevation of the seats, placing the first and second rows slightly lower than the third row. An optional, fixed position, panoramic glass roof covers the first and second rows of seats. Large rear door openings open to almost 90 degrees for easy access to the third row. The rear suspension uses double-wishbone architecture to make room for the third row and a wide luggage compartment when the second and third row seats are folded down. The second row seats can be individually slid back and forth 180 mm (7.1 in) as needed, with a one touch folding mechanism to allow access to the third row. The cargo area offers a covered stacking approach, allowing items to be placed under the floor. Two airbags are used for front passengers, supplemented with first row side impact and additional side curtain airbags protect first and second row passengers. The seats utilize anti-whiplash, impact-absorbing technology. A collapsible brake pedal is included to reduce the chance of foot injury in a severe collision. There are no air conditioning outlets for the second and third rows but the front outlet is designed to channel the air further along the ceiling of the vehicle.[8]

Indirect blue LED lighting is installed in the overhead console, center tray and foot wells.

Subaru announced on 16 April 2015 that they would be releasing the Exiga Crossover 7 in Japan.[9]

The Exiga was discontinued in Japan in March 2018.

Australia

[edit]

With the positive reputation of Liberty in the Australian market, the Exiga was released in Australia in November 2009.[10] Marketed as Liberty Exiga, it is powered by 2.5-liter naturally aspirated EJ25 engine and available as the base 2.5i and upmarket 2.5i Premium trim levels.

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Subaru Exiga is a mid-size, seven-seater multi-purpose (MPV) manufactured by the Japanese automaker Subaru from 2008 to 2018, designed primarily for family-oriented "panorama touring" with a spacious interior and Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. It debuted as the Exiga Concept at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in 2007, featuring a horizontally-opposed turbocharged 2.0-liter boxer engine, theater-style seating for enhanced visibility, and a panoramic glass roof to create an open, luxurious cabin for up to seven adults. Production models, launched in June 2008, were built on a platform shared with the Subaru Legacy and Impreza, offering dimensions of 4,740 mm in length, 1,775 mm in width, 1,660 mm in height, and a 2,750 mm wheelbase to balance maneuverability and roominess. Engine options included a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter flat-four producing 148 horsepower, a turbocharged 2.0-liter variant with 225 horsepower for sportier performance, and later a 2.5-liter flat-four for select markets like and , paired with either or Subaru's Symmetrical AWD and automatic transmissions including a four-speed automatic, five-speed automatic, and Lineartronic CVT. Notable features emphasized practicality and safety, such as 60/40 split-folding second-row seats, stowable third-row jump seats accommodating adults up to six feet tall, and advanced systems like EyeSight driver-assist technology in later models, including and pre-collision braking, making it a versatile crossover MPV despite Subaru's performance-oriented reputation. Primarily marketed in with exports to and , the Exiga stood out for its blend of agile handling, derived from Subaru's rally heritage, and family-friendly accommodations, though it was never officially sold in .

Development

Concept and origins

The Subaru Exiga originated as a concept unveiled by Fuji Heavy Industries (now ) at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show in October 2007, where it was presented as a seven-seater multi-purpose (MPV) designed specifically for family use, emphasizing spacious accommodations and versatile touring capabilities. The concept featured a wagon-like body with a focus on accommodating seven adults comfortably, drawing inspiration from Subaru's tradition of practical yet engaging vehicles for everyday and long-distance travel. The name "Exiga" was coined as a blending the English words "exciting" and "active," reflecting Subaru's intent to deliver a dynamic driving experience combined with active lifestyle versatility in a family-oriented package. This underscored the model's goal of infusing energy and adaptability into the MPV segment, setting it apart from more utilitarian competitors. Positioned as a successor to the Subaru Traviq minivan, which had been discontinued in , the Exiga addressed the demand for a contemporary all-wheel-drive (AWD) family transporter in Subaru's domestic lineup, building briefly on the AWD heritage of the Legacy platform to enhance traction and stability for varied conditions. In initial press materials from Subaru in , the concept was highlighted for its emphasis on panoramic visibility—achieved through a glass roof and elevated seating—and an overall touring experience aimed at providing safety, comfort, and enjoyment for multi-passenger journeys. Following its positive reception at the Tokyo Motor Show, the Exiga concept received production approval shortly thereafter, leading to the model's official launch in in mid-2008 as a ready-for-market . This rapid transition from concept to production demonstrated Subaru's confidence in the design's appeal to family buyers seeking a blend of practicality and performance.

Design and engineering

The Subaru Exiga was engineered on a platform derived from the Legacy, enabling enhanced handling characteristics and efficient use of interior space within its seven-seater multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) configuration. This adaptation allowed for a longer and optimized packaging, balancing the demands of family-oriented utility with Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive (AWD) dynamics. Key interior innovations emphasized comfort and versatility, featuring theater-style seating across three rows elevated at staggered heights to improve visibility and reduce fatigue for rear passengers. An optional panoramic glass roof extended over the second row, creating an open, airy cabin atmosphere, while the second-row seats offered 180 mm of fore-aft sliding adjustment and foldable designs supporting flexible 7-, 6-, or 5-seat arrangements. A flat floor, achieved through a placement, further maximized legroom in the third row. Safety engineering integrated Subaru's advanced driver-assist technologies, with the EyeSight system introduced on the 2009 model year EXIGA 2.0GT variant. This stereo camera-based setup provided with full-speed-range tracking and pre-collision braking using 3D image processing to detect obstacles, pedestrians, and cyclists, supplemented by features like lane departure warning. The body structure employed a Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame with high-tensile steel for improved rigidity and crash energy dispersion. Exterior design prioritized an aerodynamic MPV silhouette with Subaru's characteristic hexagonal grille—refined chrome for naturally aspirated models and a sportier wing-shaped variant for turbo versions—contributing to a of drag optimized for efficiency. Final dimensions measured 4,740 mm in length, 1,775 mm in width, and 1,660 mm in height, with a 2,750 mm supporting the spacious interior without excessive bulk. Engineering highlights included a double-wishbone rear suspension with tailored geometry for superior ride quality, traction, and stability, paired with lightweight strut-type front suspension and stabilizers. The Symmetrical AWD system, combined with the horizontally opposed engine layout, maintained a low center of gravity to enhance cornering poise and overall vehicle balance in diverse conditions.

Specifications

Chassis and dimensions

The Subaru Exiga utilizes a platform derived from the fourth-generation Subaru Legacy, featuring a layout that supports the brand's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and stability. This unibody construction incorporates a reinforced frame designed to accommodate seven passengers while maintaining structural integrity under family-oriented loads. The vehicle's body is built as a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with a low-floor to improve interior space utilization, resulting in curb weights between 1,490 kg and 1,650 kg across trims, influenced by equipment and variations. Key dimensions include a of 2,750 mm, overall length of 4,740 mm, width of 1,775 mm, height of 1,660 mm, and ground clearance of 155 mm, providing a balanced for urban maneuverability and comfort.
DimensionMeasurement
2,750 mm
Overall Length4,740 mm
Overall Width1,775 mm
Overall Height1,660 mm
Ground Clearance155 mm
The suspension setup employs front MacPherson struts for responsive handling and a rear double-wishbone configuration to optimize ride and stability, particularly suited for loaded configurations. Braking is handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels, ensuring reliable stopping power, while wheels consisted of 16-inch or 17-inch alloy rims fitted with 205/60 R16 or 215/50 R17 tires depending on year and trim, with 18-inch alloys available as an option on premium trims for improved aesthetics and grip.

Powertrain and performance

The Subaru Exiga featured a range of horizontally opposed four-cylinder (boxer) engines, emphasizing Subaru's signature engineering for balance and low center of gravity. The base naturally aspirated 2.0-liter EJ20 engine produced 110 kW (148 PS) at 6,000 rpm and 191 Nm of torque at 3,200 rpm, providing adequate power for everyday family use while prioritizing efficiency. In performance-oriented variants, a turbocharged 2.0-liter EJ20 engine delivered 165 kW (225 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 326 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm, enabling brisk acceleration suitable for a seven-seater MPV. For select markets, particularly in later production years, a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated FB25 engine was offered, generating 126 kW (170 PS) at 5,600 rpm and 235 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, bridging the gap between base efficiency and added refinement. Transmission options evolved over the model's lifecycle to balance performance and drivability. Early naturally aspirated models were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, while turbocharged versions utilized a five-speed automatic for smoother shifts under load. Starting in 2010, Subaru introduced the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT) across most variants, which optimized engine revs for better fuel efficiency and included paddle shifters on GT models for manual-like control. Drivetrain configurations reflected the Exiga's versatility for varied conditions. Front-wheel drive was standard on base naturally aspirated models to enhance economy, but Subaru's full-time symmetrical all-wheel drive system—known for its torque distribution and stability—was standard on turbo variants and available as an option on others, integrating seamlessly with the for enhanced traction. Performance characteristics varied by , with the turbo model standing out for its responsiveness. It achieved 0-100 km/h acceleration in 7.3 to 8.7 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 200 km/h, making it competitive among MPVs of its era. Combined fuel economy ranged from 7.7 to 10.2 L/100 km, influenced by drivetrain, transmission, and driving conditions, with the CVT-equipped versions generally at the lower end of consumption. Turbo models incorporated Subaru's SI-Drive system, offering selectable modes—Intelligent for efficient daily driving, for balanced responsiveness, and Sport Sharp for sharper mapping and transmission behavior—to adapt to driver preferences.

Models and variants

Trim levels

The Subaru Exiga was offered in four primary trim levels at launch in : the base 2.0i, mid-range 2.0i-L and 2.0i-S, and top-spec 2.0GT. These trims shared a standard seven-seater configuration with theater-style seating across three rows, where the second row could slide 180 mm for flexibility and the third row reclined or folded flat to expand cargo space from approximately 195 liters behind the third row to 460 liters with the third row folded, and further with the second row folded. An optional six-seater layout with second-row captain's chairs was available on higher trims for enhanced comfort. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup via Subaru's Symmetrical AWD system, complemented by vehicle dynamics control, hill-start assist, and essential safety features including ABS with electronic brake-force distribution and dual front SRS airbags (with side and curtain airbags optional). The entry-level 2.0i featured cloth , a basic six-speaker audio , manual , 16-inch steel wheels with 205/60R16 tires, and power windows/mirrors as standard equipment, prioritizing affordability while maintaining core safety and drivetrain capabilities. The 2.0i-L added luxury-oriented enhancements such as higher-quality interior trim materials (including optional seating), a panoramic glass roof, keyless entry, and an upgraded instrument cluster with Luminescent Meter dials, while retaining the same 16-inch wheels and naturally aspirated 2.0-liter as the base model. The 2.0i-S built on this with sportier styling elements like aerodynamic side sills, 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/50R17 tires, and optional rear entertainment screens via a DVD ; from 2010 onward, it introduced Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist suite as an option, featuring , pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. became available on these mid trims post-facelift in 2011. The premium 2.0GT trim paired the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine exclusively with this level, along with 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, integrated navigation, a premium audio system, and a sport-tuned suspension for sharper handling via the SI-Drive selectable drive modes (Intelligent, , and Sport Sharp). Leather seats were standard, and EyeSight was offered as standard from 2010, enhancing safety with its stereo camera-based monitoring.

Special editions and updates

In November 2009, Subaru released the Exiga 2.0GT tuned by STI, a limited-edition variant restricted to units. This model incorporated an STI-developed aerodynamic kit featuring a front spoiler and sport for improved stability, along with 17-inch BBS alloy wheels borrowed from the Impreza WRX STI. The interior included black Alcantara-upholstered sport seats with red contrast stitching and carbon-look accents, while the suspension was enhanced with STI pillow-ball bushing rear links, a flexible tower bar, and support bars for sharper handling. The turbocharged 2.0-liter EJ20 engine was tuned to produce 225 PS (166 kW) at 5,600 rpm and 326 Nm of torque at 4,400 rpm. The Exiga lineup received a mid-cycle facelift in 2011, which revised the front fascia for a more modern appearance, including an updated radiator grille and new headlights, and refined the Lineartronic CVT for smoother shifts and better efficiency. This update also introduced a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated option (173 PS) for new 2.5i trims, paired with Lineartronic CVT, and broadened the availability of the EyeSight driver-assistance system—Subaru's suite of , pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning—to additional trims beyond the initial 2.0GT models, accompanied by subtle interior enhancements like updated interfaces. In April 2015, Subaru introduced the Exiga Crossover 7 as a rugged crossover utility variant, elevating the suspension by 20 mm over the standard model for 170 mm of ground clearance to better handle uneven terrain. It adopted crossover-specific styling with blacked-out cladding, roof rails, and all-terrain tires, while carrying over the 2.5-liter boxer engine paired with CVT and all-wheel drive. The EyeSight system remained standard on higher trims, emphasizing family-oriented versatility. Production of the Exiga concluded in early 2018 after a decade on the market, with the model phased out in and its three-row MPV role assumed globally by the larger crossover.

Production and markets

The Subaru Exiga entered production in June 2008 at Subaru's Gunma Manufacturing Division Ōta plant in , , where it was assembled alongside models such as the Legacy and . This facility, part of Subaru's primary domestic manufacturing hub, handled the vehicle's assembly through its lifecycle, leveraging the company's expertise in boxer engine integration and all-wheel-drive systems tailored for the Japanese market. Launched domestically on June 17, 2008, the Exiga was priced from ¥1,995,000 for the entry-level 2.0i model to ¥2,782,500 for the top-spec 2.0GT variant, positioning it as an accessible yet premium family vehicle in the mid-size MPV segment. Subaru targeted urban families seeking a seven-seater with all-wheel drive for enhanced stability and safety, emphasizing panoramic visibility through its theater-style seating and large glass areas for a "panorama touring" experience. Initial sales momentum was robust, with the company projecting monthly volumes of 2,300 units as a versatile alternative to traditional minivans. Over its production run, the Exiga achieved total output of approximately 53,000 units, reflecting steady but gradually tapering demand in . Annual sales peaked in the 2009–2010 period amid favorable reception as a practical AWD hauler, but began declining thereafter, falling to around 500 units per month by 2015 due to shifting consumer preferences toward more versatile crossover SUVs like the . Production ultimately ceased in 2018, marking the end of the model's decade-long run as Subaru refocused its lineup on evolving market trends.

Export markets

The Subaru Exiga saw limited export availability outside , with serving as the primary international market where it was rebadged as the Subaru Liberty Exiga and launched in 2009. This model featured a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed four-cylinder producing 123 kW of power and 229 Nm of , paired exclusively with a Lineartronic and all-wheel drive. Priced from A$37,490 for the base 2.5i variant to A$41,990 for the Premium trim, it was positioned as a premium seven-seater family wagon targeting buyers seeking a versatile alternative to traditional SUVs. Subaru anticipated modest sales of 50 to 75 units per month, reflecting its niche appeal in a market dominated by larger SUVs. In , the Exiga experienced minor sales primarily in right-hand-drive configurations, with receiving the model shortly after its Japanese debut in late . There, it was marketed as a seven-seater MPV priced around SGD 129,000, though official distribution ceased by the third quarter of 2011 due to subdued demand. Availability in other regional markets was negligible, limited mostly to gray-market imports rather than official channels. The Exiga was absent from North American markets, where Subaru prioritized the crossover to fulfill the role of a three-row family vehicle. Adaptations for export markets were minimal, focusing on right-hand-drive setups to suit and , with compliance to local emissions standards such as Euro 4 in . Marketing emphasized its panoramic visibility, flexible seating for up to seven passengers, and Subaru's signature all-wheel-drive system as ideal for family touring. However, the model's high pricing and relatively high fuel consumption—around 8.6 L/100 km combined—hindered broader appeal, especially against competitors like the and , which offered similar seating at lower costs. The Liberty Exiga was discontinued in in 2014 after five years on sale, attributed to consistently low sales volumes that fell short of expectations. Following this, Subaru shifted focus entirely to the Japanese domestic market, with no further export initiatives for the Exiga lineup.

References

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