By Steve Laser
Subaru offers a variety of models with familiar names at its new-car showrooms in Japan. There’s the Forester, Crosstrek, Legacy, Outback, Impreza, WRX, BRZ and Solterra. But wait a minute – what’s that over there? It’s called the Subaru Chiffon.
Mini-vehicles are big business in Japan, where the sales leader continues to be the Honda N-BOX. While Subaru used to build its own “Kei cars,” it has relied on Daihatsu to supply an array of small vehicles – including the Chiffon.
Chiffon is available in a base model, the upscale Chiffon Custom (above), and a new version, called Chiffon Try, that joined the lineup this month.
Design cues for Chiffon Try give it a more outdoorsy and “rugged” appearance, while the interior offers plenty of space for adventure gear. New exterior colors include sporty Lake Blue Metallic (above) and Forest Khaki Metallic.
Unique styling touches feature a distinctive front grille and fascia with LED headlights and fog lights, side sill spoilers, silver garnishes, roof rails, and LED rear combination lights.
Chiffon Try is powered by a 658cc 3-cylinder DOHC 12-valve engine teamed with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) and choice of 2WD or 4WD. Chiffon Custom RS continues to offer a turbocharged version.
The tall roof and boxy design provide a roomy interior. Access is easy, thanks to the power-sliding “Miracle Open Door” on the passenger side. It can be set to open automatically when the driver approaches and it senses the vehicle key. (Chiffon Custom shown above and below).
With standard seating for four passengers, Chiffon Custom features leatherette and fabric upholstery. Chiffon Try has exclusive seat coverings with orange accents along with a water-repellent finish.
Passengers can stretch out and relax while the vehicle is parked, thanks to the flat-folding front bench-style and reclining split-rear seats.
Both models feature a TFT color multi-information display, navigation upgrade pack, and electronic parking brake. Available options include smartphone-linked 9-inch display audio that supports Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, panorama view monitor and parking assist, plus an ETC unit.
Standard safety features include collision warning and avoidance assist, lane departure warning and prevention, road departure warning, sign recognition, and front and rear corner sensors. Adaptive cruise control, lane keep control, and cornering trace assist are optional.
Note: Features and specifications for Japan market models are subject to change without notice. Chiffon is an OEM supply from Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd.
News source and photos courtesy of Subaru Corp. Photos are posted in this story for editorial use.
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