Spy Shots: Subaru FT-86 spied again ahead of Geneva reveal

Subaru has already announced that it plans to debut its version of the rear-wheel-drive FT-86 concept at next month's Geneva Motor Show. It's safe to say that the joint venture between Toyota and Subaru is one of the most highly anticipated debuts of the year, and while the vehicle that takes the stage in Switzerland will still be designated as a concept, it should give us a very good glimpse as to what's in store for the production car.

Our trusty spy photographers have caught Subaru's version of the sports car out testing, and while we've been quick to label the Toyobaru as a coupe, this latest set of photos suggests a hatchback configuration. There's still a small deck out back, though, so perhaps the term 'fastback' is more appropriately used in an instance like this (sort of like the Scion tC). Either way, the bodywork looks similar to evaluation mules we've seen periodically over the last couple of years, but it isn't known for certain if the bodywork shrouded in camouflage is production.

In any case, you can expect to see a 2.0-liter turbocharged flat-four under the hood, producing something like 260 horsepower. Subaru will break its all-wheel-drive-only mantra with this new car, as the automaker has confirmed that power will run solely to the rear wheels.

[Source: Brian Williams for Brenda Priddy & Company]

Toyota debuts modestly refreshed 2011 Matrix in Chicago

Toyota will not be having a formal press conference at this week's Chicago Auto Show, but the automaker will still have something fresh on its stand. The 2011 Matrix hatchback has officially bowed, with a slightly retouched exterior (new wheels, different paint choices, etc.), a touched-up interior with a new steering wheel and seat fabrics, and a new standard brake-override system called Smart Stop.

The 2011 Matrix is only available in two trim levels – base and S – and is powered by either a 132-horsepower 1.8-liter or 158-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. Transmission choices include a four- or five-speed automatic, as well as a five-speed manual, and all-wheel drive is available on the Matrix S when paired with the 2.4-liter powerplant.

New sport packages are available for both Matrix trims, with the S Sport Package incorporating things like 17-inch alloy wheels, front and rear underbody spoilers, a roof-mounted rear spoiler and, of course, 'S' badging. Pricing has not been released for the 2011 Matrix as of this writing, but we expect the starting MSRP to be just under $17,000. Follow the jump for the official details.


[Source: Toyota]