Subaru’s small van has been given an off-road inspired makeover and it looks better for it
- The Subaru Chiffon Try is a ruggedized kei car for Japan featuring unique off-road design elements.
- It’s a ruggedized model that features plastic body cladding, roof rails, and orange interior accents.
- Pricing starts at the equivalent of $11,336 and buyers will find a 51 hp three-cylinder engine.
The Daihatsu-based Subaru Chiffon has been around for nearly a decade, but it’s now embracing the off-road trend. The end result is the impossibly cute Chiffon Try.
While we wouldn’t suggest trying its off-road chops at Moab, the Chiffon Try has been equipped with an “active front face” that appears to include plastic body cladding, a faux silver skid plate, and a revised grille. The model also sports roof rails and side cladding to “stand out in outdoor scenes.”
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The changes don’t end there as customers will find a handful of exclusive colors. These include Lake Blue Metallic and Forest Khaki Metallic as well as three different two-tone options.
Customers will also find a “miracle open door” design, which lacks a B-pillar. There’s also power sliding rear doors to further improve entry and egress.
Interior changes are modest, but include orange accents and waterproof rear seat backs. The latter should prevent the seats from getting soaked after storing your surfboard following a long day of hanging ten.
Buyers will also find water-repellent upholstery and a fold-flat front passenger seat, which enables the tiny Chiffon Try to accommodate long items. It also sounds like the model has a 9-inch infotainment system as well as a rear seat that slides 9.4 inches (240 mm) to allow owners to maximize cargo space or rear legroom.
Motivation is provided by a 660cc three-cylinder engine that produces 51 hp (38 kW / 52 PS) and 44 lb-ft (60 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a continuously variable transmission that sends power to the front wheels. However, an optional all-wheel drive system is available for an additional ¥110,000 ($749).
Pricing starts at ¥1,665,000 ($11,336) and the company is currently accepting orders in Japan. Subaru also announced a handful of minor changes for the regular Chiffon, which are largely focused on safety and equipment.