Subaru has removed all of its diesel-engined models from sale in the UK, in a move likely to be caused by the incoming WLTP emissions test regulations.
The Japanese brand's latest models, the Impreza hatchback and Subaru XV SUV, were introduced without the option of a diesel engine. Now, all references to the 2.0-litre boxer diesel unit previously offered in the Forester and Subaru Outback have been removed from Subaru's website.
The move comes as a surprise, because the oil-burning variants of Subaru's largest models were the volume sellers in the range. Buyers of the Forester can now only choose a 2.0-litre boxer petrol engine, with or without a turbocharger. The Outback's sole engine choice is a naturally aspirated 2.5-litre petrol mated to a CVT gearbox.
Subaru's decision to drop its 2.0-litre diesel engine is almost certainly due to it not meeting the standards of the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicles Test Procedure) regulations, which come into force next month.
Many manufacturers are being forced to re-engineer powertrains to ensure published CO2 and fuel economy figures don't increase dramatically under the new regime.
Dealer stock of diesel Subarus is still available to buy, but no pre-WLTP cars can be registered by manufacturers from 1 September.
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Ok but what alternatives are there?
For Subaru I can understand why continued investment in diesels, when the only market is really Europe, is not worthwhile. But where are the downsized petrols and hybrids? The 1.6 turbo in the Levorg needs to go in the Imprezza and XV, preferably with a manual gearbox in addition to the CVT and the hybrid needs fast-tracking.
Subaru 1.6 petrol turbo engine
This engine will not be fitted to any other Subaru in the current range. I was told this by a Subaru team at The Goodward Festival Of Speed last year. In fact the Levorg is no longer available unless a dealer has a unregistered one in stock. Or you buy used like I did.
My understanding is that Toyota, Mazda, Suzuki and Subaru are working together intently on hybrid motors.
Improved petrol engines?
Subaru work quite closely with Mazda and Mazda are pushing new petrol engine technology that closes the gap to diesels and by not overly downsizing these offers reasoanble torque figures as well. Perhaps Subaru wish to try this as they were slow to develop diesels and reluctant to buy in a traditional lump that wouldn't really fit their drivetrain.
XT
There cannot be too many of the run out turbo model left either.
Subaru's Future
I spoke to Subaru staff at the Goodward Festival Of Speed last year and was informed that the 1.6 petrol turbo engine as is fitted to the Levorg will not find it's way in to any other car in the current Subaru range.