Not many people fully understand the reasoning behind Toyota->ke88 and Subaru->ke86 developing different versions of the new FT-86 sports car->ke3538, but it's a fact that we all have to live with. But just because they have the same starting point doesn't mean the two cars are not going in two directions. As of now, we've heard tons of things about Toyota's version - including the fact that it will be rebadged as a Scion - but today we bring new information on Subaru's (better) version with an image of the sports car testing in the U.S. And it's not your usual prototype; parts of the body offer an important clue as to the future car’s powerplant of choice.

The prototype caught testing features a hood bump that indicates the sports car will feature an intercooler. What does this mean? Well, it means that, yes, we are looking at an STI version, or at least at a sports car that will be powered by the Impreza STI’s turbocharged 2.5 liter engine. However, while the engine delivers 300hp in the Impreza, the FT-86 sports car will get a version that will be downtuned.

The sports car will be based on a modified Subaru Legacy platform and will be offered with RWD system, a first for Subaru since it is known for its all-wheel-drive line-up.

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