Subaru Teases What is Probably the Concept for the Next-gen WRX

Hoping to make a big splash at next month’s 2017 Tokyo Motor Show, Subaru will showcase two limited editions of its most-sporting models and one that will probably end up being the next-generation WRX or Legacy. Called the Subaru Viziv Performance Concept, the vehicle appears to be an abstract vision of what is arguably the company’s most famous automobile — or its more-dignified brother.

As a modern day concept car, Subaru has dubbed the machine a “semiautonomous performance concept sedan” — which could indicate a bevy of new driving aids. But, since the automaker isn’t too specific as to what those might be, we’re focusing on its shape for now.

First impressions? It’s incredibly wide-looking. So wide that you can actually see the outline of the tires, which appear to have some pretty aggressive negative camber. However, this could be an optical illusion, as a secondary photo highlights some extremely unique wheel arches. Rearward slats seem to be an aesthetic choice while little fins on the top could be indicative of something more functional. Perhaps a sensor to monitor blind spots or something in aid of aerodynamics? Your guess is as good as ours.

As they seem a little too high and petite to be canards, odds are better they have something to do with the impressive autonomous system the automaker promises. The car also has sensors mounted near the roof and tiny cameras where the side mirrors should be. Subaru has said it wants to offer customers Level 2 autonomy by around 2020.

Featuring the hexagonal grille that’s now synonymous with the brand, large inlets near the bottom help reinforce that the Viziv is probably WRX-adjacent. A short trunk seems indicative of a fastback sedan, although there is enough of a decklid to affix an integrated spoiler to. But aggressive aero doesn’t guarantee this concept vehicle isn’t a precursor for the 2019 Subaru Legacy.

The name itself isn’t helpful, however. The company has used the Viziv name, which is a portmanteau of vision and innovation, on numerous concept vehicles. Everything from a hulking SUV to a scissor-doored hatchback has been attached to it and we don’t have much more to go on than its appearance.

Subaru is likely to give us specifics on the Viziv’s powertrain and some confirmation as to its hypothetical place in the automotive lineup after the the Tokyo Motor Show opens on October 25th. It’ll be positioned between a Japan-only limited edition of the WRX STI sports sedan and the Cool Grey Khaki edition of the BRZ STI Sport — which will get a 100-unit run and be sold by lottery.

[Image: Subaru]