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]
Maybe a paddle shifted sequential gearbox, because racecar
Not gonna fall for this goat-rope again. STi with thoroughly revised engine (DI + port injection, modern turbo), hatchback form factor, and actually looking like the concept or GTFO.
WRX/STi used to punch well above its weight. If Subaru isn’t aiming high then what’s the point?
You’ll get an uglified Impreza sedan with a 306.5hp EJ25 and you’ll like it, bub.
Needs more Levorg.
I don’t need more Levorgs if they won’t sell it in North America.
@b534202 – a little off subject…is your screen id your old Navy service number?
The front is all ‘wRX-8’.
I was at the Tokyo show in 2013 to see the original Levorg, and I can now confirm that Levorg means using smoke, mirrors, beams of light, and long hydraulic actuators to dangle a station wagon up and around its platform.
It’ll look nothing like this. Expect a lowered Crosstrek with a hood scoop and bigger wheels, that’s about it.
It will be at least 33% wheel by volume.
Sold. I’d buy that immediately.
That’s kind of what I am thinking … This seems to mostly be photo trickery designed to mask how low and wide it ISN’T. If they do include fender flares this wide on the production version, combined with special front and rear bumper covers that actually extend into the fender flares, then it could look pretty neat. They need to do something after the last *yawn* generation.
That’s the best looking Ford front end I’ve ever seen.
?
Looks like it belongs on a Ford, not a Subie.
Still have my ’12 WRX hatch purchased new. Won’t even consider the new WRX until they make the hatchback again.
Ditto- I still don’t understand why Subaru killed the WRX hatch. The development cost would be insignificant.
Have you noticed just about all the Japanese car makers produce better sedans than Detroit.
GM what a disgrace!
Actually many of the big 3 sedans are very good and better than most others. It is just the sedan is taking a down turn to other types of vehicles. Malibu and Fusion are great. Right now you can get a Fusion awd with a twin turbo v6 for $25k, with rebates. 10 years ago that would be considered one of th fastest sedans in the world. Ford Hammer time.
Buddy just got a Fusion Sport. Spent more time in the shop than on the road due to electrical issues, apparently.
Guard that bridge troll…NONE SHALL PASS!!!
No hatch no care.
Not sure we can go another product generation without replacing our current one. So might have to look at something else.
HATCH HATCH HATCH
HEY SUBARU MAKE IT A HATCH
HATCH AND STANDARD SUNROOF
HATCH AND STANDARD SUNROOF
HATCH AND STANDARD SUNROOF
Need I repeat myself?