Subaru Levorg Concept has us dreaming about a WRX wagon

Wed, 20 Nov 2013

We're not sure what got in the water supply of Subaru's Tokyo Motor Show team, but we like the results. After checking out the Cross Sport Design Concept, which we would love to see as a BRZ shooting brake, Subaru took the wraps off its Levorg Concept. Naming convention aside, the idea of a sport-tuned wagon with a boxer engine is music to our ears.

The design language fits in with recent Subaru products, and the Levorg's face is very similar to the 2015 WRX that was just unveiled across the Pacific Ocean at the LA Auto Show. In terms of its size, though, this concept is roughly the same as the current Outback, only it sits about five inches lower. Power comes from either of a pair of boxer engines: a fuel-efficient 1.6-liter or a 296-horsepower, 2.0-liter. Both engines would be paired to Subaru's Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.

Subaru says that the Levorg is a thinly veiled version of the production sports tourer that will go on sale (likely in Japan and/or Europe) next spring. Could this mean we could soon see a sporty Legacy wagon in the US? We can only hope. More details about the Levorg are posted in the press release found below.

World Premiere of Subaru "LEVORG" at 43rd Tokyo Motor Show 2013

Tokyo, November 20, 2013 - Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles,unveiled for the first time in the world today the prototype of "LEVORG" at the 43rd Tokyo MotorShow 2013. (Open to public from November 23 to December 1 at Tokyo Big Sight)

In developing automobiles, Subaru has always pursued optimal sports performance that amplifies the pleasure of driving. The new sports tourer Levorg is the fruit of Subaru's commitment which not only offers driving enjoyment but also practical touring abilities which ensure a stress-free drive even in long distances. Levorg is the embodiment of Subaru's longtime achievements and symbolizes the latest Subaru standards.

The goal in the development of Levorg was to make every customer who owned this vehicle thoroughly satisfied with it.

Over the years, Subaru has accumulated extensive knowledge on producing automobiles that provide "driving enjoyment and peace of mind". All of it was poured into the creation of Levorg while paying utmost attention to the slightest detail and never losing sight of the essence, i.e., what customers really want in a car.

Levorg has the power to make driving smooth and lively. However, it carries a low displacement engine that also allows excellent fuel efficiency. The Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" powertrain comes in two types; one, the newly-developed 1.6-liter DIT, and two, the 2.0-liter DIT which gives superb driving pleasure with its high output and torque.

Levorg features an exquisite and stylish design of a sports tourer while also realizing abundant load capacity. Other attractions include its quality interior with finesse obvious in even the smallest parts, maximized utility, first-class driving comfort, and an exhilarating steering experience. It is equipped with the next-generation EyeSight as well; all of these aspects contribute to a model that represents the future of Subaru and gains customer satisfaction that exceeds expectations.

The production Levorg is scheduled to launch sales in spring 2014; pre-orders begin January 4,2014.

Subaru Levorg (Prototype)
[Main features]

Product concept

"Sports Tourer Innovation"
Subaru prides itself on its unique approach to sports and touring performances of an automobile.Sports performance is linked to how much the car can offer driving enjoyment while touring performance is about a practical and comfortable driving experience even on long rides. Levorg has been developed to merge the two but with both at extremely high standards so that many of the qualities that are desired in a car become attainable. It innovates the whole concept of the sports tourer.

< Model lineup >

Engine Grade Features
1.6-liter Horizontally-Opposed
DIT 1.6GT
EyeSight The symbol of Subaru's future; has exceptional level of both driving and environmental performance
1.6GT-S
EyeSight Advanced sports model; equipped with specialized items
2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed
DIT 2.0GT
EyeSight Superb power performance model
2.0GT-S

EyeSight Levorg flagship model; enhanced ownership satisfaction

Packaging
High utility is expected of a touring car as well as a comfortable space for all passengers especially when going on long drives. Levorg was built to fulfill those requests.

Body size is just right for Japanese road and traffic conditions and yet has enough interior space for a pleasant ride.
Styling is sleek befitting a sports tourer but cargo space is functional and roomy, designed with the expertise gained from years of developing wagons.

Design
< Exterior >
A fusion of stylish and functional was aimed for in the designing of Levorg to express an innovative sports tourer. The impression of it as a sports car is strong while it also possesses a smooth sporty feel of a wagon.

While maintaining ample cargo space, the end of the roof was kept low to realize the sleek silhouette from body front to rear. Its chic but active appearance conveys the sports tourer Levorg's performance potential.

The dynamic front design with a three-dimensional feel was made possible by employing a nose cone. It features the standard Subaru design motif of the hexagon grille. The hawk eye headlights emphasize Levorg's energetic aura.

The body color is available in "Metallic blue grey steel" or "Pearl crystal white", both never used in production before.

< Interior >
The texture and quality of material were of great importance, as well as the attention to details, to give Levorg's interior an overall high quality feel. Levorg is equipped with advanced and useful functions all around.

Piano black finishes, metallic-toned accents and plated parts highlight the interior and create a rich space.

The meters employ the twin-lens horizontal layout of 3.5 inch full-color liquid crystal displays.The satin plated rings with ice blue lighting emphasize a sharp high-tech look.

Levorg's sportiness is portrayed in the D-shaped steering wheel that raises expectation for a fun driving experience.

Levorg riders will receive various greetings from the vehicle that will appeal to their senses. For instance, when the driver gets on the car, the meters put on a little opening act while welcoming sounds are played.

Mechanism
< Engine >
Two types of engines are made available in Levorg, each with unique appealing qualities in its balance between driving and environmental friendliness.

- 1.6-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" Engine -

- The newly developed 1.6-liter Horizontally-Opposed DIT offers both brisk driving pleasure and superb fuel performance of 17.4 km/liter (JC08 mode)*1. This feat is actualized by combining a low displacement engine with DIT.
- Fuel efficiency was enhanced by Subaru's first adoption of DIT plus no idling.
- A full tank can keep Levorg running for 1000km*2. The engine is fit for a sports tourer that can take passengers farther in more comfort. It is also economical, made for regular unleaded gasoline.

- 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" Engine -

- A high output of 221kW (300PS)*1 and a torque that reaches 400N

By Jeffrey N. Ross