August 6, 2023

Subaru Levorg (WRX) Layback Puts That Black Cladding To Good Use


Insane or ingenious? Subaru has found a way to increase its product portfolio by teasing what’s essentially a WRX crossover.

Set for a debut later this year, Subaru has released the first teaser photos of the “Levorg Layback.” Developed for the Japanese market (no word if it’ll be released for export), it’s essentially a jacked up WRX Wagon / Levorg.


Now, if you’re thinking it’s a silly move, it’s best to remind you that the carmaker does have the Outback—essentially a raised Legacy wagon—which has been received to universal acclaim not just in Japan, but around the world as well. Plus, because the WRX sedan already comes with the accursed black fender flares, why not put them to good use in an actual SUV, right?

Going back to the Levorg Layback, the name itself is derived from the words, “Laid Back.” And Subaru has gone so far to call it a “unique SUV.” Unique may be down to its performance positioning. After all, the Levorg does come with either a 177-horsepower turbocharged 1.8 or a 275-horsepower turbocharged 2.4 boxer engine. Both are mated to a CVT driving all four wheels. Export markets only get the larger engine.


Based on the teasers, the Levorg Layback will get a different grille with a prominent chrome brow connecting the LED headlights. The front bumper also looks different with a squared-off shape and the air inlets pushed to the corners. Clearly shown in the teasers is the three-camera Subaru EyeSight system as well. Inside, it looks to have a two-tone leather upholstery with some fancy contrast stitching.

Regardless of what powertrain it will get, the Levorg / WRX Layback is expected to be positioned above the Forester and below the Outback in terms of pricing. Japanese dealerships will accept reservations starting September 7 which means a launch is just a few weeks away.

2 comments:

  1. Someone at Subaru must reaaaally like the Levorg name. They just won't let it die. Some genius there must think the Levorg name is a brilliant masterpiece of an idea.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hopefully, we get this. At least for the time being we would get a Subaru SUV not named Evoltis that is turbocharged.

    ReplyDelete

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