When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Do you know how we know Subaru loves us? Because instead of taking wagons away from us like other stingy automakers, they're giving us MORE WAGONS. Thanks, Subaru!
Meet the Subaru Levorg Concept, which is set to debut soon at the Tokyo Motor Show. It's called a concept, but as Carscoops notes, it looks pretty much production ready as it is right now.
When Super Dimension Attack Wagon Levorg was first announced, we thought was the new Subaru Legacy wagon. Instead, it may end up being an entirely new model. In terms of size the Levorg sits between the Impreza and the Legacy in Subaru's lineup.
Subaru says Levorg buyers will be able to choose from either a 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter boxer engine, both turbocharged for your speeding pleasure. The first is rated at about 170 horsepower, the second at about 300 horsepower. Both are equipped with Subaru's Lineartronic CVT gearbox; no mention of a manual transmission is made. Other goodies include the latest generation Subaru EyeSight crash avoidance system.
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・m (40.8kgf・m)*1 with 2000 rpm are impressive performances suiting a high grade sports tourer. However, Levorg also achieved a superb environmental value of 13.2 km/liter (JC08 mode).
*1： Prototype specs; reference value
*2： When staying on 100 km/h on highway
< Transmission >
To match the two unique types of engine, the best fitting Lineartronic is optimized and installed.The characteristic of Lineartronic, its smoothness, is of course evident but it also provides a fun sporty drive with the "SI-DRIVE".
- Lineartronic (Coupled with 1.6-liter Horizontally-Opposed DIT Engine) -
For the 1.6-liter DIT, lightweight and compact Lineartronic has been adopted. The two modes of "SI-DRIVE" realize the best gear control for fuel efficiency and driving enjoyment.
- Sport Lineartronic (Coupled with 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed DIT Engine) -
High output and high torque 2.0-liter DIT is matched with Sport Lineartronic to endure the high performance model's heightened power and environmental performance.
"SI-DRIVE" has "Sport# (S#) mode" in which the driver can shift between eight steps. By choosing the mode, the driver can directly feel both Lineartronic's smooth gear shifting as well as its extraordinary power. It is sure to satisfy the desire for sporty driving.
< Chassis and Body >
Sports tourers are expected to offer both sports performance (for agile and fun driving) and quality driving comfort even on long rides. These demands were met by enhancing rigidity in various parts of the chassis and body of Levorg.
The electric power steering has been optimized and the body and suspension stiffness enhanced to realize a direct and sporty steering with great responsiveness.
The D-shaped steering wheel with a small diameter and thick grip improves maneuverability and grasp response.
Body and suspension stiffness was considerably refined to allow high grade driving comfort. By realizing a linear response to the road, Levorg can make even long drives a pleasurable experience, thereby fulfilling its role as a sports tourer.
Safety
The phrase "ALL-AROUND SAFETY" expresses Subaru's safety philosophy. Subaru improved performance of all safety factors, which included the advancement of EyeSight.
< Active Safety >
Subaru has been refining and upgrading the Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) for years. With Symmetrical AWD as the basis, combined with an advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, an exceptional hazard avoidance performance was attained. Also achieved was the security of safe and enjoyable driving in any situation.
Levorg is installed with the Emergency Stop Signal which quickly flashes the hazard warning lights when the vehicle makes an abrupt deceleration from high speed. It warns the cars behind it of rapid approach and collision risk.
< Passive Safety >
High tensile steel of 980MPa and other grades were effectively and amply employed. Although this effort contributed to reduction in weight, it also achieved world top-class level collision safety from all directions.
Seven airbags are standardly equipped in Levorg, including a knee airbag in the driver's seat which is the first time it is employed domestically. Airbags were optimally placed in the body of the vehicle to ensure excellent passenger protection.
To protect pedestrians, the front hood and bulkhead are built in an impact-absorbing structure and impact absorbents are placed in the engine compartment side.
< EyeSight >
Levorg is equipped with the latest version EyeSight which has new stereo cameras with a wider angle, farther visibility and color recognition. This new generation EyeSight can also control steering -- all of which adds up to a greatly advanced safety performance.
New features such as the Active Lane Keep System, Pre-Collision Reverse Throttle Management and Brake Light Recognition join forces with improved functions such as the Pre-Collision Braking Control and Adaptive Cruise Control to provide cutting-edge active safety technology.
< Pre-Collision Braking Control >
The relative speed at which automatic braking is possible to avoid collision between vehicle and object or to reduce collision damage has been increased to approximately 50 km/h maximum.
An approximate 40% increase in viewing angle and visibility distance makes possible the earlier detection of pedestrians, other vehicles cutting in, and cars ahead. More application opportunities mean more protection.
< Adaptive Cruise Control (Now available: Brake Light Recognition*4) >
The detection area of the stereo cameras has increased, therefore allowing improved response to acceleration/deceleration of the vehicles ahead, as well as better tracking of front vehicle when merging or rounding corners.
Because stereo cameras now have color recognition, EyeSight can detect when brake lights are activated in the vehicle ahead and manage even faster deceleration when needed. Safer tracking is made possible.
< Active Lane Keep System (New) *4 >
Lane Keeping Assist:
If EyeSight can recognize the lines on both sides of the lane when driving above approximately 65 km/h with Adaptive Cruise Control activated, it will assist steering so that the vehicle stays in the middle of the lane. This greatly reduces the burden on the driver and supports stable driving. The system determines whether the driver is operating the steering wheel or not and if not in operation, it will turn this feature off.
Lane Departure Prevention Assist:
If the vehicle is about to stray from the lane when driving over approximately 65 km/h on limited-access highways, EyeSight will display and sound the lane departure warning signal and apply torque to the steering wheel to correct its path back to the center of the lane in order to suppress lane deviation.
< Pre-Collision Reverse Throttle Management >
For instances such as when the system detects acute acceleration while the gear is in reverse, it displays and sounds a warning signal and restricts engine output to stop vehicle from backing up too abruptly.
If the system determines that collision with another vehicle or object in front of the vehicle is highly possible, the integrated vehicle control technology of the VDC will assist the driver in steering the vehicle to avoid the collision.
*3： The performance of these features may diminish due to road, weather and/or vehicle conditions.
*4： The names of new functions are tentative.
[ Levorg (Prototype) Major Specifications ] *All prototype specs; for reference only
Actually, that looks like a nice direction for the car to go. If they could just lower the hood and front clip so it is less like the new Mercedes look, it would be better. And putting an 8EAT / 6/7 MT in it would be great.
Subaru will launch the 2015 Levorg sports tourer in the UK this fall. Don’t look for the sporty wagon in U.S. showrooms.
If Subaru were to launch the new 2015 Levorg 2.0 GT-S sports tourer in the U.S. , it would likely be a huge hit with performance fans. The new sports tourer is launching in the UK and will be in dealer showrooms this fall. The sports wagon has been a big hit in its home country and should be a favorite with UK buyers who like their sports wagons. Performance fans in the U.S. can only look and not touch.
The new Subaru Levorg launched in Japan in June of last year and is now making its way to Europe. Levorg is the newest launch for the Japanese automaker and embodies the new generation of Subaru technology. The sporty wagon features the most advanced safety technology on the planet including the new generation EyeSight.
Two engine options for Levorg
Subaru launched Levorg in two models. The standard Levorg sports tourer is available along with the new sportier performance model LEVORG 2.0 GT-S. The standard model comes with a 1.6-liter horizontally-opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" Engine. The new smaller 1.6-liter engine produces an impressive 125kW (168 hp) and 250Nm (184 lb. ft torque).
Levorg 2.0 GT-S
Subaru also launched the new Levorg 2.0 GT-S and it’s powered by Subaru’s new 2.0-liter Boxer engine that made its debut in the 2014 Forester XT and now in the 2015 WRX and WRX STI Type S. The 2.0 engine will also be a boxer direct injection turbocharged "DIT" engine. Subaru announced the Levorg’s 2.0-liter engine would produce 221kW (296 hp) and torque that reaches 400N (295 lb. ft).
Levorg S Concept
Subaru unveiled the Levorg S Concept at the Tokyo Auto Salon that will likely never see production. It had special STI intake and exhaust parts that bump up the horsepower in the 2.0-liter direct injection turbo engine. It employed a WRX STI-sourced 6-speed manual gearbox and other unique STI parts such as a tower bar, sport-tuned suspension and aero body kit. This is one performance enthusiasts would like to see produced.
The 2015 Subaru Levorg sports tourer will make its way to the UK this fall. The Japanese automaker has no plans to bring the sporty wagon to the U.S. market. Performance fans in North America can look but not touch.
^
IN the US Mazda is notorious for doing base models only with the manual. Not giving us the cool optioins.
I wish Honda would do the Accord SPort manual with a sunroof.
At least you get Outbak with manual, we don't get htat either, even without options
Which is weird, cuz in USA takerate of Outback manual trans is pretty decent
^
IN the US Mazda is notorious for doing base models only with the manual. Not giving us the cool optioins.
I wish Honda would do the Accord SPort manual with a sunroof.
At least you get Outbak with manual, we don't get htat either, even without options
Which is weird, cuz in USA takerate of Outback manual trans is pretty decent
Interesting you mention that. Honda/Acura still appears to be the worst about options, but it's so annoying how many companies make it difficult to get the car you want.
^
IN the US Mazda is notorious for doing base models only with the manual. Not giving us the cool optioins.
I wish Honda would do the Accord SPort manual with a sunroof.
At least you get Outbak with manual, we don't get htat either, even without options
Which is weird, cuz in USA takerate of Outback manual trans is pretty decent
Except Mazda realized what people wanted & started offering 3 pedals on the nicer trims.
Mazda 3 can be had in every trim with a 6MT, IIRC.
Mazda 6 gets 6MT with the Sport & Touring trims
Shame the CX-5 only gets it with the 2.0 Sport.
The next Golf Sportwagen will have a 6MT for the TDI and 1.8T. Not sure of they are going to make a GTI/R version for America though.
The VW will be a better car than the Subaru too. I hate the way Japan is going with their designs right now.
Based on history, I would say the opposite...
The VW might drive better, but the Subaru is likely the overall better car
Subaru sells a compact wagon overseas related to the Impreza. It's called the Levorg, and on Wednesday at the Tokyo Motor Show the Japanese automaker rolled out a prototype previewing a redesigned Levorg due on sale in 2020.
While the redesigned Levorg isn't expected to reach the United States, elements of the vehicle may influence future models destined to be sold here, like the next WRX
Key among these is a new 1.8-liter turbocharged flat-4. The engine features direct injection and other fuel-saving technologies, and is said to balance acceleration and efficiency.
Subaru has just announced the end of the road for its beloved EJ20 series of engines, a version of which has powered generations of the WRX including the current model. Subaru rolled out a special WRX STI in Tokyo to mark the occasion. Perhaps a high-performance version of the new 1.8-liter boxer will end up in a future WRX, or at least in versions of the Impreza and Forester sold locally.
Few other details were revealed about the Levorg prototype, though we know it is based on the Subaru Global Platform that debuted in the latest Impreza. It's also packed with Subaru's latest electronic driver assist features including a surround-view monitoring system that relies on four radar sensors and a new wide-angle camera.
Subaru will transform the next generation of the Levorg into what will essentially be a wagon version of the WRX, according to a rumor from CarExpert in Australia. Now the bad news: at the moment, this report potentially only applies to the land Down Under, meaning folks elsewhere wouldn't get this speedy, all-wheel-drive estate.
"The Levorg has proven itself as a niche performance wagon, and will morph into something slightly different in its next generation," a spokesperson from Subaru Australia told CarExpert.
To make this possibility of a revived WRX wagon even more tantalizing, this performance-focused, next-gen Levorg reportedly debuts in Australia in the fourth quarter of 2021. It allegedly uses the same 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that's going into the new WRX. The mill makes around 286 horsepower (213 kilowatts), according to Car Expert.
The latest Levorg already debuted in Japan. The wagon is in its second-generation and sports a look that's very reminiscent of what we're expecting from the new WRX, just with an extended roof and hatchback. There, power comes from a 1.8-liter turbocharged boxer four-cylinder making 174 hp (130 kW) and 221 lb-ft (300 Nm) of torque. A CVT is the only gearbox choice.
There is an STI Sport version of the new Levorg that gets ZF-sourced adaptive dampers and multiple drive modes. There's also a slightly different grille, lower fascia, an STI-branded exhaust outlet, and 18-inch wheels.
Subaru last offered a WRX wagon in the US for the 2007 model year. There was also the Saab 9-2X available in 2005 and 2006 that was essentially Impreza with tweaked styling. The range-topping Aero trim shared an engine with the WRX.
One of the lesser-known Subaru products is the Levorg, essentially a wagon version of the Impreza. It has been around since 2014 and has largely been confined to the Japanese market. The first-generation model was sold in select European markets while the current car, launched in 2020, can be had in New Zealand as the WRX GT Wagon and in Australia as the WRX Sportwagon. This new Levorg Layback is a JDM-only affair, at least for the time being.
In the lead up to the car's official debut today in the Land of the Rising Sun, Subaru said it would be an SUV version of the wagon. However, this new Layback derivative is basically the same wagon with a raised suspension and plastic body cladding. The jacked-up stance has increased ground clearance to 7.9 inches (200 millimeters) or 2.2 in (55 mm) more than before.
At 187.8 inches (4770 millimeters) long, 71.7 in (1820 mm) wide, and 61.8 in (1,570 mm) tall, it's 0.6 in (15 mm) longer, 1 in (25 mm) wider, and 2.8 in (70 mm) taller than the regular Levorg. The cargo capacity remains unchanged, at 19.8 cubic feet (561 liters). The adventurous wagon on stilts rides on 18-inch wheels with 225/55 R18 all-season tires.
Motivation is provided by a turbocharged 1.8-liter gasoline engine producing 174 horsepower and 221 pound-feet (300 Newton-meters) of torque channeled to the Subaru Symmetrical AWD system through a CVT Lineartronic.
The 2024 Levorg Layback makes us of a next-generation EyeSight system equipped with a wide-angle camera as standard equipment. Customers also get a Harman Kardon sound setup, an 11.6-inch infotainment, and a 12.3-inch digital driver's display. In addition, owners have the possibility to remotely control AC to pre-condition the vehicle's interior via a smartphone app.
Subaru also sells the Levorg at home in Japan as an STI Sport model with a more aggressive body kit and some mechanical upgrades, although it’s not a fully fledged STI product. At the beginning of the year, it launched an STI Sport Performance special edition limited to 500 units and equipped with 19-inch BBS forged wheels, a transmission oil cooler, a strut tower brace, and a flexible draw stiffener. The spicy wagon also received 225/40 ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, Recaro front bucket seats, and a variety of black accents.
Depending on the market, the Levorg is also available with a larger 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 256 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm). It too works with a CVT sending power to both axles.
11-19-2013, 09:58 PM
Hope this makes its way state side.
@ the term, "Honda'd"...
