Nothing can escape electrification these days, and
that includes the Subaru WRX. Autocar reports that the next-generation WRX,
which is due in 2020, will have electric boost and much of the Viziv
Performance Concept’s looks. It will also be a “driver’s car”.
Subaru design chief Mamoru Ishii told the UK car mag
that the Viziv Performance Concept from the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show has received
good feedback, suggesting he has confidence in leaving much of the showcar’s
aggressive looks unchanged for the production next-gen WRX.
Ishii explained that he would like to see Viziv
Performance design themes such as the taut body shape offset by cues such as
the (angular) wheel arches and bonnet scoop – elements that he considers part
of Subaru’s DNA – make it to production. “We have built up this tradition with
the Legacy, Impreza and WRX. We want it to look fast even when it is parked,”
he said.
Subaru’s boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel
drive are twin trademarks, but only AWD is non-negotiable. “Four-wheel drive is
critical to the power and performance levels our customers expect, but on the
engine we have more freedom,” he said. The Subaru Global Platform that
underpins the current Impreza and XV was designed to accommodate hybrid,
plug-in hybrid and electric powertrains as well as regular petrol boxers.
