Advanced Tourer Concept the next WRX?
Hybridised but sporty wagon a likely starter for 2015 Subaru WRXThe next Subaru WRX is not expected to be based on the Impreza, as we've reported in the past. An insider has recently informed Motor Trend magazine that it will instead grow in size, closely resembling the Advanced Tourer Concept (pictured) previewed at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show.
The Subaru source stated that the aesthetics and architecture of the next WRX will differ greatly from the Impreza-based sedan and hatch it has previously been based on, likely adopting many of the styling cues seen on the 2011 concept, including the wagon-esque body style.
It’s unclear as to whether the new WRX will feature the hybridised 1.6-litre Boxer engine found under the bonnet of the show car, and in the interests of keeping costs down we suggest the stylish scissor-style doors will also get the flick. More likely is that the new (FA) 2.0-litre direct-injected mill found powering the upcoming Subaru BRZ will be turbocharged, delivering approximately 320hp (227kW). The insider told Motor Trend that the Toyota-sourced origins of the design were one reason it would steer clear of the technology presented in the concept model.
"There are those engineers who do support the hybrid idea, not least because the hybrid we are developing might employ some Toyota componentry. But the actual hybrid unit we are using is far lighter [than Toyota's THS-II] single-clutch design," explained the source. "Expect to see more model downsizing and hybridisation, while chassis will become even lighter and boast a higher quality finish."
The source said that the move is part of Subaru’s “Motion V” initiative, which will see WRX aimed at a more mature market set, though hastened to add that the model would retain its hooligan heritage, continuing with stiff suspension, manual transmission and turbocharged engine held in such high regard by stalwart buyers.
The model is reported to be fitted with the choice of six-speed manual or Lineartronic continuously variable transmission found in the recently released Liberty.
Given Subaru’s model cycle timing we’re likely to see the new WRX arrive to coincide with the Tokyo Motor Show in 2015.
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