New Subaru WRX emerges

Subaru has released its first official teaser image of the all-new Subaru WRX, providing us with a good look at the hotly-anticipated new-generation performance car.

Previously caught testing in the US, the 2021 Subaru WRX will launch Down Under in the final quarter of this year after its unveiling in the coming weeks.

From our earlier glimpse of the camouflaged WRX, we already know it will look like a sportier take on the Subaru Levorg that was first revealed in 2019.

Carryover styling cues from previous-generation models include the trademark bonnet scoop, wider front and rear fenders, side skirts and quad exhaust tips at the rear.

Providing some cues how a pumped-up Levorg might look, Subaru has in the past confirmed that the 2017 Viziv Performance Concept will inspire the look of the next-gen WRX.

Under the bonnet, the 2021 Subaru WRX is expected to produce 213kW and 412Nm of torque from its all-new FA24 2.4-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol boxer engine.

Once launched, Japan’s Best Car Web says the Subaru WRX STI that will follow in 2022 will produce a Civic Type R-humbling 294kW and 490Nm from a more advanced development of the FA24 mill, thanks to stronger pistons, con rods and other internals.

Interestingly, both engines are set to miss out on electrification, meaning they could be ruled out for Europe if they fail to meet strict emission regulations.

Other details that have come to light for Subaru WRX buyers include a choice of either manual or automatic transmission, however the latter is tipped to be a development of the current continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Those hoping for a sweet-shifting and more engaging conventional auto like in the Ford Focus ST, or perhaps a dual-clutch auto favoured by the Volkswagen Golf GTI and Golf R, will be disappointed.

Subaru Australia’s senior management team has promised the new WRX will get improvements in “everything from powerplants, transmissions, all the things that the Rex fans really crave”.

It’s not yet clear if the WRX STI will offer an automatic gearbox or remain a six-speed manual as has traditionally been the case.

Best Car Web is reporting the new 2021 Subaru WRX will be 55mm longer, 55mm wider and 25mm lower than the current model, riding on a 20mm-longer wheelbase.

That would make it 4650mm long, 1850mm wide and 1450mm tall, with a 2670mm wheelbase, and could potentially see the WRX move up into the mid-size passenger car class.

Just like the new Subaru Levorg, expect the next-gen Subaru WRX to adopt premium cabin upgrades including an 11.6-inch central touch-screen and 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster.

Stay tuned for more teasers in the build up to the WRX's full unveiling.