cars news 10: Subaru Teases VIZIV Tourer Concept

Subaru teased its latest concept ahead of its world debut at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 6. Called the VIZIV Tourer Concept, we expect this model to be a wagon, possibly previewing an upcoming Impreza wagon or even a WRX wagon.

The Tourer Concept comes after the VIZIV Performance Concept that debuted at the 2017 Tokyo Motor Show and the VIZIV Performance STI Concept that debuted at Tokyo Auto Salon, previewing the next-generation WRX and STI, respectively.

With only a shadowy image of the rear driver-side taillight, Subaru is not giving us much, but we can see a body panel gap that wraps around the taillights and highly raked rear glass–possible signs that this concept is a wagon. The previous concepts did not have these design characteristics. On top of that, the Tourer name could also be a hint that this is a D-pillared variant. The taillights are still C shaped but the design has been tweaked a little.

If it is a WRX wagon, Subie fans around the globe should rejoice as that body style hasn’t been offered since 2007. The third-generation WRX came in a hatchback version, but by the next generation the model was only available as a sedan. It’s also possible the concept previews the next-generation Levorg, a hot Legacy wagon variant that never made it to the U.S.

Engine details have yet to be released, but we expect the next STI to pack some kind of performance hybrid powertrain. The next WRX and STI will be built on the new Subaru Global Platform that the Subaru Impreza and Crosstrek already ride on.

Let’s hope Subaru sticks closely to these impressive looking concepts when the final product is finished. We were slightly disappointed when the current-generation WRX didn’t look much like the WRX concept from a few years ago.

But don’t start calling your local Subaru dealership yet. The next-generation Subaru WRX and STI are still at least two and a half years away from reaching our shores, and there is a chance that wagon variants will stay far away from the SUV- and crossover-loving North American market.

Subaru VIZIV Performance Concept and Performance STI Concept pictured below.

Source: Subaru