Levorg STI reportedly on its way ... but will it come to New Zealand?
Video and images have surfaced showing Subaru's latest STI-iteration of the Levorg wagon, as Subaru prepare for its own imminent New Zealand launch of the standard Levorg.
It's reported that the model will only be available in Japan. Opportunities for people to import cars independently or through a supplier from Japan are an option (one being exploited fruitfully by numerous people who have recently imported Honda's latest Civic Type R).
The Levorg STI speculation comes as the fourth-generation Impreza nears the end of its life cycle — the fifth generation having been recently revealed at the New York Motor Show.
The Levorg STI will reportedly be based on the Levorg S concept that the marque unveiled in early 2015, at the Tokyo Auto Salon.
The concept is understood to have the turbocharged 2.0-litre boxer engine from the current WRX under the bonnet, with support from a six-speed manual gearbox. While confirmation has yet to be made on what will power the production model, it's likely that the 2.0-litre engine will be replaced by the 2.5-litre unit from the current STI.
Photo / Subaru
The video also shows Bilstein's iconic yellow suspension components matched with pink STI spings, meaning this is definitely not just an exercise in upgrading trim and slapping an STI badge on the grille.
The concept also featured BBS wheels wrapped with Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres, and lashings of carbon fibre, and traditional red STI highlights.
As the fifth-generation Impreza approaches, the Levorg STI shapes up as a fitting send off to the platform. Let's hope it finds its way to New Zealand.