The Subaru enthusiast community has taken notice of an interesting prototype that may hint at future changes in the brand’s lineup.
Disappearance of a Characteristic Detail
Subaru WRX, Levorg, and Layback models have always had a functional hood scoop that not only cooled the intercooler but was also a hallmark of the turbocharged engine. Therefore, the appearance of a camouflaged prototype with a completely smooth hood has raised legitimate questions about what is now hidden underneath.
Discovery in Japan
A photo of the camouflaged wagon was published on the X network by user @HEV_Sanpuri, who spotted the car in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. The front end, judging by the headlights and grille, is borrowed from the Subaru Levorg Layback crossover. However, the hood has no openings or bulges for air.
What’s this?
A test car?
Expected Updates and Hybrid
Previous reports indicated that a significantly updated Levorg could debut in the fall of 2026 and even be considered a new generation. Insiders link the main change precisely to the addition of a hybrid option, which is hinted at by the prototype without a hood scoop. The hybrid system will likely combine a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine with Toyota technologies, as already implemented in the Forester and Crosstrek, where the total power is 194 hp.
Current and Future Powertrains
Currently, the Levorg and Layback are offered with a 1.8-liter turbo engine producing 174 hp or a more powerful 2.4-liter turbo unit with 271 hp. In both cases, power is sent to all four wheels via a CVT and the proprietary Symmetrical AWD all-wheel-drive system. The Japanese publication Creative Trend reports that the base engine may be replaced by a new hybrid system. However, the more powerful 2.4-liter turbo engine will likely remain in the next generation of the wagon. If this happens, the familiar hood scoop will most likely return on non-hybrid versions.
Impact on the WRX
The Levorg and Layback wagons are closely related to the WRX sedan, and in Australia, the Levorg is even sold as the WRX Sportswagon. Currently, Subaru’s hybrid system is focused on efficiency. However, it is possible that the brand will experiment with more powerful solutions for future top models, including, perhaps, the next WRX. Several months ago, Subaru presented two STI prototypes: one fully electric and the other with a traditional boxer engine.
Interestingly, the camouflaged Subaru was parked next to a Toyota Crown Crossover, which may not be a coincidence. The Crown could have served as a benchmark, especially considering that its most powerful hybrid all-wheel-drive version combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with two electric motors and produces 344 hp. This may indicate Subaru’s ambitions to create not only an economical but also a dynamic hybrid. The transition to hybrid technologies for part of the model range is a logical step in the context of global trends, but the preservation of powerful turbocharged engines should satisfy traditional brand enthusiasts who value characteristic dynamics and design. The future will show whether Subaru manages to find a balance between environmental friendliness and sporting spirit.