Of all the Subarus suitable for an STI makeover, the Levorg probably wouldn't be first choice. Still, that was likely said about the Forester once upon a time, and that turned out pretty well. So who's to say Subaru shouldn't have another go at the fast off-road estate thing?
The Levorg Prototype STI Sport has just been revealed at Tokyo, with very little information accompanying it. Apart from quite a lot on the "Grand Touring Philosophy" of Subaru, how cars like the Levorg help passengers, "go further with more comfort, safety and enjoyment that makes them feel like time is flying". Right...
What we do know is that the Levorg STI features electronically controlled dampers for the very first time in a Subaru, as well as another debut: drive modes. Evidently a gimmick rejected by Subaru for a very long time - the E39 M5 had a Sport mode in the late 1990s - the time is apparently now for a 'Drive Mode Select' that adjust the behaviour of the powertrain, all-wheel drive system, steering and those new dampers. Subaru says the new system "can provide more engagement and enjoyment to the driver."
And that's about all they're saying for now, although this isn't a truly barmy Subaru concept by any means. Given there's already been a Levorg STI of the previous generation as well, you'd have to assume this one we'll make production in short order. And, if we're really lucky, maybe one or two will eventually be imported, so STI fans in the UK - stop laughing - can see just what they're being denied.
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