Update: The two images you see below are the supposed leaked renderings of the full production 2015 WRX. Speculation is running rampant right now regarding the validity of the renderings. Whether they’re the creation of a fanboy or not, we really like the subtle update of the bodylines. Check back soon for more updates.
Subaru is set to unveil its next-gen 2015 WRX rally-inspired sedan at the 2013 LA Auto Show next week. And we are very, very excited by the prospect.
The WRX is based upon the Subaru’s all-wheel-drive Impreza compact sedan. While the Impreza is a bit utilitarian, we love it a lot – especially the taller XV Crosstrek variant. It might lack any real tech but it’s still a great little knockabout that can handle just about anything you can toss at it.
The 2015 WRX will hopefully pickup where its plucky predecessors left off. We suspect the next-gen WRX will be powered by a turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter Boxer engine that propels the rear-drive BRZ sports car. With a turbo fitted to it, though, we suspect the new WRX to make near 270 horsepower, which, like always, will be piped to all four wheels.
The current, 2013 WRX has an older 2.5-liter turbo engine that makes 265 hp. While Suby could bore-out the new 2.0 to 2.5-liters, to match displacement with the outgoing model, we think it’ll leave the motor as-is. This way, the new WRX will have more commonality with the base Impreza and – if Subaru decides to re-enter the World Rally Championship (WRC) – it won’t have to fit another engine to the WRX.
We loved the WRX concept that Subaru unveiled earlier this year at the New York Auto Show. We subsequently learned, though, that the next-gen WRX wouldn’t follow its concept’s lead. This is disappointing for sure. But based upon the teaser picture above, we like very much where the stouthearted little Japanese automaker has done with the design.
We likely won’t know more of the 2015 Subaru WRX until its press conference on the 20th. Just in case, though, be sure to check back often for this and more 2013 LA Auto Show coverage.
(Secondary photo credit: Carspies)
