A production version of the new Subaru WRX is expected to be revealed at the Los Angeles motor show in November – but its presence in the UK remains in doubt.
Subaru brought its concept version of the new WRX to the Frankfurt motor show, and Subaru product chief Toshio Masuda confirmed to Autocar that the concept would spawn “a production car on which it is based”.
For production, the WRX is likely to keep the rear doors of the concept to become a four-door saloon rather than a coupé. The more rakish profile is also set to remain.
The powertrain remains unclear, although hybrid would appear unlikely as Masuda suggested Subaru’s hybrid technology was some way from coming to market at an affordable price. However, the model will remain all-wheel drive and be offered with a manual gearbox, he confirmed.
The new WRX will be based on a new platform, which Masuda describes as “a very firm and rigid structure”. There will also be a reduction in weight over the current WRX, which should also improve the performance according to Subaru's product chief.
Officially, there is no decision from Subaru in the UK as to whether or not to import the car. It's understood a UK delegation will soon head to Japan to see it, and discuss a plan on whether to put it on sale here.
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