More Next-Generation Subaru WRX And STI Details Come From New Levorg Reveal

Subaru made significant changes to the second-generation Levorg sports wagon that the Japanese automaker sells in Japan, Australia, and Europe. We get new information from the all-new model on what Subaru has planned for the next-generation 2022 WRX and STI. We get an idea about exterior styling, new interior upgrades, next-generation EyeSight X and driving dynamics.

Exterior styling

Recent spy photos of the WRX reveal similar changes the automaker made to the Levorg, so don’t expect a radical new design. Subaru has never brought radical changes to any new model. We don’t expect Subaru to depart from its more conservative ways when they launch the next-generation model. Just look at the new Forester and Outback.

Interior upgrades

The new WRX and STI will also come with a large tablet-style 11.6-inch center display touch-screen borrowed from the newly-remodeled Subaru Outback. The old hard buttons are going away, making way for the new multi-media interface that will also offer Apple Car Play and Android Auto integration. Knobs still control the radio volume and tuning.

The second-generation Levorg images reveal the old hand brake is gone and replaced by a space-saving electronic brake located behind the gear shift. The storage bin has been moved forward with two cup holders directly in front, and the A/C vents repositioned. There is also a new chrome accent trim that runs the length of the dashboard.

Next-generation EyeSight X

The newly-remodeled Levorg sports wagon is the first model to get the next-generation EyeSight X that offers 360-degree cameras. The stereo cameras are on all four corners of the car, and the leading-edge technology offers 360-degree sensing by combining the front and rear radars. The new EyeSight X uses 3D high-precision map data with road information for each lane. It will come on CVT equipped WRX models.

Driving dynamics
Performance enthusiasts will see noticeable changes in the 2022 WRX and STI’s driving dynamics. The car will ride on the Subaru Global Platform and Subaru says the Levorg gets a new X platform with a full inner frame structure “that enhances the skeletal continuity of the entire body and a structural adhesive that suppresses minute deformation, achieving further rigidity and weight reduction.”

The new underpinnings will reduce vibrations and produce a smoother ride quality. The body and chassis will be 70-100 percent more rigid which will translate to improved steering response. The increased rigidity of the suspension mounting will reduce body roll compared to current models.

The sport-tuned WRX and performance-tuned STI will also have a lower center of gravity improving driving dynamics in the corners producing a more dynamic ride. Subaru says the new global platform underpinning all new Subaru models improves crash energy absorption by 40 percent over previous generation models. Expect the same in the 2022 Subaru WRX and STI.

What engine will the 2022 Subaru WRX and STI have?

The latest rumors say the STI is getting the new FA24 2.4-liter direct-injection turbocharged Boxer with plenty of upgraded internals from Subaru Tecnica International for added horsepower. Reports say it could have close to 400 horsepower.

The WRX could get the same 2.4-liter turbocharged powerplant but de-tuned, or a new Levorg-sourced 1.8-liter direct-injection turbocharged Boxer with more horsepower than the current generation performance sports car.

When will the 2022 Subaru WRX and STI arrive?

New reports say the all-new 2022 Subaru WRX and STI have been delayed because of the COVID global pandemic. Look for the next-generation 2022 Subaru WRX to arrive next spring, and the 2022 WRX STI to be uncovered late 2021 with a launch in early 2022.

You Might Also Like: Why The Subaru WRX STI Shines Bright Ahead Of A Major Remodel And What's Next

Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. 

Subaru Report - We’ve got you covered! Check back tomorrow for more unique, informative SUBARU news, reviews, and previews you can trust.
 
Leave your comments below, share the article with friends and tweet it out to your followers!
 
Photo credit: Subaru