The Subaru Levorg Layback, a wagon variant of the Impreza, has been in existence since 2014 and primarily served the Japanese market. While the first generation had limited availability in select European markets, the current iteration, launched in 2020, is sold as the WRX GT Wagon in New Zealand and the WRX Sportwagon in Australia. Currently, the Levorg Layback is exclusively available in Japan.
Leading up to its official unveiling in Japan, Subaru had hinted that this would be an SUV version of the wagon. However, the Layback version is essentially the same wagon with a raised suspension and rugged plastic body cladding. The elevated stance provides a ground clearance of 7.9 inches (200 millimeters), an increase of 2.2 inches (55 mm) compared to its predecessor.
Measuring 187.8 inches (4770 millimeters) in length, 71.7 inches (1820 mm) in width, and 61.8 inches (1,570 mm) in height, the Layback is slightly larger than the regular Levorg, with a 0.6-inch (15 mm) increase in length, a 1-inch (25 mm) increase in width, and a 2.8-inch (70 mm) increase in height. Cargo capacity remains the same at 19.8 cubic feet (561 liters). This adventure-ready wagon rides on 18-inch wheels fitted with 225/55 R18 all-season tires.
Powering the 2024 Levorg Layback is a turbocharged 1.8-liter gasoline engine delivering 174 horsepower and 221 pound-feet (300 Newton-meters) of torque, which is transmitted to the Subaru Symmetrical AWD system through a CVT Lineartronic transmission.
The 2024 Levorg Layback comes equipped with the next-generation EyeSight system, featuring a wide-angle camera as standard equipment. It also boasts a Harman Kardon sound system, an 11.6-inch infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display. Additionally, owners can use a smartphone app to remotely control the vehicle’s AC for pre-conditioning the interior.
In Japan, Subaru offers the Levorg as an STI Sport model, featuring a sportier body kit and some mechanical enhancements, though it’s not a full-fledged STI product. Earlier in the year, they introduced a limited edition STI Sport Performance variant, restricted to 500 units. This model is equipped with 19-inch BBS forged wheels, a transmission oil cooler, a strut tower brace, and a flexible draw stiffener. The sporty wagon also features 225/40 ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, Recaro front bucket seats, and various black accents.
Depending on the market, the Levorg is also available with a larger 2.4-liter turbocharged engine producing 256 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. This version also utilizes a CVT to send power to both axles.
Source: Subaru