SUBARU

Subaru Levorg Layback gets S:HEV hybrid version

Subaru has introduced an updated Levorg model family for the Japanese market. The standard Levorg remains unchanged in appearance, but the Layback crossover modification now has a hybrid version with a different design.

Recall that the Subaru Levorg wagon in its current second generation has been on the market since 2020, while the Layback version, with its distinctive appearance, arrived in 2023. Now the time has come for the planned upgrade.

While we do get Impreza models here in the States to a degree, the nameplate isn’t as diverse as it is in other markets. For instance, our Crosstrek is basically a lifted, Outback-ified five-door Impreza hatchback.

The WRX is also basically an up-spec Impreza sedan. Yes, we still get a standard Impreza five-door hatchback. We’re very fortunate to get it, considering hatchbacks and wagons in general are very niche and don’t come with the same demand as SUVs.

Subaru dropped the standard Impreza sedan from the American market a while back, all to consolidate and simplify the range and optimize sales. It continues to refrain from selling a regular Impreza wagon here in the States.

All that is to say, we’re lusting over the Levorg from the other side of the planet. Especially now.

The current Levorg has been around since 2020. It’s old enough to constitute a replacement with a next-gen model. But that’s still apparently a little bit away.

So Subaru rolled out another update for the Levorg in Japan. And the biggest one is the addition of a hybrid powertrain for the Levorg Layback wagon for the first time ever.

Subaru also restyled the Levorg Layback’s front end, which could provide a clue for what we could expect when our Impreza-based Crosstrek and WRX models get redesigned.

According to Subaru’s latest release, the new Levorg Layback S:HEV hybrid gains the same powertrain as other gas-electric models sold elsewhere. That lot includes our own Forester, Outback and Crosstrek hybrid models.

The Levorg Layback is basically Japan’s equivalent to our Crosstrek. Except, it’s slightly larger as the Layback is based on the regular Levorg wagon.

The Layback essentially raises the Levorg wagon’s ground clearance, standardizes all-wheel drive, adds plastic wheel well cladding and more.

The hybrid powertrain consists of Subaru’s venerable “FB25D” boxer-four. When paired with an electric motor, total system output is around 194 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque.

The Subaru Levorg Layback has received a S:HEV hybrid version and a slightly different appearance. This 5-door model has a new radiator grille, headlights and front bumper. The hood is devoid of air intakes. The Subaru Levorg Layback S:HEV is available in two trim levels: Premium EX and Premium Black EX. The latter, as can be inferred from the name, is decorated with black details. Several optional design packages are also available for the hybrid to change the body equipment or the radiator grille.

The Levorg Layback's S:HEV powertrain is taken from the petrol-electric versions of the Subaru Crosstrek and Subaru Forester. The system includes a 2.5-litre naturally aspirated boxer engine (160 hp), a starter-generator, an 88 kW (120 hp) electric motor and a modest 1.1 kWh battery. All Levorg versions come standard with all-wheel drive. As before, the classic versions are equipped with a 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol boxer engine (177 hp) and a Lineartronic CVT transmission.

Subaru has also revised its SI-Drive engine management system, which allows for adjustment of throttle response and transmission behavior, resulting in better response during acceleration and cornering. The Levorg and Levorg Layback, models with all-petrol engines, remain unchanged on the outside. The interior offers refreshed materials and a new "smart" rearview mirror, to which should be added an improved MySubaru Connect system for easier car finding in a parking lot.

The hybrid crossover station wagon measures 4,735 mm in length, compared to 4,770 mm for the traditional Subaru Levorg Layback with a boxer engine. The height has been reduced by 20 mm, to 1,550 mm, as has the ground clearance, which is 20 mm lower (180 mm). The petrol-powered Subaru Levorg costs 3,630,000 yen (19,655 euros), the Layback version starts at 4,059,000 yen (21,975 euros), while the price of the hybrid Levorg Layback S:HEV will be announced in July, when it is expected to hit the market.

Autonews