The Subaru WRX Concept ain’t no sissified Impreza

Lie to me and and say this Subaru WRX Concept isn’t sexy. Say hallelujah brothers and sisters! I think Subaru design is finally getting it, I think they are finding an aesthetic that resonates with their most precious youth market. Recently unveiled at the 2013 New York International Auto Show, the Subaru WRX Concept is a promise fulfilled. It’s stunning.

The 245/40ZR20 Dunlops look mighty fine enclosing sick looking, 20-inch, forged alloy wheels.

Very little is known about the Subaru WRX Concept. A majority of this vehicle is an exterior design study that Subaru is using to measure consumer reaction. I think they have a hit on their hands, but I have already heard a grumble about the front fenders looking too much like the Nissan GTR’s.

The Subaru WRX Concept has a wheelbase that’s 4.6-inches longer than the current model, which will help for high-speed stability and ride. The overall length of 178-inches and 74.4-inches wide gives the WRX Concept a larger vehicle to build upon. Those are different dimensions than the Subaru Impreza-based WRX.  The question is: what platform is it?

It’s a good chance that the Subaru WRX Concept is based on a lengthened BRZ/FT-86/FR-S platform. Yep, that’s right, Subaru developed that platform so it could be utilized with a longer, four-door setup. If that’s the case, it’s not too far of a stretch to plan the space for a turbocharged version of the BRZ’s 2-liter boxer engine and a AWD transfer case. Utilizing this platform would indicate a desire for a lower center of gravity, lighter weight and racier base over the older Impreza’s platform.

Is a 300 horsepower WRX and 325 hp STI in the cards? I hear that the 2-liter could make over 400 hp which would be friggin’ amazing.

Keep in mind: this is ALL speculation. That 2-liter boxer is high compression, not the easiest thing to tinker with – I wager. Still, if you look at the Subaru WRX Concept and the new thinking it represents, anything looks possible.

My god – it’s good looking.

Check out this fun, off road video with the Subaru Crosstrek XV!\

How do you say, “Build it right now Subaru… don’t change a damn thing!” in Japanese?