Subaru Levorg Layback debuts as SUV-styled wagon with increased ground clearance and design tweaks

Subaru has unveiled a new version of the Levorg wagon, which is called Layback. Exclusive to the Japanese market (JDM) for now, the Layback version features a raised suspension and plastic body panels that give it an SUV-like appearance.

Introduced in 2014, the Subaru Levorg has primarily been offered in Japan. While the first-generation Levorg found its way into select European markets, the latest model, released in 2020, is available in New Zealand as the WRX GT Wagon and in Australia as the WRX Sportwagon. The newest addition, the Levorg Layback, is exclusively sold in Japan for now.

Before its official unveiling today in Japan, Subaru described the Layback as an SUV variant of the existing wagon. However, what sets it apart is essentially its elevated suspension and added plastic cladding, not a complete redesign. The heightened position adds 55 mm (2.2 inches), bringing the total ground clearance to 200 millimeters (7.9 inches).

In terms of dimensions, the Layback measures 4,770 mm (187.8 inches) in length, 1,820 mm (71.7 inches) in width, and 1,570 mm (61.8 inches) in height. That makes it 15 mm (0.6 inches) longer, 25 mm (1 inch) wider, and 70 mm (2.8 inches) taller than the standard Levorg. The cargo space stays the same at 561 liters (19.8 cubic feet). The car sits on 18-inch wheels wrapped in 225/55 R18 all-season tires.

Power comes from a turbocharged 1.8-liter petrol engine that generates 174 horsepower and 300 Newton-meters (221 lb-ft) of torque. This is funneled through a CVT Lineartronic into Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system.

The 2024 Levorg Layback features an advanced EyeSight system with a standard wide-angle camera. Additional features include a Harman Kardon audio system, an 11.6-inch infotainment screen, and a 12.3-inch digital dashboard. A smartphone app allows owners to remotely control the air conditioning to pre-condition the vehicle's interior.

In the Japanese market, Subaru also offers the Levorg as an STI Sport variant. This version has an aggressive body kit and some mechanical enhancements but is not a full STI model. Earlier this year, a limited STI Sport Performance edition was released, capped at 500 units and featuring 19-inch BBS forged wheels, a transmission oil cooler, a strut tower brace, and a flexible draw stiffener. It also comes with 225/40 ZR19 Michelin Pilot Sport 5 tires, Recaro front seats, and multiple black accents.

In some markets, a more powerful 2.4-liter turbo engine option is also available for the Levorg, producing 256 hp and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, mated to a CVT that directs power to both front and rear axles.

Source: Subaru