Subaru Concept Previews Next-Gen WRX

Subaru Corp. says the Viziv Performance Concept it unveiled Wednesday at the Tokyo auto show signals the design of future production models, which analysts believe will start with the next-generation WRX sports sedan due in 2020.

Measuring 182 inches from bumper to bumper, the compact sports sedan concept is the same size as the current WRX. But it features a more aggressive front end with a forward-leaning stance, lowered ride height, muscular fenders and flared wheel arches.

Small fins protrude slightly from the top of the wheel arches to boost aerodynamics and handling. Subaru says the design will be incorporated into future production models. The concept also gets perforated air vents on the rear of the wheel arches to enhance wind flow around the car.

The production version of the car is expected to include a range of advanced driver-assist systems that Subaru is developing. These include next-generation radar sensors, high-definition mapping and Level 2 semi-autonomous driving capability.