- A Subaru wagon was spotted testing without its signature hood scoop.
- This could indicate a hybrid setup similar to the Crosstrek and Forester.
- The next Levorg is expected to retain a pure gasoline powertrain option.
The Subaru WRX, Levorg, and Layback have long worn their functional hood scoops with pride, feeding cool air to the intercooler while also signaling that something turbocharged sits underneath. So when a prototype appears without that familiar feature, Subaru fans understandably start wondering what might be powering it.
A single photo of a camouflaged wagon was shared on X by user @HEV_Sanpuri, who spotted it in Gunma Prefecture, Japan. From the headlights and grille, the front end appears to be borrowed from the Subaru Levorg Layback crossover. The hood, however, tells a different story, as it is completely smooth, with no scoop, bumps, or cooling intakes.
More: Subaru Says STI Is “Not Dead”, But Its Boxer May Be
According to earlier reports, a heavily updated Levorg could debut in fall 2026 and may be marketed as a new generation. Insiders say the big change will be the addition of a hybrid powertrain option, something the pictured prototype seems to hint at.
なにこれw
テストカー？ pic.twitter.com/nro3CwlzXh— 🗻算プリ🗿 (@HEV_Sanpuri) February 20, 2026
Lead image X /HEV_Sanpuri
The self-charging hybrid powertrain will likely pair a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine with Toyota hybrid technology, reflecting the close collaboration between the two Japanese automakers. A similar setup already appears in the Forester and Crosstrek, where it delivers a combined 194 hp (145 kW / 195 PS).
More: Subaru Asks Drivers If They Still Crave A Stick-Shift SUV
Interestingly, the camouflaged Subaru is parked next to a Toyota Crown Crossover, which may not be a coincidence. The Crown could be serving as a benchmark, particularly since its most potent AWD-capable hybrid setup combines a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine with dual electric motors to produce 344 hp (257 kW / 349 PS).
The Levorg and Layback are currently offered with a 1.8-liter turbocharged engine producing 174 hp (130 kW / 177 PS), or a punchier 2.4-liter turbo that delivers 271 hp (202 kW / 275 PS). In both cases, power is sent to all four wheels through a CVT and Subaru’s trademark Symmetrical AWD system.
More: Subaru Might Finally Be Ready To Fix The One Thing Holding Back The Outback
Japanese outlet Creative Trend reports that the entry-level engine could be dropped in favor of the new hybrid system. The more potent 2.4-liter turbo, however, may survive into the next-generation wagon. If that happens, the familiar hood scoop would likely return on the non-electrified versions.
What About The WRX?
The Levorg and Layback wagons are closely related to the WRX sedan, and in Australia the Levorg is even sold as the WRX Sportswagon.
For now, Subaru’s hybrid setup leans heavily toward efficiency. Still, it would not be surprising to see the brand experiment with something more performance-focused for future halo models, possibly including the next WRX. A few months ago, Subaru revealed two STI prototypes, one fully electric and the other powered by a traditional boxer engine.
