Subaru plans to offer some insight into its future design and technology direction with the Viziv concept.
It’s clearly auto show season, at least judging by the flood of teaser images we’ve been receiving – including the Subaru Viziv Concept the Japanese maker plans to formally unveil in Geneva.
No, that’s not some Swiss tongue-twister. The name is shorthand for what Subaru dubs its “Vision for Innovation,” which, it adds, “expresses a future vision for innovation, and a concept car suggesting the brand’s direction.”
We’ve been getting a number of signals from Subaru lately suggesting it’s looking to do more than just update its existing line-up – though the latest Subaru Forester model will also make its European debut next month at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show. But Subaru has long hoped to move its brand image a bit up-market while maintaining its reputation for go-anywhere durability.
The Viziv Concept’s hexagonal grille and LED accent lights aren’t exactly revolutionary. They bring to mind products as diverse as the new Ford Fusion and any number of the latest luxury cars. But the sharply creased hoodline and the sumptuous curve of the flared fender suggest this crossover is designed to make us forget the awkwardness of the maker’s less-than-beloved B9 Tribeca – which it just might serve to replace.
We know that Subaru has been pushing to upgrade its image when it comes to technology, as well. It recently launched the new EyeSight system which uses stereoscopic camera technology to perform a range of features including Lane Departure Warning and Collision Avoidance. The maker has also been hinting that its first hybrid drivetrain is soon to arrive.
The terse release accompanying the teaser image of the Subaru Viziv Concept also suggests it will embody the “Enjoyment of Peace and Mind.” So, along with the sense of security provided by EyeSight we can anticipate the show car will boast some slick infotainment technologies, as well.
Beyond that, well, we’ll have to wait until March 5th when Subaru – and about 30 other makers – will celebrate Geneva’s crowded opening day.
God is that front end FUGLY!