The Subaru Levorg Layback becomes the third model to receive the brand’s e-Boxer (Strong Hybrid) system in Japan after the Crosstrek and Forester. Should you haven’t heard of the Levorg Layback, it is basically a more rugged version of the Levorg wagon with an increased ride height and black body cladding.
The hybrid powertrain incorporates a 2.5 litre Atkinson-cycle naturally-aspirated flat-four petrol engine that serves up 160 PS (158 hp or 118 kW) and 209 Nm of torque. That is accompanied by two electric motors, one being a generator that charges the 1.1 kWh lithium-ion battery, while the opposite is a traction motor rated at 120 PS (118 hp or 88 kW) and 270 Nm. Total system output is 197 PS (194 hp or 145 kW).
The motors, eCVT (still branded as Lineartronic), front differential gear and electronically-controlled coupling are integrated right into a single transaxle, routing each petrol and electric power to all 4 wheels and enabling the usage of one or the opposite (or each) to drive the automobile.
Because of the hybrid parts, the electrified version of the Layback has a rather reduced ride height of 180 mm in comparison with the 200 mm of the turbo model. Nonetheless, cargo capability is unchanged at 429 litres (410 litres above floor, 19 litres under the ground) and the ground length stays at around 1,000 mm.
You’ll find a way to inform a hybrid Layback from the turbo model from the front, with the previous sporting a wider grille with a more subtle chrome strip. The dearth of a turbo also leads to the deletion of the inside track on the bonnet, which has been reprofiled to be more streamlined and fewer “bulgy.”
Elsewhere, the headlamps have also been altered to match the brand new grille, while a less obvious revision are the headlamp washers that not stand out on the bumper but are as an alternative integrated into the grille surround for a cleaner look.
As for the inside, there’s an influence meter to indicate the system’s output and energy recovery status in real time. Beyond that, it looks just about the identical as a daily Layback. Subaru says the hybrid model comes standard with a Harman Kardon sound system and a heated steering wheel. The 18-inch wheel design is exclusive to the Strong Hybrid-powered model too, which comes with a 100-volt AC outlet within the boot that may deliver as much as 1,500 watts.
Two variants are offered, the cheaper option being the Premium Black S:HEV EX that comes with black leather seat upholstery and price tag of 4.246 million yen (about RM107k) including local consumption tax. The highest-spec variant is the Premium S:HEV EX with Nappa leather in tan or black and goes for 4.521 million yen (RM114k).
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This Article First Appeared At paultan.org
