With a name that isn’t quintessentially Subaru, the 2017 Subaru Levorg is a model I was itching to get behind the wheel of to see if it is as unique as its moniker.
The Subaru Levorg is a performance type station wagon fitted with most of the fantastic comfort and safety features found in most of the other Subaru models.
There are essentially only two variants of the Levorg; the 2.0GT and the 2.0GT-S.
However, there is also the 2.0GT-S spec.B (the red model pictured above) which is just an upgrade package filled with STI Performance accessories.
They say performance, but the black alloys, red push button ignition, red STI badging, roof spoiler and under spoilers all around, add minimal function to the vehicle except for a bit of flair.
At $4000 a pop ($52,890), I’ll let you decide if the extras are worth it.
Back to the regular grades and both possess the same drivetrains – a CVT and a 2.0 litre turbo boxer engine which is the same engine as the Subaru WRX found under the equally identical bonnet scoop capable of a peak of 197kW/350Nm.
Disappointingly I found it didn’t have quite the same ability out on the road as the WRX. This might have something to do with the CVT as opposed to the WRX’s manual gearbox.
Being what it is, the CVT tends to fling the car forward creating a lurching motion at gear shifts, which are placed at the wrong time, instead of accelerating powerfully and smoothly like it wants to.
Mind you, there is plenty of juice in the box especially at the top end and with two extra sports modes, but the Levorg just doesn’t utilise it efficiently and effectively.
Having said that, there is still plenty more punch than the average sedan but if you want the Subaru Liberty 3.6R may be a better option for less money.
The other main difference between the 2.0GT and the 2.0 GT-S is the suspension.
A Bilstein sports suspension in the GT-S provides greater handling but combined with the 18” alloys, gives a much harder ride noticeable over speed humps.
Coming in at $43,240 the base model Levorg 2.0GT comes standard with a 6.2” touch screen, smart key and push button start, paddle shifters, leather steering wheel and gear shift, dual zone climate control, rear view camera, halogen drls, cloth seats and of course the 18” alloys wheels.
On the safety front it boasts components of the Subaru’s eyesight technology including, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision steering and braking, brake light recognition, lane departure and sway warning and lead vehicle start alert.
Station wagons still have their place despite declining popularity and are a practical choice for those who prefer a sedan to a bulky SUV.
In the boot is a rear cargo blind to cover up your shopping or luggage and the floor has removable panels which are annoyingly not connected together.
The rear seats fold down automatically at the touch of a button via the electric switch creatingmore storage space to a capacity of 1446 litres.
In the Levorg 2.0GT-S, you get some extra kit like an electric sunroof; a larger 7” touch screen with sat nav plus siri and pandora radio compatibility; leather trim powered sports bucket seats with memory function; blue stitching on the seats, wheel and console; auto head lights, wipers and dimming mirror; blindspot side view; and silver mirrors with indicators.
Rear cross traffic alert, lane change assist and a blind spot monitor are additions to the vision assist package. And you get all of this for $49,140 before on road costs.
The 2017 Subaru Levorg is not exactly what it should be but hey, it’s still a Subaru, offering a quality build, comfortable ride, safety and features.
NUTS and BOLTS 2017 Subaru Levorg
Engine: 2.0L turbo petrol producing 197kW and 350Nm
Transmission: CVT
Warranty: 3 Year/unlimited km
Safety: Five Stars
Origin: Japan
Price: From $43,240
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