The three-row model was expected to draw inspiration from the VIZIV 2 concept (pictured), revealed at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The concept features a sporty styling, but the production version is said to be headed toward the direction of the Forester or the Outback.
The company has good reason to be cautious, as controversial aesthetics were blamed for the Tribeca’s failure. Executives are also said to be worried about competing too directly with segment rivals, such as the Nissan Pathfinder and Toyota Highlander.
“How can we differentiate the position of our product?” Nobuhiko Murakami, a senior marketing exec at Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries, recently told Automotive News.
The Levorg — essentially a WRX wagon — was well received following its unveiling in Geneva. The model will not be sold in the US market, but it is unclear if some of the design cues could be used for the larger three-row crossover.
Whatever design direction Subaru decides to follow, the crossover is expected to arrive in 2016 or 2017.
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