Subaru will preview the next-gen Impreza with a concept car at the Tokyo motor show. The official design sketches reveal that the new Impreza will take on more of a conventional hatchback shape than the current car. Highlights include a new grille with large air intakes at the front, and a prominent lip spoiler at the rear.

The new Impreza will source its power from an entirely new line of engines featuring cylinder deactivation technology. The current car is powered by an 112bhp 1.6-litre flat-four engine and is available with either a five-speed manual transmission or a CVT.

The next-gen Impreza is described as being the first of a new generation of Subaru models, and is key to the company's Prominence 2020 plan announced last year. With this model the company aims to enhance its product offerings while also strengthening the brand. The idea is to adopt a standardised platform like many other car manufacturers, which will help in cost and weight savings, as well as the overall development of the car. The new platform is intended to underpin every Subaru model from the Impreza to the Outback.