Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car
Bold, and even brash, the next Subaru WRX could look something like this, though production vehicles do tend to be less flashy than the concept cars that precede them. IBTimes/Angelo Young

Subaru of America, Inc., presented at the 2013 New York Auto Show a hint of where the company’s design themes are headed with its WRX turbocharged concept vehicle.

Lower, sleeker and wider, the concept of the future performance version of the Impreza is flexing its muscles, at least in its outward appearance. The company has not provided many details about what’s in stores under the hood, which has received a bulge that hints at accommodating a new turbocharged engine.

Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car
The Subaru Impreza WRX concept car that was unveiled at the 2013 New York Auto Show IBTimes/Angelo Young

What is immediately striking about the vehicle is the carbon-fiber roof, which is not simply a slick design feature but also a way to reduce the car top weight and lower its center of gravity. The front-end has stylized air intakes to help the engine breathe, while the massive exhaust pipes -- along with the arches accommodating 20-inch wheels holding 245-section Dunlop tires -- hint that the next WRX is going to have a considerable upgrade to performance.

Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car
The Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car showing at the 2013 New York Auto Show features higher wheel arches, suggesting the next WRX will be the most powerful yet. IBTimes/Angelo Young

The WRX showing in New York has the tinted-out windows that typifies an early-concept car with an unfinished interior, so considerable changes could occur before the car is ready for the market.

Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car
The dual exhaust of the Subaru Impreza WRX concept car IBTimes/Angelo Young

The current Impreza WRX has a 2.5 liter engine with 265 horsepower (305 hp in the STI edition). With all the add-ons, the MSRP approaches $40,000.

Subaru Impreza WRX Concept Car
The carbon-fiber roof of the Subaru Impreza WRX concept car isn't just for show; it lowers the car's center of gravity. IBTimes/Angelo Young