Jurors praised the Levorg for its refined, yet spirited handling thanks to its migration to the Subaru Global Platform. Moreover, it was loved for the new ZF-developed electronically controlled damper system—the first Subaru to receive such a feature.

The all-new Levorg uses a 1.8-liter turbocharged direct-injection turbocharged engine making 177 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque. The sole transmission is the Lineartronic CVT driving all four wheels via a Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Jurors noted the new engine for its smoothness and tractability.

Being the first Subaru production vehicle designed under the concept of “BOLDER,” the all-new Levorg features a more striking design with angular wheel arches, cut-out head-and taillights, and wheel sizes in either 17- or 18-inches (215/50R17 or 225/45 R18 tires installed). It also manages to maintain the trademark hood scoop despite stricter pedestrian impact regulations.

The all-new 2021 Levorg also debuts a new version of the Subaru EyeSight Technology which adds Emergency Lane Keep Assist to its usual driver assist suite. A more advanced version, called EyeSight X, adds autonomous driving capabilities thanks to the use of 3D high-precision map data. Features here include hands-off assist during traffic jams, active lane change assist, and automatic speed control in curves and toll gates.

Other big winners in the 2020-2021 Japan Car of the Year are:

• Japan Import Car of the Year: Peugeot 208
• Japan Kei Car of the Year: Nissan Roox / Mitsubishi eK
• Japan Performance Car of the Year: BMW Alpina B3
• Japan Car Design of the Year: Mazda MX-30
• Japan Car Technology of the Year: Audi e-tron Sportback