Subaru has been on a tear with new-name electric crossovers lately, but recent trademark filings suggest the company may be working on something more exciting. The 'ACX' name has been spotted in Australia, along with its high-performance variant 'ACX STI'.
The ACX name isn't entirely new within Subaru's back catalog, as it was previously used for a two-door concept car called the ACX-II, which debuted at the 1985 Tokyo Motor Show. However, this latest filing seems to indicate that Subaru is considering reviving the name for a new production model.
Industry insiders speculate that the ACX could be a Honda Prelude-adjacent, 2+2 coupe with all-wheel drive as its key selling point. This would mark a departure from Subaru's traditional rear-wheel drive layout in models like the BRZ and WRX STI.
The ACX STI trim would likely feature a more powerful engine and upgraded performance capabilities, bringing back the STI badge in a production model for the first time since 2021. This move could signal a renewed focus on high-performance vehicles from Subaru.
Another possibility is that the ACX is a spiritual successor to the BRZ, potentially filling the void left by Toyota's decision to break up with Subaru for its next-gen GR86. However, this remains purely speculative at this point.
The ACX trademarks could also be part of a partnership between Subaru and Toyota, with the AWD ACX sharing technology with the upcoming Celica. The new Celica is confirmed to feature a hybrid powertrain and all-wheel drive, which would align with Subaru's own AWD capabilities.
Design-wise, an ACX coupe could resemble Subaru's Sport Mobility Concept from 2023, blending a two-door body with rugged SUV aesthetics. This design language has been praised for its unique blend of style and functionality.
The ACX trademark filing raises questions about Subaru's future product lineup and potential partnerships. Will the company stick to its traditional electric crossover formula or explore new directions?
Ultimately, only time will tell what the ACX represents for Subaru. However, with the recent resurgence of interest in rear-wheel drive vehicles and all-wheel drive capabilities, it's clear that consumers are eager for more options.
The ACX could be a game-changer for Subaru, offering a fun and exciting alternative to its current lineup. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how this new model fits into Subaru's overall strategy.
The ACX trademark filing raises questions about Subaru's future product lineup and potential partnerships.
