Subaru's new scalable vehicle platform will underpin the next Impreza

Subaru has announced it's preparing to launch an all-new vehicle architecture, dubbed the Subaru Global Platform, which will underpin all of the company's next-generation vehicles including an all-new Impreza due to go on sale this year.

Like the scalable platform Volvo uses for its XC90, S90 and V90 models and Volkswagen's MQB architecture underpinning the VW Golf, Golf Wagon, Audi A3 and Q3 and a variety of other small vehicles, Subaru's new design -- part of a mid-term plan called "Prominence 2020" -- is being designed to work for vehicles of various sizes and body styles. The automaker says that this latest development, along with its horizontally opposed engines, symmetrical all-wheel drive and Eyesight, will constitute the basic foundation of the brand's future models.

Subaru says its main goals for the new design are to create an "emotionally engaging dynamic feel that goes beyond high performance," and building cars that boast the world's highest level of safety. The new platform is also being conceived for adaptability to electrification.

Safety-wise, the new platform will have a centre of gravity five millimetres lower than any of its current models, and it will be more rigid and better at absorbing impact energy.

The first car to ride on the new platform will be the next-generation Impreza, which Subaru says will reach dealerships this year in various markets.