Subaru has torn the covers off its fifth Viziv-branded concept at the 2018 Tokyo Auto Salon, this time adorning its show car with go-fast bits in what is expected to be a preview for the brand’s new-generation WRX STI.

Building on the Viziv Performance Concept revealed at last year’s Tokyo motor show, the new Viziv Performance STI Concept sports a racier look thanks to STI’s signature pink highlights and tabletop-style rear spoiler.

The STI-fettled concept also has a distinct aero package with a restyled fascia, low-slung front splitter, widened side skirts, vented wheelarches and protruding rear diffuser.

The core body underneath however, appears to be unchanged from the original concept, carrying over the carbon-fibre wheelarch flares, C-shaped LED headlights, hexagonal grille design and quad-exit exhaust pipes.

While last year’s Viziv concept glimpsed the next-gen WRX, the Viziv Performance STI show car will foreshadow the range-topping STI performance sedan to be built on the brand’s new 'Global Platform'.

Details regarding the Viziv Performance STI Concept's drivetrain are yet to be revealed, but the big bonnet scoop hints that Subaru may not stray too far away from the traditional turbo-petrol boxer layout.

However, with tightening emissions regulations, that have already seen the demise of the WRX STI in the UK, Subaru will likely ditch the perennial 2.5-litre EJ-series engine that has been in service since the model’s inception.

A smaller displacement force-fed engine, sending power to all four corners, is likely on the cards, that will enable the new-gen WRX STI to keep pace against the likes of the Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R and Honda Civic Type R.

Is this an early look at Subaru's next WRX STI? Tell us what you think in the comments below.