Subaru XV leaked via patent renderings

Subaru unveiled its steroid-enhanced Impreza – the XV concept – at the 2011 Shanghai Motor Show earlier this year, previewing what a high-riding version of the automaker's new C-segment hatchback could look like.

Here in the United States, the XV is better known as the Impreza Outback Sport – a vehicle which we've gotten quite accustomed to, especially for its signature two-tone look.

Interestingly, when we spoke with Subaru officials earlier this year, we were told that the XV isn't in the cards for the U.S., but that it's being considered. However, other markets are slated to get a production version of the crossover as early as next year, and the final design looks to be revealed with these Chinese patent office filings. It looks like exactly what you'd expect from a modern-day Outback Sport, which is to say higher-riding and modestly toughened up visually.