Volkswagen made a brilliant move by developing the multi-use MQB platform. It's capable of underpinning everything from small city cars to large family sedans, and even a crossover or three. Without question it's an impressive display of modern automotive engineering. And Subaru is about to do something similar. Beginning in 2016, the Japanese automaker, currently enjoying phenomenal sales in the US, will unleash its next generation lineup.

First out the blocks will be the Impreza. It'll ride on an all-new platform that, like VW's, is fully capable of being stretched to handle the next-gen Legacy/Outback as well as the upcoming full-size seven-seat crossover Tribeca replacement. So what's the reason for this multi-use platform? Production costs will go down as will development time. And before you panic, the next-generation BRZ, which could arrive in 2018, will retain rear-wheel-drive.