A new trademark filing suggests a peppy in-betweener.Subaru may be readying a slightly spicier version of its popular base Impreza hatchback. A new trademark filing unearthed by blogger Creative311 shows the Japanese automaker moving to protect the name, "Impreza TX."While trademark filings aren't necessarily hard confirmations of new models (nor very telling at all, for that matter), the application has the internet abuzz with speculation. Some suggest it could be a sportier, enthusiast-oriented variant other than a WRX or STI.A peppier, six-speed manual-equipped Impreza? Sign us upA next-gen Impreza is on the way, which may include an even sportier variant below the WRX. - Credit: SubaruAccording to said speculation, some believe this new "Impreza TX" trademark filing may indicate a sportier variant based on the impending next-gen model. Today, Subaru of America only sells a base, five-door hatchback version of the Impreza.AdvertisementAdvertisementIt's rather mundane, too, with its two engine options and trim levels. At least, when compared to the hi-po WRX sedan.A new trademark filing with the USPTO suggests a new Impreza variant is on the way. - Credit: USPTO – Screenshot via Chris ChinThe Impreza hatch also only comes in two trims, named Sport and RS. The Sport comes with a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated boxer-four with 145 pound-feet. The more expensive RS features a 180-horsepower 2.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer-four.But both only come with a CVT automatic. As such, while Subaru touts "sport-tuned suspension," neither the Sport nor the RS is particularly sporty or peppy.Today, the Impreza hatchback comes with two engine options, but, it's stuck with a soul-sucking CVT. - Credit: SubaruThis supposed new Impreza TX could change that. Rumors say the TX could come with a turbo engine and a six-speed manual and other sportier appointments. However, it'll likely be one step below the WRX.Reenergizing Subaru as an enthusiast brandSubaru touts "sport-tuned" suspension for the base Impreza Sport, but it seems hardly so, at least, when compared to the WRX. - Credit: SubaruThe supposed new Impreza TX may also be another sign of Subaru's intent to reinvigorate the brand with some more enthusiastic vibes. The brand moved away from its performance endeavors after the 2008 financial crisis, in a bid to focus on more family-friendly and commuter-centric automobiles.AdvertisementAdvertisementBut because buyers appear to want more fun cars, Subaru is jumping on the bandwagon. This was further exemplified by its latest efforts to revive STI as its performance brand.Furthermore, if one dissects the logic behind the "Impreza TX" name, one will see that Subaru used the "TX" badge once before. Specifically with the older Forester and Outback TX models.Subaru's on a roll to try and revamp its image as an enthusiast brand and bring back STI. - Credit: SubaruPreviously, the TX badge designated the use of a turbocharged engine (T) while the "X" also indicated all-wheel drive as standard equipment.Additionally, Subaru in Japan teased three new models on the horizon. One had the silhouette of the current WRX sedan, while another clearly looked like a BRZ under the sheets.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe third, however, appeared hatchback-like, suggesting it could be a new Impreza five-door variant in the works.About the Author: Chris Chin is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, covering cars, trucks and anything else with four wheels. He has over a decade of experience writing news and reviews but considers himself an enthusiast first, with a passion for classics and European cars. His daily driver is a 1987 Mercedes-Benz 560SEL with nearly 250,000 miles (87,000 are his).Want to stay up to date on the latest product news and releases? Add Gear Patrol as a preferred source to ensure our independent journalism makes it to the top of your Google search results.