The Subaru WRX STI, a nameplate synonymous with rally-bred performance and enthusiast adoration, has been absent from the automotive landscape since its discontinuation in 2021 (2022 in some markets). The void left by the STI’s departure has been keenly felt by Subaru fans, who have eagerly awaited any sign of its return. Recent teasers from Subaru, particularly during the 24 Hours of Fuji endurance race and from Subaru Motorsports USA, have reignited hope for a revival. However, despite the buzz, a true WRX STI comeback remains tantalizingly out of reach. This article delves into the latest developments, the challenges facing a potential revival, and what the future might hold for Subaru’s iconic performance model.
A Legacy of Rally-Bred Excellence
The WRX STI has long been a cornerstone of Subaru’s performance lineup. Born from the Impreza platform, the STI became a legend through its rally heritage, with iconic models like the “22B” and the “Hawk-Eye” WRX STI cementing its status. Powered by turbocharged boxer engines, equipped with all-wheel drive, and featuring aggressive styling, the STI was a favorite among enthusiasts for its raw, unfiltered driving experience. The last iteration, discontinued in 2021, boasted a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine producing 310 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission—a purist’s delight.
However, stricter emissions regulations and Subaru’s shift toward electrification led to the STI’s discontinuation when the current “VB” generation WRX launched in 2021. The EJ25 engine, a staple of the STI, was retired, and Subaru introduced the FA24 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine in the standard WRX, producing 271 horsepower. While the WRX tS and other variants have carried some STI-inspired elements, none have matched the full-fledged performance or charisma of the original STI.
Recent Teasers: A Glimmer of Hope
Subaru has kept enthusiasts on edge with a series of teasers hinting at a performance model revival. The most significant came during the 24 Hours of Fuji endurance race in June 2025, where Subaru’s Chief Technical Officer, Tetsuro Fujinuki, unveiled a teaser image of a sporty, aggressive-looking vehicle. The image, reported by Japanese outlets like Car Watch and Best Car, showcased flared wheel arches, a prominent front splitter, and a hood with vents—hallmarks of STI styling. Fujinuki’s comments about leveraging “current technological assets” to create an “attractive car” fueled speculation that this could be a new WRX STI or a closely related performance model.
Additionally, Subaru Motorsports USA teased a road-legal version of the WRX ARA25 rally car on social media, asking, “What if the Subaru WRX ARA25 was sold as a road car?” The ARA25, an open-class rally car, is believed to use a highly tuned version of the FA24 engine, potentially producing over 300 horsepower, paired with a six-speed sequential transmission and advanced suspension components. While the teaser was more of a thought experiment than a production promise, it stirred excitement among fans craving a return to the STI’s rally roots.
A third teaser emerged from Subaru’s preparations for the Japan Mobility Show (formerly Tokyo Auto Show) in October 2025. Reports suggest the company will unveil a performance prototype featuring a newly developed boxer engine compatible with E20 carbon-neutral fuel and possibly incorporating hybrid technology. This aligns with Subaru’s broader strategy to balance performance with environmental responsibility, a necessity in today’s regulatory climate.
Challenges to a Full Revival
Despite the teasers, several hurdles stand in the way of a true WRX STI revival. Emissions regulations remain a significant obstacle. The EJ25 engine, beloved for its raw power, was discontinued due to its inability to meet modern standards. The FA24 engine, while potent, would require significant modifications to deliver STI-level performance without compromising efficiency. Additionally, Subaru’s exploration of hybrid or electrified powertrains, as hinted in the teasers, suggests a departure from the traditional STI formula, which could alienate purists who cherish the manual transmission and unadulterated combustion engine experience.
Market dynamics also pose challenges. The WRX has seen a sharp decline in sales, with a 71.2% drop in May 2025 compared to the previous year, according to Motor1. This decline reflects a broader shift away from performance sedans toward SUVs and electrified vehicles. Subaru’s focus on models like the Outback and Forester, which dominate its sales, may limit resources for a niche, high-performance model like the STI.
Furthermore, Subaru’s recent STI-badged offerings, such as the Japan-exclusive WRX S210, have disappointed fans. The S210, limited to 500 units, uses a CVT transmission and offers only a modest power increase, falling short of the STI’s legacy. This has led to skepticism about whether Subaru can deliver a revival that lives up to the nameplate’s reputation.
What Could a New STI Look Like?
If Subaru does revive the WRX STI, it will likely blend tradition with modern technology. The teased prototype suggests a vehicle with aggressive aerodynamics, possibly a hatchback body style—a nod to the third-generation WRX STI, which ended in 2014. A hatchback would differentiate it from the current WRX sedan and appeal to fans nostalgic for the versatile, rally-inspired design.
The powertrain is a critical question. The FA24 engine, possibly tuned to 300–350 horsepower, could serve as the base, potentially paired with a hybrid system to boost output while meeting emissions standards. Subaru’s mention of E20 carbon-neutral fuel compatibility indicates a forward-thinking approach, aligning with its collaboration with Toyota and Mazda on sustainable combustion engines. A six-speed manual transmission remains a fan favorite, though the S210’s CVT has raised concerns that Subaru might opt for an automatic to simplify production.
The following table summarizes the potential specifications of a revived WRX STI based on current teasers and speculation:
|
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Engine |
2.4L Turbocharged Flat-Four (FA24), possibly with hybrid assist |
|
Power Output |
300–350 hp (estimated) |
|
Transmission |
6-speed manual or CVT (speculative) |
|
Drivetrain |
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with motorsport-derived enhancements |
|
Body Style |
Sedan or Hatchback (teaser suggests possible hatchback) |
|
Suspension |
Adaptive dampers, R53 springs (based on ARA25 rally car) |
|
Brakes |
Brembo four-piston calipers with 300mm rotors (or six-piston for premium) |
|
Fuel Compatibility |
E20 carbon-neutral fuel |
|
Debut |
Japan Mobility Show, October 2025 |
The Enthusiast Perspective
Subaru enthusiasts are a passionate group, and their reactions to the teasers have been mixed. On platforms like X, fans express both excitement and frustration. Posts like those from @rei0832 and @kaokana4 highlight anticipation for a manual-equipped WRX S4 in 2026, but also impatience for a true STI. The sentiment is clear: fans want a return to the STI’s roots—raw performance, a manual gearbox, and rally-inspired dynamics—rather than a watered-down version with a CVT or excessive electrification.
The WRX tS, introduced as a stopgap, has been criticized for lacking the STI’s soul. Highline Autos noted that the tS, despite its Recaro seats and adaptive dampers, feels “too subdued” for its $45,705 price tag. This underscores the challenge Subaru faces: delivering a car that honors the STI’s legacy while navigating modern constraints.
The Road Ahead
The Japan Mobility Show in October 2025 will be a pivotal moment for Subaru. The teased prototype could confirm whether the STI is making a comeback or if Subaru is pursuing a different performance model, perhaps a hybrid Levorg or a new WRX variant. While the teasers have sparked excitement, they also carry the risk of disappointment if Subaru fails to deliver a car that lives up to the STI name.
For now, enthusiasts can only speculate and hope. The WRX STI’s revival is a tantalizing prospect, but Subaru’s cautious approach suggests it’s not a certainty. Whether it’s a fire-breathing, manual-equipped rally monster or a hybridized, eco-conscious performance car, the next STI must balance heritage with innovation to win back the hearts of Subaru’s loyal fanbase.
Looking Forward
The Subaru WRX STI remains a symbol of performance and passion, and recent teasers have reignited hope for its return. However, challenges like emissions regulations, market trends, and Subaru’s electrification push mean a revival is far from guaranteed. The Japan Mobility Show will provide clarity, but until then, fans are left with a mix of excitement and skepticism. Will Subaru deliver a worthy successor to the STI, or will it remain a dream? Only time will tell.
