Subaru Teases the Return of the WRX STI

Subaru fans have been impatiently waiting for the return of the legendary Subaru WRX STI ever since the 2021 model was discontinued. Though the current-generation WRX debuted in 2022, Subaru initially stated there were no plans for an STI version, saying they were looking at shifting toward alternative and electrified powertrains.

That stance now appears to be changing. Subaru has recently released a series of teaser videos strongly hinting at a new WRX STI, and the clues point to a return of the brand’s iconic performance formula rather than a fully electrified replacement.

The short teaser clips showcase a sedan clearly based on the current WRX platform, complete with visible STI badging, dark-finished wheels, chrome exhaust tips, and aggressive styling details. Most exciting for longtime fans, the videos include the sound of the car being revved and it’s unmistakably a STI. The loud, burbling exhaust sound suggests the return of a turbocharged boxer engine with unequal-length headers, which help produce the signature sound that helped define past WRX STI models.

Another key detail revealed is the manual transmission! One teaser shows a driver confirming the shifter is in neutral before starting the car, easing concerns that the STI might rely on an automatic or CVT. For performance purists, this reinforces Subaru’s commitment to driver-focused engineering.

Subaru has confirmed that a new STI-badged WRX will debut at the Tokyo Auto Salon on January 9, one of the world’s premier automotive performance showcases. However, it’s worth noting that Subaru has a history of releasing STI variants exclusively for certain markets, such as Japan, including models like the WRX S4 STI Sport. While global availability hasn’t yet been confirmed, the reveal strongly suggests Subaru is listening to its performance-minded community.

Whether this upcoming WRX STI becomes a global model or remains market-specific, its development signals that Subaru performance vehicles and internal-combustion excitement are far from over. For fans of rally-inspired sedans, all-wheel drive confidence, and turbocharged power, the future is looking promising.