Subaru Reveals Two STI Concepts – But Which is Slated for Production?

It’s been three long years since Subaru sent its iconic WRX STI off into retirement. And there’s been plenty of speculation about whether a replacement might follow. The answer appears to be yes, based on what the automaker revealed during this week’s Japan Mobility Show. But that news conference raised another question: which of the two STI concepts it rolled out – one gas powered, the other all-electric – will actually make it into production? Headlight.News has more from Tokyo.

Sure, Subaru may be best known for its rugged little crossovers, like the Outback and Forester, but it’s developed a strong following for its performance models, as well. So, there was plenty of disappointment when the Japanese automaker ended production of the WRX STI in 2021.

Since then, Subaru has brought out a new version of the less potent WRX package, a move leaving fans hoping it would eventually take the next step. And that’s what it signaled at this week’s Tokyo Motor Show. But while it now seems clear a performance model bearing the shorthand for Subaru Tecnica International will soon return to the line-up we’re left guessing precisely what that production model actually will be.

That’s because two very different show cars were unveiled at Tokyo’s Big Sight convention center, one using a version of the familiar Subaru Boxer gas engine, the other going all-electric.

The back story

Introduced in 1992 as the Subaru Impreza WRX STI, the hot hatch was initially a JDM, or Japanese domestic model, only eventually making its way to the U.S. market.

Compared to the more mainstream Impreza, the WRX STI received a variety of upgrades to its powertrain, suspension, brakes, tires, wheels and chassis – along with cosmetic tweaks – positioning it as a challenger to more familiar compact performance packages, such as Volkswagen’s Golf-based GTI.

The Subaru hatchback went through a series of evolutions in the two decades that followed, notably switching from the Impreza platform to the WRX in 2015. But Subaru announced in 2020 that it would phase out the STI package in 2021, even while bringing out a new version of the WRX.

Since then, Subaru fans have closely listened for clues that the STI badge would be revived – and they were rewarded earlier this month when Subaru released teaser images confirming something big was in the works. But it also left everyone scratching their heads trying to understand what Subaru was actually planning.

 Subaru Performance-E STI C

The two new concepts include the all-electric Performance-E which, said Subaru, “represents the future of the Performance Scene, spearheading Subaru’s new generation.”

Unfortunately, the Japanese automaker was sparse with details. It said nothing about horsepower, torque or range. Indeed, it neglected to even reveal how many motors the Performance-E concept is fitted with and whether the front, rear or all wheels are driven.

But, in an earlier statement, it suggested the electric concept “Combines thrilling aesthetic proportions with outstanding aerodynamics and practicality, with a design that evokes the brand’s heritage while providing a driver-friendly layout and a comfortable, spacious interior. By incorporating various innovative technologies, this concept model offers intuitive, exhilarating driving experiences.”

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Subaru Performance-B STI Concept

As for the Subaru Performance-B STI concept, the automaker suggested this “design achieves a balance of advanced performance and power with practicality,” the automaker said in a statement following the Wednesday afternoon news conference.

As with the Performance-E show car, Subaru was stingy with details about the -B, as well. What we do know is that it stands for “boxer,” shorthand for the horizontally opposed engine that has long been a Subaru mainstay. And the engine is here paired with the company’s familiar Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive.

As the images here show, the two STI concepts take decidedly different approaches from a visual standpoint, as well. The all-electric Performance-E package is the sleeker of the two, with a more sci-fi-like shape. The Performance-B package carries over a more familiar Subaru hatchback appearance. That said, both clearly benefit from wind tunnel work meant to improve aerodynamics, including their big rear wings.

Which one will Subaru go with?

For those trying to read the tea leaves, it appeared significant that the all-electric concept was actually on stage with Subaru’s global CEO Atsushi Osaki. Down on the show floor, the Performance-Bn package could easily be missed.

There’s no question that, even as many automakers have begun pulling back on their EV programs, Subaru is determined to move ahead. At the New York Auto Show last spring it rolled out three EVs, including the off-road-oriented Trailseeker, as well as an update of its original Solterra model.

There is the possibility that Subaru sees a future for both models: potentially preparing a conventional take on the STI based off the current WRX model, with a second STI-badged EV that can take advantage of the massive, instantaneous torque only electric motors can deliver.

The likelihood is that the automaker will be watching closely to measure reactions to the two concept vehicles before locking its plans down.