Robert Ackers
Summary
- Subaru is set to debut two STI concept cars at the Tokyo motor show.
- The combustion-engined concept is reportedly based on the current Impreza hatchback.
Electric and petrol-powered performance hatches mark the long-awaited rebirth of Subaru’s STI brand.
Subaru is gearing up to reignite its high-performance legacy with two new STI concept cars, set to debut at the Tokyo motor show — one fully electric, the other powered by a traditional combustion engine.
A dual approach to performance
The Japanese brand confirmed that both concepts will take the form of hot hatches, previewing the next generation of Subaru’s performance models. The EV version will debut a new design language, featuring sharp LED lighting signatures and a sleek, coupe-like roofline. Subaru describes it as the “spearhead” of its future line-up, signalling that performance will remain central to its electrification strategy.
Meanwhile, the combustion-engined concept will stay true to Subaru’s DNA, reportedly based on the current Impreza hatchback sold in Japan and Europe. It will use a boxer engine paired with symmetrical all-wheel drive – two hallmarks of Subaru’s engineering heritage.
STI reborn
These concepts represent the strongest hint yet that Subaru is preparing to revive its legendary STI (Subaru Tecnica International) sub-brand, dormant since the WRX STI was discontinued globally in 2021. The UK lost its STI models even earlier, as stricter emissions rules and changes to rally regulations made the high-output turbo saloons harder to justify.
In recent years, Subaru has focused primarily on SUVs such as the Crosstrek, Outback, Forester, and Solterra, moving away from its motorsport roots. However, recent comments from company executives suggest a shift in attitude.
Executives hint at return to Subaru’s roots
Subaru UK’s current managing director, Lorraine Bishton, recently admitted that ignoring the brand’s performance heritage was “a little bit of a missed opportunity.”
Subaru Europe boss David Dello Stritto echoed that sentiment earlier this year, telling Autocar:
“Ask the average person what Subaru means and they’ll say STI. You can’t disassociate this from Subaru.”
He added that the dream remains to see “a future WRX STI – super-fast, gold wheels, blue colour,” referencing the iconic livery that made Subaru famous in the World Rally Championship.
What to expect next
The Tokyo motor show reveal will likely provide the first concrete clues about Subaru’s new design direction and how the company plans to merge EV performance with classic STI spirit. Whether or not either concept evolves into a production model remains to be seen, but for enthusiasts, it’s the clearest signal yet that Subaru hasn’t forgotten its rally-bred soul.
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