Subaru Layback STI Performance Model Revealed, The Hot WRX Hatch Subaru Refuses To Bring To The U.S.

Subaru announced a new Layback STI Performance Model. Check out the images and see if it's the hot WRX hatch performance fans want.

Subaru Corporation revealed a new Subaru Levorg Layback STI Performance Model. The new Subaru Layback is a new model I've covered before, but this performance model is equipped with various STI performance parts. 

Subaru Tecnica International (STI), Subaru Corporation's performance partner, has added performance parts for the model they are bringing to the Tokyo Auto Salon 2024, which will be held from January 12 to 14, 2024.   

The Subaru Levorg Layback STI performance model. 

Subaru says the Layback STI performance model is based on the Levorg Layback Limited EX grade (Japanese model). Subaru doesn't say much other than, "This vehicle is equipped with genuine parts and STI performance parts."

The images reveal a hot version of the Levorg hatchback sold only in Japan. I've speculated before that Subaru could bring the Levorg WRX hatch to the U.S., but it's not likely. 

Why does Subaru drag its feet on a new WRX hatch?

Subaru performance fans have asked for a WRX hatchback body style since Subaru dropped it in 2015. As I've often said, Subaru should bring a WRX hatch to its U.S. fanbase. Subaru sells the WRX Sportswagon in Japan and Australia but has yet to bring it to U.S. shores.

And Subaru won't bring the Levorg Layback STI Performance model to the U.S. market. 

Like many fans, I wonder why Subaru of America hasn't pressured Subaru Corporation to offer a WRX hatch in North America. It's easy to figure out that it would boost sales. It's what performance enthusiasts want, so why does Subaru tease performance hatch models in Japan but not bring it to Subaru's most significant market? 

That's a question Subaru still needs to answer. 

Thanks for reading, everyone. I hope you enjoyed the Levorg Layback STI Performance Model story. See you tomorrow for my latest Subaru Report.

For additional articles related to new Subaru models, here are a few of my top stories you may enjoy. 

My Must-Read Top Picks

• The Subaru WRX And The Tail Of Its Schizo Behavior
• Fasten Your Seat Belts, Subaru Wants To Take You Sky High
• Was This Subaru WRX STI Seen From The International Space Station?

Watch the LIVE TOKYO AUTO SALON 2024 SUBARU/STI ONLINE DAY 1

I am Denis Flierl, a 12-year Torque News senior writer with 20+ years of Subaru and automotive journalism experience. I enjoy bringing you, the Subaru fans and customers, the most up-to-date Subaru news, reviews, and new model information. You'll find the latest Subaru stories on the Subaru page. Follow me on my The Dirty Subaru website, Dirty Subaru blog, SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

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photo credit: Subaru Corporation