The Subaru WRX STI was the automaker's flagship performance car, and sadly it's gone. What will it look like when it returns? Let's take a journey into the future.
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What’s your dream?
Summer is for dreaming. Read my vision for the new STI EV, and then let us know what you think. First, I have a question. Why did the Subaru WRX STI have to end its successful run for Subaru Corporation? The Subaru WRX is a great car, but the STI was the automaker's flagship performance car, and a lesser version can't replace it.
The new 2025 Subaru WRX tS that arrives in the winter of 2025 is an excellent model, but it's not an STI. Read my WRX tS report here.
A new STI is coming.
Subaru says a new STI is coming back, but in what form? Subaru has yet to release much new WRX STI information. However, I know Subaru has announced plans to electrify its lineup with more new models coming by 2025 and more by 2028. Like many other performance automakers, it's in response to increasing global demand for environmentally friendly sports cars.
I have speculated that one of those new Subaru EVs will likely be the STI electric performance car. I'm hoping it's a hot hatchback and not a sedan.
A return to dominance.
Envision an all-new electric STI with high-torque motors producing 390 horsepower. This powerhouse would not just lead the electric sports car segment, but also reclaim the Japanese automaker's dominance in the compact performance car segment. Subaru wouldn't be able to build them fast enough.
Keep in mind that actual specifications, release dates, and details about a potential new Subaru WRX STI EV will depend on the Japanese automaker's strategic decisions with Subaru Tecnica International (Subaru's performance division) and developments in the EV market that are continually changing.
Let's dream
Imagining the new all-electric Subaru WRX STI opens up some exciting possibilities. Let's dive into what it could look like:
Exterior Design
Futuristic Styling: The new STI I dream about has a sleek, aerodynamic design with a low, aggressive stance. It's not a sedan. I Imagine smooth, flowing lines, a grille-less front end with a minimalist Subaru logo, and a wing on the rear hatch.
Active Aerodynamics: The new STI EV will incorporate features like an active front splitter and rear diffuser to enhance aerodynamic efficiency and stability.
Dynamic Lighting: Imagine it with Subaru's signature LED headlights with animated sequences for turn signals and a distinct light bar running across the front.
Interior Design
High-Tech Cabin: The new STI has a modern, clean interior with a large curved display that integrates infotainment and driver information. Digital controls replace physical buttons for a streamlined look.
Sporty Yet Comfortable: Race-inspired Recaro seats with 10-way electric adjustment and high-quality materials combine comfort and support.
Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting that can change colors to match driving modes or mood.
Performance
Electric Powertrain: Subaru's dual-motor setup with over 400 horsepower and instant torque delivery gives the new STI rapid acceleration and a thrilling driving experience beyond what the discontinued model could deliver.
Advanced Battery Tech: A high-capacity battery pack providing a range of over 300 miles on a single charge, with fast-charging capabilities for quick top-ups.
Torque Vectoring: Subaru's advanced Symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with precise torque vectoring for exceptional handling and cornering in any weather is improved upon in the new STI.
Multi-Speed Manual Gearbox: The new STI EV will employ a multi-speed transmission that can be shifted manually. The latest shifter is developed with Subaru Tecnica International's new manual tech.
Driving Dynamics
Performance Modes: Multiple driving modes including a "Track" mode that optimizes power delivery, suspension settings, and regenerative braking for maximum performance on the street or track.
Adaptive Suspension: The new STI EV has an active suspension system that adjusts to road conditions and driving style, providing comfort in city driving and high performance when needed.
Unique Performance Features
Regenerative Braking: Adjustable regenerative braking settings allow the driver to control how much the car slows down when lifting off the throttle.
Eco and Sport Modes: The STI's customizable driving modes adjust power and the car's responsiveness to driver inputs.
Technology and Safety
Intelligent Assistance: The STI will have Subaru's EyeSight comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automated pedestrian and bicycle detection.
Performance Metrics: A digital display with real-time performance data, including G-forces, power usage, and lap times, offers added visual excitement.
Over-the-Air Updates: Subaru offers regular software updates to improve performance, add new features, and enhance safety.
Exclusivity
Limited Production: In the initial production run, Subaru of America will make available a limited edition model with exclusive paint options and unique badging to emphasize its status as a groundbreaking new performance model in its lineup.
This all-electric Subaru WRX STI would combine the iconic performance and driving dynamics of the traditional STI that fans have come to expect, but with the benefits of e-performance technology, offering a new kind of excitement behind the wheel.
When will the new STI be available for performance customers? No one knows for sure but it will take Subaru Corporation time to develop the best model possible. I would like to see it in late 2026 as a 2027 model year.
Your input is crucial.
What are you looking for in the all-new Subaru STI EV? Let Subaru know by clicking the red 'Add new comment' link below and let us know your thoughts and ideas.
I am Denis Flierl, a top Torque News reporter since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.
Photo credit: Competition Subaru
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To answer your first…
To answer your first question. Liberal politicians CAFE standards are killing traditional performance cars. Your electric ideas are laughable for a WRX. It's not about ( I can go faster than you) speed with a go pedal, it's about driving skill to get as much out of a raucous ( Real) manual driven car with the Natural sounds and smells of a combustion turbo charged engine. Make the SUVs electric, keep the enthusiest cars something people would want to buy
I have a 2022 VB WRX in…
I have a 2022 VB WRX in Premium trim, it took some imagination to see past the gaudy flat black plastic trim covering a large portion of the car (especially the fender flares), but with a clear vision and a lot of aftermarket support, I've been able to turn my ugly WRX duckling into my mind's eye's vision of a graceful STi swan. That said, it was more than just what I envisioned as far as potential aesthetics that convinced me to buy a VB WRX (or be in the market for any generation WRX/STi for that matter,) that being the powerplant and drivetrain, although admittedly a bit lacking in power output by today's standards. Subaru people love the interactions with the senses that an EV simply can't replicate. The whooshing and whistling sounds that come with the throaty burble that only a turbocharged flat-four can deliver will be found high on the checklist that WRX/STi consumers refer to when purchasing their next cat, as well as the mandatory thorough attention required toward shifting through the gears of a 6 speed m/t drivetrain (a bit gimmicky when added simply as fan service in an EV where it isn't required.) I think Subaru's safest bet is to take babysteps as far as utilizing an EV as their flagship performance model, namely by beginning with a hybrid rather than diving in headfirst into EV with an ST"e", because to many Subaru WRX/STi people such as myself, choosing to traverse that latter option would not be bringing back the STi at all.
You're forgetting one pretty…
You're forgetting one pretty important thing.
What'll it weigh and what'll they design it for? My assumption is 3600lbs minimum. Active aero is.. not necessarily something that I would recommend on street cars just because I'm pretty sure that both of us still have no real concept of "downforce" when we're driving active aero equipped cars. Easily the hardest part of driving to me is that.. relying on the downforce I can't feel. Plus it's a rally car. It's not a race car, the fun is from 40-140.
You already know my thoughts on the hatchback part hahaha. Nyet.