You Won't See A Next-Generation Subaru WRX Or STI Hatchback Anytime Soon

Subaru teased the 2022 WRX sports car, but it's a sedan and not a hatchback body style. Will Subaru ever bring back the STI hatch?

Subaru of America just teased a new picture (enhanced image above) of the all-new 2022 WRX sports car, and we now know it will be a sedan and not a hatchback body style. Performance enthusiasts have been asking Subaru Corporation to bring back the WRX and STI hatch since the automaker dropped it in 2015.

But it won't happen anytime soon because the image Subaru released and spy shots are of a sedan performance car. It's not a surprise since Subaru Corporation is slow to make significant exterior changes to any models in its all-wheel-drive lineup.

photo credit: KDesign AG (Kleber Silva)

Look at the Forester, Outback, and Crosstrek, and exterior design changes are minimal. Subaru has had success with this formula, and they aren't about to change it now. They will offer performance fans more power and new engines for the next-generation 2022 WRX coming this year, and the STI revealed next year.

The new-generation WRX STI would benefit from a hatch body style to compete with the Honda Civic Type R and new 2022 Volkswagen Golf R hot hatches. It does have its place in the performance car lineup and offers improved utility and cargo-carrying ability. Subaru has not said whether they will bring back the 5-door hatch, but we are betting they won't anytime soon.

Subaru VIZIV Performance Concept

Subaru won't get too crazy with the performance car's new design. Look at the next-generation Levorg sports wagon to get an idea of what the 2022 WRX and STI will look like when it arrives.

WRX and STI get a new turbocharged Boxer engine

Subaru Corporation will drop the EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged Boxer engine in the new STI. Subaru has not confirmed anything yet, but sources close to the Japanese automaker say they will likely put the new FA24 2.4-liter engine turbocharged engine in the next-generation WRX and STI. The new direct-injection engine will be an improvement and could pump out around 386 horsepower in the all-new STI.

The teaser released this week reveals Subaru will not bring back the hatchback body style anytime soon. Look for Subaru of America to fully uncover the 2022 WRX sedan sometime late summer or early fall 2021. Stay tuned.

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Denis Flierl has invested over 30 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role working with every major car brand. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press. Check out Subaru Report where he covers all of the Japanese automaker's models. More stories can be found on the Torque News Subaru page. Follow Denis on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Photo credit: Subaru USA