Subaru fans might have a reason to get excited again. With the high-performance STI version of the iconic WRX still missing in action, enthusiasts have been eagerly waiting for any signs that the rally and motorsport legend might return. During the 2025 Super Taikyu 24-hour Fuji endurance race, Subaru unveiled a cryptic image that gave us major “STI” vibes. However, Subaru revealed almost nothing about this intriguing car, leaving fans with more questions than answers.
At the Super Taikyu round 3 event at Fuji, Subaru’s Chief Technical Officer and Executive Managing Director, Tetsuro Fujinuki, briefly addressed the audience. He mentioned that a new WRX model would be revealed at the Japan Mobility Show on October 29 and 30. Fujinuki expressed his excitement about the new car but humorously added, “I’ve been scolded for talking too much, so I’ll keep it a little vague.” He described the vehicle as “a little more Subaru-like” and hinted that it would incorporate the technological assets Subaru currently has. “Further down the line,” Fujinuki added, “we would like to create something even more cutting-edge.”
So, what does this all mean? The interpretations and speculations are still up for debate. According to Car Watch, Subaru might be looking at a hybrid version, utilizing the Toyota Hybrid System that powers models like the Crosstrek Hybrid and Forester Hybrid. This system could be paired with a turbocharged 2.4-liter flat-four engine, similar to the FA24 found in the 2025 WRX. However, Subaru has been clear that any potential STI would likely not be based on the current WRX and would probably include some form of electrification. Car Watch's hybrid theory seems spot-on, but it's still unclear whether this mysterious vehicle is simply an enhanced version of the WRX sedan or something entirely different.
The car in the image is far from the typical WRX. Its body, face, and overall design appear significantly different, leading us to wonder if we’re looking at an entirely new model altogether. The question remains: is this car an STI? All we know for sure is that it has the potential to be something special. Its wide-body design, aggressive front splitter, and unique-looking rear wing have us eager to see what it will evolve into at the Japan Mobility Show.
Looking at the past, STI models have usually been closely related to the WRX, much like how the Volkswagen Golf R is related to the GTI. However, this new car seems to take things in a different direction. Its design, which features a more aggressive, performance-focused appearance, could indicate that Subaru is considering a fresh take on the STI brand.
Some Western automotive enthusiasts view Subaru’s enigmatic approach as a strategic move in a competitive market. The element of mystery and suspense is often a successful tactic to pique interest and generate buzz. For Subaru fans, whether this turns out to be a revamped STI or a completely new model, it’s news they've been waiting for.
The case isn’t unique to Subaru. Brands like Volkswagen have done something similar with their Golf R, which is a more performance-oriented version of the GTI. But for Subaru, this strategy might be a way to stay relevant in an ever-evolving market where performance isn’t the only factor driving consumer decisions. With increasing focus on electrification and hybrid technology, Subaru’s potential STI could represent more than just a power upgrade—it could be a perfect blend of performance, innovation, and sustainability.
As we look at these developments, we realize that consumers’ desires for performance cars have expanded beyond just speed and power. Today, factors like environmental impact and cutting-edge technology have become crucial in the buying decision. This new Subaru model could very well be the perfect embodiment of that shift—a car that merges performance with the innovation needed to thrive in the future.
For die-hard Subaru fans, whether this turns out to be an updated WRX or a groundbreaking new STI, the excitement is real. All we can do is stay tuned and look forward to seeing what Subaru has in store for us in the coming months. With more details likely to emerge soon, we’re sure this will be a reveal worth waiting for.