Subaru Unveils a New WRX STi, but Only as a Prototype

 

Subaru is unveiling a model every driving enthusiast dreams of seeing back on public roads: the WRX STi. Subaru has indeed revealed one, but only in prototype form. In reality, if Subaru decides to put it into production, all that remains is to press “Go.”

• The revealed Subaru WRX STi is only a prototype
• It comes with the same 271-horsepower / 258 lb-ft of torque engine as the WRX
• Subaru’s website says “Coming Soon”

Subaru knows exactly how to make us impatient. The automaker has been teasing the internet with drip-fed information and images surrounding the “return” of the legendary WRX STi. Subaru had loudly promised a major announcement at the Tokyo Motor Show regarding the model. So when the car was finally revealed, the word “Prototype” attached to it made it clear that the vehicle is not heading to dealerships anytime soon—at least not immediately.

A WRX with red lips

What we’re seeing, then, is the Subaru WRX STi Sport # Prototype 2026, designed as a preview of a possible STi comeback. Without straying too far from the standard WRX, the car adopts a theme dear to the performance division, highlighted by red accents. It also rides on wheels fitted with Bridgestone Potenza tires. Inside the wheel wells, the brake calipers are painted bronze. Otherwise, the design retains the familiar WRX cues, including the large hood scoop and the extensive use of matte black plastic serving as lower body and bumper protection.

Deception under the hood, for now

Mechanically, the prototype is equipped with the same 2.4-litre Boxer four-cylinder engine. That said, there is some disappointment, as output remains unchanged compared to the WRX. The previous generation, which ended production in 2021, delivered 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. With this prototype, Subaru sticks to the same 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque as the regular WRX. One can still hope for a pleasant surprise in terms of increased power when a production version eventually arrives.

Return of the stick

If mechanical changes are nonexistent and this appears largely to be a styling exercise, there is one key element Subaru brings back: a manual transmission. For this reason alone, brand purists will be pleased.

“Coming Soon”

For now, these are the only details Subaru is sharing about the WRX STi. One thing, however, stands out—the mention of “Coming Soon.” This strongly suggests that the WRX STi could make its return for the 2027 model year.