Subaru revives legendary WRX STI but with a twist in Japan
Contrary to earlier announcements, Subaru has resurrected the WRX STI. However, this heart-racing model will only be available to buyers in one country and has a transmission that might make die-hard track enthusiasts grind their teeth.
In March 2022, Subaru announced that the WRX STI model would not receive a combustion successor. Those who hoped for a bright future for the S4 STI concept, shown just two months earlier, must have felt sorely disappointed. The manufacturer made this decision due to carbon dioxide emission regulations. Although the refreshed WRX can be bought in some markets, like Canada, it lacks a significant STI label. Now, this may change.
As reported by Motor1, a prototype of the Subaru WRX STI (S210) was unveiled during the Tokyo Auto Salon. The designation is checked, and the line is reminiscent of the historically renowned model. So, what's still not quite right? Firstly, only 500 units of this car will be produced, and only for the Japanese market. Yet there's more.
The manufacturer evokes the track experience at the Nürburgring when referring to the car. This is no surprise because this vehicle was valued for its handling, not for atomic acceleration on a straight. Under the bonnet lies a 2.4-litre boxer engine. It delivers 296 horsepower at 5700 rpm and a maximum torque of 376 Nm from 2000 rpm. The asphalt meets Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres mounted on 19-inch forged BBS wheels.
And what is between the wheels and the engine? Here's where the trouble lies. On its website, the manufacturer mentions the "Subaru Performance Transmission." Unfortunately, this promising name refers to a CVT transmission. This is certainly not the solution fans requested in letters to Subaru. Nevertheless, there will surely be plenty of eager buyers. The manufacturer plans to start taking orders in the spring of 2025.
