Subaru Brings Back the WRX STI And It Is Staying Gas Powered

For years, Subaru fans have been waiting for a real sign that the WRX STI was not gone forever. That moment finally arrived when Subaru confirmed a new STI model debuting on January 9 at the Tokyo Auto Salon, and just as important, it is not electric. After the last gas powered WRX STI ended production in 2021, many assumed the badge would return only as an electric performance car. Subaru’s latest teaser puts that fear to rest.

The footage released by Subaru leaves little room for interpretation. You can hear a traditional internal combustion engine, unmistakably a boxer layout, reinforcing that this new STI is powered by gasoline rather than batteries. Subaru has not released horsepower figures or full specifications yet, but the message is clear. The STI identity is coming back in a form that prioritizes mechanical engagement and sound, not silence.

What also stands out is Subaru’s choice of venue. Tokyo Auto Salon is where Japanese manufacturers show their most performance focused machines, not concept exercises meant for distant futures. That context matters. Subaru is signaling that this STI is meant to be taken seriously, not just admired behind ropes. The teaser images show an STI badge proudly placed on the grille, along with aggressive aerodynamic cues that suggest functional intent rather than styling drama.

Equally important is the body style. The vehicle shown in the teaser is a sedan, not a hatchback. The proportions clearly match the current WRX sedan platform, including a defined trunk and rear deck. While Subaru has shown hatchback based STI concepts in the past, this specific debut is centered on a sedan configuration, keeping continuity with the last production WRX STI sold globally.

Subaru has remained quiet on transmission details, but the brand’s performance heritage strongly suggests that driver involvement will remain a priority. The STI name has always stood for more than just speed. It represents durability, rally bred engineering, and a car designed to be driven hard without losing its character. Subaru understands that legacy, and reviving the STI without electrification reinforces that philosophy.

This return is also significant because it shows Subaru resisting industry pressure to move all performance branding toward electric platforms. Instead, the company appears to be carving out a space for enthusiasts who still want a visceral driving experience. That does not mean electrification is off the table for Subaru’s future, but it does mean the STI badge still stands for something very specific today.

As more details emerge after the official reveal, attention will turn to global availability, especially for markets like the United States. For now, what matters most is that the WRX STI is officially back, powered by an internal combustion engine, and making its return on one of the most important performance stages in the automotive world.