Subaru Is Building Up Towards A True STI Model, As It Teases Us With 3 New Performance Variants That Aren't Quite What Enthusiasts Want

The STI brand has been somewhat dormant, at least on the surface, but significant developments have been taking place behind the scenes. Subaru Tecnica International is the Japanese carmaker’s performance and motorsport division, responsible for the company’s most exciting models. 

At the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, the brand is preparing to showcase three STI-enhanced models, alongside its current racing models. Taking into account previous reports about a future Subaru STI model, this is clearly building towards a true performance model, and oh boy, it has been a long time coming.

The three new models are a foreplay before the main event

As it stands, Subaru will show three new road-going models, all featuring the STI treatment. These are the Subaru Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition with Plus Package (that’s a handful), which is a hatchback, Subaru LEVORG STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance, and the Subaru WRX S4 STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance. 

The Levorg and WRX S4 STI feature a unique “Sunrise” yellow hue and other upgrades, including Recaro seats and Alcantara-like material throughout the interior. The three models will benefit from various STI performance goodies that will improve handling.

All three models will be powered by the familiar, FA24, 2.4-liter, turbocharged boxer engine, developing 271 horsepower and 277 pound-feet. In true Subaru fashion, the sedan, station wagon, and hatchback will come with permanent all-wheel drive. 

Sadly, only the S4 STI sedan will have the option of a six-speed manual. The Levorg and Impreza will only be available with the company’s CVT. The bad news is, these will be Japan-only models.

But there is also good news

According to Japanese reports, a new STI will be unveiled alongside these three models and the company’s next-gen race cars, including the Subaru BRZ GT300, SUBARU WRX VBH Japan Rally Championship race car, and a new 2026 Super Takiyu race car. 

Early reports paint the new Subaru STI as an all-wheel-drive hot hatchback, and while the segment may seem crowded with models like the Civic Type-R, GR Corolla, and Golf R, the new STI could provide superior performance in a more practical package.

The reborn STI is said to feature a more highly-tuned version of the 2.4-liter turbo engine. I fully expect an output of over 300 horsepower. No word on electrification yet, but a mild hybrid is possible. In any case, the new Subaru hot hatch will make its official debut at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, between 9 and 11 January. No sales details are present yet, but I suspect the new STI will go on sale for the 2027 model year. We will know more after the official debut.

I hope the new Subaru STI will be the fire-breathing, AWD monster everybody wants it to be. The combination of aggressive styling, turbocharged boxer engine, and a manual transmission that sends power to all wheels is iconic, and Subaru has proven for decades it is very good at executing this formula. Let me know what your thoughts are on the rebirth of the Subaru STI. With the GR Corolla adopting Toyota’s new turbo-four engine, the STI could have steep competition. Which one would you choose?

Dimitar Angelov's automotive interests made him an expert in a wide variety of vehicles. Japanese brands like Toyota and Nissan are closest to his heart, although performance cars in general are his favorite segment, which is why he is constantly on the lookout for the best deals on the market. Dimitar Angelov's car passion and knack for the written word led him to complete a Master of Arts in Media and Communications, and classic car restoration. Dim is happy to get behind the wheel of any car and share his impressions. You can follow Dimitar on X, Linked-in, Instagram, and Facebook.

Image source: Outline of Subaru’s Tokyo Auto Salon 2026 Exhibit