The Subaru WRX STI Makes A Comeback, Sort Of

When the current “VB” generation of the Subaru WRX came out in 2021, the Japanese automaker said that it wouldn’t come with an STI version, citing ever-changing emissions regulations that make the development cost far from worth it. Finally, however, we now have the 2025 Subaru WRX STI S210, boasting a ton of performance improvements from the standard WRX.

There is, however, a massive catch. One of the hallmark features of the Subaru WRX STI is its multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD), which this one is missing. DCCD allows the driver to vary the torque split between the front and rear wheels. The default setting is 41/59 front/rear, but it can be adjusted to 50/50 by the driver. It’s therefore also missing any limited-slip differentials (LSD), because the DCCD system gives the WRX STI a Torsen LSD for the rear wheels, while the one at the front axle is a helical LSD.

Additionally, unlike past STIs, which were solely offered with a manual, the new WRX STI S210 is only available with a CVT. Specifically, it uses the WRX’s Subaru Performance Transmission, which, to be fair, does an excellent job of mimicking a traditional automatic based on our real-world experience.

But CVTs usually aren’t known for durability in high-performance motorsports use, right? Well, while it has that reputation, Subaru’s CVT is chain-based, and in the WRX STI S210’s case, it comes with a fluid cooler that makes the transmission durable enough for track use.

The beefier CVT is due to its more powerful tune for the FA24 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine. Thanks to Subaru’s experience at the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, they’ve improved the engine by giving it a new air intake, new turbo ducting, and a sportier exhaust, boosting its power from 275 horses to a healthy 300 horsepower. Torque is likewise up by 25 Nm, now producing 375 Nm, and this is complemented by a wider band that starts at just 2,000 RPM.

Handling has always been part of the WRX STI’s equation, and so the Subaru WRX STI S210 receives chassis upgrades that include adaptive suspension by ZF, revised coil springs, and rear stabilizer bushes. Brembo six-piston brakes at the front and cross-drilled discs on all four wheels also help improve the sports sedan’s stopping power.

Subaru also wants other people to know that you’re not simply driving an ordinary WRX, so they gave the sports sedan a wider stance courtesy of its wider gloss black fender flares. Inside those fenders are 19-inch STI Flexible Performance wheels made by BBS, and these are matched with sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. More aggressive aero, sculpted side skirts, a large carbon fiber rear wing, and signature STI Cherry Red highlights on the grille complete the transformation.

Inside, the Subaru WRX STI S210 gets Recaro seats with a carbon fiber backrest and is also upholstered in Nappa leather. The seats have eight-way power adjustment, while the 11.6-inch portrait Subaru Starlink touch screen and 12.3-inch fully digital instrument cluster are retained. Other unique touches include more Cherry Red highlights across the interior, an STI push-button starter, an STI-badged steering, and an S210 serial number plaque indicating its build number.

Unfortunately, the Subaru WRX STI S210 will only be produced in limited numbers–500 units to be precise. It is still unknown if there will be export units, or if these cars will all be limited to Japan. Either way, do you like the WRX STI S210, or is it not a true STI without its manual and its DCCD?