Subaru’s model unveiling at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon isn’t a full-blown STI model that we’ve been wishing for. It’s yet another gussied-up STI Sport variant of the WRX sports sedan called the Subaru WRX STI Sport#.
What do we mean by another STI Sport variant? Well, just like BMW M Sport or Lexus F Sport, which aren’t the actual BMW M or Lexus F high-performance models, respectively, STI Sport likewise follows a similar route. STI Sport models have aesthetic and (oftentimes) handling upgrades, whereas a full STI model, like the previous generation (VA) WRX STI, gets the full beans, including a significant power upgrade and more capable hardware.
Though the Japanese press release states that it is a “complete STI car that combines Subaru’s long-standing technologies, such as a horizontally-opposed turbo engine, Symmetrical AWD, and a manual transmission”, the 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder boxer engine remains the same at 271 horsepower. Interestingly, this also marks the first time that the current generation (VB) WRX will be offered with a manual in Japan.
What’s also missing from the true WRX STI is a distinct Symmetrical AWD feature that defined the nameplate– the Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD). DCCD allows the driver to adjust the power split between the front and rear wheels, tailoring the handling based on the driver’s wishes.
On the upside, the Subaru WRX STI Sport comes with ZF-sourced (yes, the same company that manufactures the excellent ZF eight-speed automatic) electronically controlled suspension, which was tuned by STI, along with gold-painted Brembo six-piston front and two-piston rear brake calipers. Additional chassis bracing helps make the vehicle’s structure feel even more rock-solid than it already is.
The new Subaru WRX STI Sport# is so far a pre-production prototype, but it is scheduled to go on sale in Japan by spring 2026.
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