Subaru’s Electric STI

STI Revival

Subaru enthusiasts still reminisce about the WRX STI as if it was gone too soon. This rally-inspired performance car was discontinued worldwide back in 2022. The culprit? Stricter emissions regulations. Since then, Subaru’s been focused on their top sellers, like rugged SUVs and EVs, which they’ve been developing alongside Toyota. But don’t be fooled. The STI badge hasn’t been forgotten; it’s simply gearing up for a new chapter.

New Direction

During the 2025 New York Auto Show, David Dello Stritto, Subaru Europe’s head honcho, painted a fresh vision for the brand. Subaru, he says, stands on three pillars: safety, fun, and toughness. But he argues there’s a missing piece: raw power and performance. Stritto’s been pretty clear that the Subaru identity is intertwined with the STI image. Forgetting it isn’t an option.

So, how does Subaru plan to bring back that sporty edge? Electrification. EU regulations make it tough to get a high-performance gas engine to comply, especially with devices like gasoline particulate filters that can stifle an engine’s power. That’s why the next generation of the STI, or anything similar, will be powered by electricity.

Electric Power

Subaru’s electric ambitions have been gradually unfolding. Back in 2022, they introduced the STI E-RA concept, a fierce 1,073-horsepower electric vehicle designed to show the world what an EV can achieve on the track. The company even trademarked “STe” in Germany in 2023, hinting at a new era for Subaru’s performance line.

The STI badge might not make it to the new electric top model, but the essence of STI lives on. Subaru’s next big performer is likely to be electrified, offering the speed and excitement Subaru fans expect with cutting-edge technology.

A Prudent Path

Subaru isn’t diving into that performance future just yet, though. Their immediate focus is on the core business of SUVs and crossovers. The aim is to boost sales volume first. Stabilizing these sales allows them to eventually invest in a flashy, electric performance halo model that caters to their die-hard fans.

Subaru’s already started laying the groundwork. They’re collaborating with Toyota to develop new electric rides, following the successful BRZ and GT86 models from years ago. The new Trailseeker EV, recently unveiled, is the result of this partnership and might just be the stepping stone for an electric sports model.

Looking Ahead

Stritto’s vision for the STI is crystal clear: “Let’s face it, having a future WRC-styled STI with those iconic gold wheels and classic blue paint — that’s the goal.” If Subaru pulls this off, it would be a thrilling evolution of the STI legacy. Sure, the engine’s note might change, and driving feel will differ, but the heart of performance will remain. For Subaru loyalists hungry for speed, that shift could be just what they’ve been waiting for.