Subaru Says STI Isn’t Dead — And “Exciting” Models Are in the Works

STI in the Shadows

Looking at Subaru’s current portfolio, it’s understandable why some believe the brand’s performance division, STI, is effectively dead. At the moment, Subaru appears more focused on electrification – having unveiled two new EVs, the Uncharted and Trailseeker – rather than pushing back against tightening emissions regulations with the kind of turbocharged, enthusiast-focused STI models that once defined the brand’s performance image.

However, a report from Australia’s CarSales suggests that the assumption may be premature. Subaru Australia General Manager Scott Lawrence told the publication during the launch of the new-generation Outback that STI still has several projects in the pipeline, which he described as “exciting.”

The Broader Game Plan

Lawrence noted that Subaru isn’t solely focused on reviving the STI badge, but on developing a broader performance portfolio. Whether fans like it or not, the Japanese marque is expected to include all-electric vehicles in that strategy. Well, the Trailseeker is currently the brand’s quickest production model, packing a 375-horsepower dual-motor setup capable of sprinting from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

The Subaru Australia chief did not disclose specific details about the brand’s future performance models. However, he offered reassuring comments that may give fans hope as they have long waited for a proper STI revival. “But just know, STI is not dead — there’s really exciting work going on in the background,” he said.

Teasing the Faithful

So far, Subaru has limited STI’s return to a series of concepts. These include the Performance-E STI Concept, an all-electric vision of STI, and the Performance-B STI Concept, which retains a horizontally opposed boxer engine and the brand’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

More recently, the automaker unveiled the WRX STI Sport♯ prototype, featuring pronounced STI performance upgrades and a manual gearbox – though it appears aimed more at sustaining enthusiast interest than signaling a full-scale STI revival.

While Subaru’s “exciting” long-term plans for STI remain under wraps, the automaker has been expanding its electrified lineup in the U.S. The brand is capitalizing on renewed demand for hybrids while recalibrating its all-electric strategy following the recent slowdown in the EV market. Subaru recently began building its first hybrid at its Indiana plant, the Forester Hybrid, positioning it against segment leaders like the Toyota RAV4, which is hybrid-only starting with the 2026 model year.