Ahead of the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, it seems domestic automakers have agreed not to steal each other’s spotlight during the teaser campaign. On Monday, Toyota previewed an electric Corolla and a Century Coupe. Yesterday, Mazda gave us a glimpse of a swoopy four-door concept. Today, it’s Subaru’s turn to share shadowy images of a pair of STI-branded show cars.
We dialed up the brightness to unlock more details. The fully electric Performance-E STI concept leans toward a fastback silhouette, featuring slimmer headlights flanking a narrower hood. Its front bumper has a sharper, more angular design, while the wheels appear to wear gold aero covers.
Meanwhile, the Performance-B STI concept with a combustion engine looks like a proper GR Corolla-fighting hot hatch with a noticeably larger roof spoiler. It’s not the first teaser we’ve seen. Subaru originally previewed the car in early June. The bulging fenders and overall front design suggest a WRX-based hatch. You’ll also spot vents on either side of the hood scoop.
Subaru says the mystery ICE is paired with its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, but other details remain unknown. It’s surprising to see a gas-powered STI, given that only a few months ago the company said the badge would be reserved for electric cars going forward.
A 2022 report stated that the WRX STI was discontinued due to stricter emissions regulations. However, Subaru did launch the S210 special edition earlier this year at the Tokyo Auto Salon as a full-fat STI model powered by an upgraded 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine making 296 horsepower. That said, the performance sedan was sold exclusively in Japan and only with a CVT.
Returning to the new concepts, both feature red accents and familiar Subaru Tecnica International branding. Whether either model will reach production remains to be seen. Debuting on October 29, the STI duo will share the stage at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show with the Trailseeker, Forester Wilderness, Outback Wilderness, and the 1983 GL Family Huckster.
STI Is Dead. Or Is It?
