Subaru is set to bring back the legendary STI performance brand with a new EV. The company has released a teaser picture of a new hatchback it will reveal at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 on October 29th.
Subaru says it will be “a battery electric vehicle (BEV) concept model that represents the future of the Performance Scene, spearheading Subaru’s new generation. Combines thrilling aesthetic proportions with outstanding aerodynamics and practicality, with a design that evokes the brand’s heritage while providing a driver-friendly layout and a comfortable, spacious interior. By incorporating various innovative technologies, this concept model offers intuitive, exhilarating driving experiences.”
There will also be an internal combustion engine (STI model shown too, which will use the brand’s traditional horizontally opposed engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The teasers show both will be hatchback-sized cars.
Subaru had great success in the 1990s until 2018 with high performance, rally bred models which attained legendary status among enthusiasts. The STI badge was respected and sought-after, especially the Impreza. However, it was killed off in the UK due to dwindling sales and emissions legislation which made the turbo engines too expensive.
The company then returned to making solid but unexciting cars which appealed to country dwellers. It also has a joint venture with Toyota for the Solterra, which is essentially identical to the bZ4X electric SUV.
STI versions of the Impreza achieved legendary status among enthusiasts 
