Subaru reveals the Performance-B STI Concept. A 6 speed manual, hot hatch with a true STI transmission and DCCD.
Posted by Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit | cars | View on Reddit | 380 comments
Subaru revealed the Performance B STI concept with a fully completed interior, and exterior. Looks very promising to eventually become a production vehicle.
https://imgur.com/a/trqjfyR
The interior view shows a modern WRX interior, but with SI-Drive, and a DCCD selector, along with STI labeling, and a flat bottom steering wheel.
level_one_bulbasaur@reddit
My wife just got her forester so I’m next due for an upgrade on my cross trek 5 speed STI hatchback literally the only thing I’d splurge on
Fit_Equivalent3610@reddit
The comments on r/WRX are so negative. I think they both look cool, especially the electric concept. Plus, FA24 + true STI 6 speed + hatch is unironically exactly what WRX fans say they want.
THALANDMAN@reddit
You can't please those people lol. This is everything they've been asking for.
lifegoeson2702@reddit
Unfortunately the same can be said about people on here. Just look at the amount of negativity is being directed towards the new Honda Prelude…
FishMan4807@reddit
It has a CVT. No manual option. It deserves negativity. LOADS of bile-laden negativity.
Appalachias-Hero@reddit
Here 150 days later to give you the upvote that someone took from you. CVT is absolutely hot garbage in anything that’s considered a “sports” car.
THALANDMAN@reddit
I love Honda, I've owned a 2017 Civic Si and now a 2023 CRV Hybrid. I've driven Type-Rs and they are great. I'd probably own one right now if I didn't need AWD.
They dropped the ball with the Prelude. It's a less practical Civic Hybrid with the same amount of performance. They could have made this an actual hybrid sports car and I think it would have been well-received. I wouldn't be able to stomach my CRV Hybrid having the same if not better performance than my sports coupe lol.
XSC@reddit
“I just want an STI hatch with a manual”
Subaru: Hey here you go
“Not like that!”
upvotemaster42069@reddit
Haha I was guilty of that when they brought back the outback XT.
I was like "but the hood scoop!"
Chsenigma@reddit
As a 2016 VA owner, I would put a deposit down today on this sti hatch
XSC@reddit
Exactly, I would trade in my BRZ. As long as it’s not like 60k lol. That’s M2 or C8 money. Hell even 50k would be too much.
rahtx@reddit
I have some bad news for you. The last WRX STI hatch in the US (2014) started at $36,500. That's pretty much exactly $50k when adjusted for inflation.
Type_Writer_6942@reddit
Why do you have to bring reality in to rain on my fantasy here man?
dara321aaa@reddit
For real, Subaru needs to start releasing used cars that are a little cheaper /s
Chsenigma@reddit
If they can keep it price competitive with GR Corolla, it will sell.
Astramael@reddit
It won’t be. Subaru can barely keep the WRX price competitive.
I think it will sell anyways if the specs are sufficient.
-Altephor-@reddit
Also as a 2016 VA owner, I would buy it if they shrunk the whole thing down about 20%. Not interested in crossover minivans.
Chsenigma@reddit
Gr Corolla is that already, I have kids that need the bigger back seats.
gropingpriest@reddit
https://old.reddit.com/r/WRX/comments/1oiuwlr/manual_and_sti_drivetrain_confirmed/
looks well received to me.
LLMprophet@reddit
Don't ruin the circlejerk.
phalanxs@reddit
I remember back when the third generation Impreza was announced as a hatch. Boy were people mad. Especially when at first the STI was announced as hatchback only. Then a few years later the STI reverted to sedan only and people were mad too. We've now run the full circle.
-Altephor-@reddit
Absolutely no one asked for that ugly ass electric car with that gross rear profile, sorry to say.
THALANDMAN@reddit
I’m only referring to the gas STI concept. The EV is indeed ugly as hell. If they only announced the EV people would be justifiably pissed.
5hiftyy@reddit
I'd buy one so fast. I'd have to give up my beloved Speed3, but I'm sure I'll get over it.
2Drogdar2Furious@reddit
Crash the speed3 first for the insurance payout... I need one cheap to swap out my 2.0 🤭
5hiftyy@reddit
Cheapest way to turbo your NA 3 is to sell it and buy a Speed3
2Drogdar2Furious@reddit
Yea... but I'm stubborn.
UndyingSquid_@reddit
Speed3 gang ❤️
LordBlackass@reddit
i30N traded in immediately
Ekoobs@reddit
I’ll trade my VB in the same day. Really hope this comes to the US but that’s probably a pipe dream lol.
Dan_TheGreat@reddit
ill sell my truck and maybe even my bike and get one. the issue is, with their laughable trim price structure on the wrx, this is gonna be like 60k at least.
MangJuice232@reddit
Def not a pipe dream
Ekoobs@reddit
I sure hope not!
disturbed286@reddit
I'll take your i30N.
Sincerely, an American who didn't get the choice.
Stohnghost@reddit
I had a Speedy then an STi. Honestly, as a daily the Speed3 was so much better. More reliable, better MPG. In a perfect world having both would be cool
rastlun@reddit
Currently rocking a 2012 speed that I bought brand new. I. Love. My. Car. And I'm worried I'll never love another car as much.
Really sucked Mazda refuses to make a true successor
Stohnghost@reddit
I had a 2012 also. I only had a downpipe, fuel pump, and freektune. It was such a cool car.
Zanna-K@reddit
I think the main issue is just how ugly it is. Like I expected slightly more flared fenders, maybe some extra ground effects but otherwise it would look like the VB WRX version of the impreza hatch with a big wing.
Instead it somehow looks like a riced out narrowbody GR STI fucked a Civic Type-R, it's actually quite horrendous even for Subaru lol.
Honestly, though, I don't expect it to really look like that by the time it hits the public. Actually it's really not that bad except for the front end. The hood vents and the scoop look awful as does that weird black bit at the front of the hood. If they just gave it a slightly modified VB WRX front end, it'll be significantly better.
Careless-Ladder-8358@reddit
I think, that is only your personal opinion on how ugly it is. Majority of the fans perceived it as good looking eventhough its not groundbreaking
Lord_Seacow@reddit
Every WRX/STI ever (except maybe the first gen) has been ugly or awkward in some way.
gor134@reddit
The GR Hatch generation looked awesome. It's factory widebody looked straight off a rally car, whereas this concept has tacked on overfenders.
tweekshook@reddit
I recall when I worked at Subaru during the Hatch only years, right as the widebody came out, people didn't like them then. Subaru will always be too early or too late with something, but in the end, they all become generally praised. The "worst" is the Tribeca, but even they have their fans. I wasnt a fan of the new Forester based on pictures, and now I have one.
Car-face@reddit
the GH wasn't a widebody initially for the WRX though - and people complained so much they changed it.
like.... literally anything they do is either not aggressive enough or too aggressive according to a part of the fanbase.
It's just a question of which half they're going to piss off more.
gor134@reddit
The STI was a widebody from day one.
And yes complaints brought the widebody to the WRX.
fhs@reddit
First gen bug eye was disgusting.
Lefthandedsock@reddit
I’d argue that there’s nothing ugly about the Blobeye STI, but I’m sure some people think it’s awkward looking.
Lord_Seacow@reddit
Funny you say that because IMO the Blobeye is the ugliest of all the gens.
Lefthandedsock@reddit
Haha, fair enough. Besides the 1st gen, my favorites are the Blobeye and Hawkeye. Maybe I just have weird taste in Subarus.
Lord_Seacow@reddit
Nah, they are all kinda weird and everyone has their own favorites. I like the 1st gen and bugeyes.
Users5252@reddit
The first gen is probably the ugliest, the original Impreza is literally one of the most boring sedan designs of the 90s
4r4r4real@reddit
Boring and ugly aren't the same thing. Inoffensive isn't ugly it just doesn't excite.
Users5252@reddit
The thing is that it is both boring and ugly, car people just like it because they're conservatives who can only accept old things
4r4r4real@reddit
Yeah this one would look just fine/fit right in if they got rid of the stupid red trim accents and color matched more of the body panels. The hood scoop, wing, and rear bumper look plasticky and cheap as is.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
When will Subaru finally hear us screaming that we hate black plastic cladding? We only been screaming that for 4 years.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
Here’s the thing, the wing is almost certainly going to be reduced for production. It’s just too big the fender, flares ditto I suspect that the production version of this is going to look like the Impreza hatch with the VB’s front end and fender flares on it, however I think that this front bumper is going to be the VB’s facelift for 2027 and that the fender flares are probably gonna go body color.
egowritingcheques@reddit
100% of WRX have been ugly. Some have been aggressive ugly, some quirky ugly, some ugly ugly. Of course a new WRX has to be ugly.
dara321aaa@reddit
This thing is a looker vs the VB
Zanna-K@reddit
Eh I don't know about that, no one thought the VA WRX was ugly - everyone just said it was boring and derivative. For years it was called a Camry with an Evo X-inspired face.
egowritingcheques@reddit
It was ugly.
FlyingArtilleryman@reddit
I like it. Its subaru ugly. My biggest complaint about my 18 wrx is that it kind of looks like a corolla
Tushroom@reddit
The front looks like it took inspiration from a 2010 Ford Focus RS and the back looks like it took inspiration from a Civic Type R. The black stripe across the front of the hood definitely needs some work.
simeddit@reddit
It is quite rotund
Overall-Gap-1672@reddit
As 22 vb owner, this is what I wanted, the hatchback has more room for me and the boys but was only offered in the AU. If they confirmed that the drive train is an sti one that is known to hold 500+, then I would debate trading in my current car, or just buy the dccd, and new STI drive train and put it in the current. Or maybe instead of getting an m107 this next summer (Barrett) then I would put a down payment on one of these unless they ask for like 60k, then I'm just going to get a new dark horse like I originally planned.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
The people on r/WRX can’t say anything nice about any Subaru until it’s been replaced by the next model and then the last model was the best thing ever and the new one is a piece of shit
DreadSwizzard@reddit
I genuinely like what they've shown for the B spec.
Kadehead@reddit
r/WRX is such a drag of a sub they hate everything. They think the VA wrx is god tier even though they all shit on it saying it looked like a civic when it first came out. They say the VB looks like a civic. Now they’re saying this looks like a civic hatch lol. No pleasing them.
mechabeast@reddit
WRX fans want that one guys well done custom WRX they saw driving around that one time, but without the time, effort, and money. Also no one else is allowed to have the same one as them
Zelderian@reddit
The body kit in the rear is a little aggressive for me, but I love the look. It’s literally exactly what people have been begging for for like a decade
Chsenigma@reddit
It absolutely is, and I want it anyway, just the way it is.
willpc14@reddit
Ok, but now they need to come up with excuses as to why they won't buy the car they claimed they would.
ChubbyGirlsPM_MePics@reddit
What excuses? You, and everyone else, knows exactly why people aren't going to buy the cars that they really want.
They can't.
They cannot because after housing, food, and other basic necessities there's no money left.
They want to, but, wages have stagnated while prices are soaring.
People aren't hypocrites. They're struggling to make it through to the next paycheck through the fault of things above their means of influence.
And you know it. Knock it off.
Sorry, but we can't all live in our cars and be nourished by the feel-goods of that boxer rumble.
MK12Mod0SuperSoaker@reddit
Because we just wanted a Levorg STI.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I do not want that long arse boat. I want this more compact wheelbase.
cakezxc@reddit
They’re all SGP based. Wheelbase are all gonna be the same long ass 2670mm. This just has a shorter rear overhang/less boot space.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I was thinking when I wrote that, I should write body length, but it just seem belabored. I mean the Levorg is too long for my tastes. Does not look like a sports car. Looks like a wagon. And wagons sell horribly in the USA, because Americans prefer proper SUVs for family vehicles. There are a few vocal people who want the Levorg in the USA, but unfortunately Americans hate wagons. You can do some googling to learn some of the reasons Americans ostensibly hate wagons.
opeth10657@reddit
Probably be $60-70k if it's actually released.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The convo with the CTO had prices thrown around \~5-6 million yen for the base model (1.8L turbo) and 7 - 8 million yen for the STi (presumably the 2.4L turbo).
improbablydrunknlw@reddit
Because they're actually very poor and will never buy a new cad and will continue to claim their 2nd gen on its second head gasket woth rusted out rockers and trunk drain is the best car Subaru could make.
Lawrence_s@reddit
Oi that's factually incorrect!
My trunk doesn't drain I have to empty it occasionally with a sponge.
FlyingArtilleryman@reddit
If they make it im trading in my '18 WRX
Siguard_@reddit
one of my favorite looking cars was the wrx sti hatchback. I wish this was more fleshed out than a concept, I would have put off buying my Golf R.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Personally I hate the Golf R styling. Too rounded off in the front. Looks gay, not muscle car. Also they just too small in the rear. I can not put all my stuff in the back (computer table, chair, etc) when traveling. Also I am not buying any vehicle with a tablet on the dash. Also isn't a Golf R a DCT transmission which overheats and eventually breaks with too many launches? I just loathe German vehicles, and the German OEMs are going bankrupt so good luck on parts in the future. They are transitioning their factories to making armaments for WWIII.
Siguard_@reddit
When it came to buying a new vehicle, it was down to golf r, a m3, the corolla gr, basically anything awd was the first requirement.
Golf r was enough of a compromise everything I wanted
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Yeah understood, so many compromises on recent choices for new vehicles. That is why we need Subaru to enter the AWD hot hatch market with a twist. To give us more options to choose from. I just kept my 2014 Forester XT and waited. And my wait is about to payoff.
Siguard_@reddit
Unfortunately I cannot wait and it was the most reasonable on fuel costs and cheapest on insurance for me. I like weird looking cars and golf r reminds me of an r33 for some reason on the front
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I have a UK friend who loves the styling Golf wagon. Different strokes for different folks. Thing is though, everything is moving towards that rounded off, slim/slant eye headlights, flying saucer, aerodynamics priority, space age style. Even the GR Corolla and Mazda 3. Thank the Gods Subaru will give us one last retro styled vehicle. After 2030, everything will look like a UFO, EV, drive itself, etc.. This will be the last new vehicle I will ever buy. This is the end of an era. The youth will get their digital 666 panopticon. Heck I am a s/w dev, so I will help implement the transhumanism.
Bombadilo_drives@reddit
As a former owner of WRXs for 10 years, yes it's exactly what I want. I'm shopping at a higher price range now, but if I weren't, this is exactly the car I'd buy.
Ecks83@reddit
If a MT WRX hatch was available last year it would have been on top of the list of new cars I wanted to look into.
I tend to keep my cars for a long time so even if this concept goes to production it will be too late for me but I doubt that I'm the only one who was disappointed that there was no WRX hatch to consider.
Bombadilo_drives@reddit
OK hear me out: manual STI hatch with a b58
9e78@reddit
Same I've always wanted a STI and it just never worked out. Unfortunately anymore it would just be a downgrade to what I'm looking at, so will likely never happen.
Bombadilo_drives@reddit
I may keep a slot open in my garage for one, since I'm in a state that borders Canada and I'm currently looking at 911s, R8s, and M2s but winter is nearly here.
I was planning to go with main car + Miata/Elise, but maybe giving up on the topless and going main car + STI wagon for winter/mud might be even better.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Jeff Bezos drove a $10k vehicle. Porsche is too refined, the thing drives itself. They are too good. I will drive a cheap Japanese vehicle for the reliability no matter how wealthy I am. Salute to Subaru for finally making something decent for those of us who need and want a retro hot hatch.
They need to remove the black plastic cladding and put the WRX front grill and bumper. This front fascia looks off.
Signal_Ball4634@reddit
Yeah I don't see the problem, I've badly wanted a new WRX hatch from Subaru and this fits the bill.
thegunnersdaughter@reddit
WRX hatch would be on the shortlist for me, not STI though. Hopefully if they build this they'll build a WRX hatch too.
Working-Body3445@reddit
People who like it are less likely to comment, soooooo
gropingpriest@reddit
https://old.reddit.com/r/WRX/comments/1oiuwlr/manual_and_sti_drivetrain_confirmed/
this thread is mostly positive or mixed, what am I missing? I don't see the negativity?
Fit_Equivalent3610@reddit
Last evening (my local time) when I made the comment, there were four different threads which were all entirely negative at the time, eg: https://www.reddit.com/r/WRX/comments/1oiuhpv/thoughts_on_the_sti_concepts/
Dan_TheGreat@reddit
Half the people on r/wrx think the vb looks good. These people have no idea.
JBatman1080@reddit
They even called the VB sedan more better than this lmao
TroyFerris13@reddit
Cause that ass end looks like fucking type r garbage
V8-Turbo-Hybrid@reddit
Can’t believe these guy forgotten our Brian drove one before.
jiggajawn@reddit
I have a '13 hatch and I would heavily consider selling it and buying this
Creative_Mix3432@reddit
Wow, look at that wing
Independent-Falcon63@reddit
Absolutely love it
withsexyresults@reddit
Why does this have proportions of a suv
Weary_Chicken6958@reddit
'Cause I'm over 6ft and dot want a concussion when I hit a bump lol
handymanshandle@reddit
Because the Impreza and the Crosstrek have nearly identical bodies? This seems to be heavily based on the new-gen Impreza hatchback, which is very much just a lowered Crosstrek.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
Other way around buddy the crosstrek is a lifted Impreza
handymanshandle@reddit
With this current generation, the Crosstrek took pole position, with the Impreza getting the scraps here.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
Just because it sells better, doesn’t mean it’s not based on the Impreza.
handymanshandle@reddit
That's not what I said. The Crosstrek came first this generation with the Impreza coming after, and by a fair bit, too. The Impreza didn't even end up going on sale until a few months after the Crosstrek did. The Crosstrek is (mostly) sold worldwide while the Impreza has more limited availability (which I believe primarily means Japan, Australia and North America). Much like how the prior generation Legacy and Outback were related but the Outback got more attention from Subaru, the Impreza and Crosstrek are still related, but the Impreza is the backburner car rather than the Crosstrek.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
The Impreza is the basis. The cross track is the sales leader because it makes higher margins and people wanted more. It doesn’t matter which car you think is more popular. The Impreza is the base the cross track is a modified Impreza.
averynicehat@reddit
I've felt that the recent imprezas have started to look fat, like they prioritized the Crosstrek CUV design over Impreza and the Impreza suffered for it since they are so similar.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
I think it’s more so the ride height that makes it look that way, putting the new Impreza hatch next to the old STi hatch shows they are almost identical proportionally.
BigDaddy531@reddit
crosstrek and the hatch impreza are the same chassis minus the "outback" package with the lifted suspension and body cladding
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
A CUV is a lifted hatchback lol...
So that would explain it.
withsexyresults@reddit
Hatchbacks usually have a much lower roofline. That last image of the rear makes this thing look so tall like a suv
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
No, they don’t. In fact, if you didn’t know it already the Crosstrek is literally just an Impreza with a 2 inch lift kit on it.
withsexyresults@reddit
A lot of hot hatches have low roof lines, GRC, CTR, golf r. New sti should aim for the same roofline to avoid looking like suv
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
Well good news! The GR Corolla has a roof height of 57.3 inches. The golf R height is 57.8 inches and the 2025 Impreza RS is 58.1 inches. The WRX has a 5.1 inch ground clearance. The Impreza RS has a 5.4 inch ground clearance so if they drop the STI 0.3 inches then the roof height will be identical to the golf R
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
Here is the side angle.
https://imgur.com/a/RJeyYyw
It is interesting that they reconnected the Impreza and WRX line now after a decade of being separate.
But yea, every past STI hatch has simply been an Impreza hatch.
Drunken_Hamster@reddit
The shoulder line, hood line, and overall roof height are a little bit tall for my taste but that's pretty good.
withsexyresults@reddit
The side angle looks better. Can’t help but see all that black cladding on the bottom to hide some of the tallness
I remember the old sti hatch, that one never gave me suv vibes
geusebio@reddit
It looks so heavy and the wheels look tiny as a result of those huge buffet roll box flairs.It looks a bit silly with that wing too. Like theres 100lb of extra plastic trying to make a crossover look "meaty"
vNocturnus@reddit
Yeah my first thoughts were basically the same. It looks bulky, the wheels look tiny (combined it gives base model Honda Fit proportional vibes), the wing looks ridiculous, and also it's pretty aggressively over-styled.
The side profile looks a lot better than the shots on the OP, but still, that's gotta be one of the ugliest WRX/STIs I've ever seen.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I surmise you guys who have this opinion that it is very ugly probably do not like hot hatches? Presumably you want an STi which is an improved variant of the current WRX sedan.
Because how else are they supposed to design a hot hatch based on an Impreza that would satisfy you? They are not going to go create an entirely new unibody chassis just for an STi. Realistically and budget-wise (for the finance department to approve it for production), it has to be different body panels and Subaru’s unique mix-n-match hardware (engine, transmission, etc) on one of their extant unibody chassis.
Are you wanting it to not be wide-body? The CTO seemed to hint in a brief interview at the event, that maybe they will offer a base variant perhaps with the 1.8L turbo perhaps he meant without the widebody. So then you would have the cleaner lines of the Impreza. But I want the widebody
Should they redesign the front fenders to widen from the top with the vents like on the NBR Challenge? The aftermarket can offer that, but only if the suspension has been offered in a wide-body. But I am afraid it might make the vehicle look ridiculous, like a box.
I understand the tires look slightly swallowed. I wonder if they could make the diameter 1” taller? But it might not work without redesigning the wheel wells and thus the Impreza chassis, which probably would not make sense financially. But for me the wheels do not look ridiculously small. Looks fine from most angles. Maybe in the aftermarket people can try +1 size wheel and tire combinations with some minor rubbing?
Seriously what would you change in the design for the hot hatch?
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Are you not also describing the very popular GR Corolla? So what, you want Subaru to make another Impreza or WRX sedan which both are not selling well?
If they remove the wide-body and hood scoop, then I am no longer interested. And I am 60 years old. I agree on removing the black plastic cladding and the front fascia looks too much SUV/CUV so needs to be redone. I do not need that wing, hopefully optional.
KanterBama@reddit
While I agree it looks heavy, my first thought was it looks like “mom can we have WRC?”.
degggendorf@reddit
They had to add all the cladding to hide that it's a Hyundai Veloster
Genericwood@reddit
Wasn't the VA just a modified impreza frame anyways? I remember on the VA some body panel parts were interchangeable.
I know the 1st gen 86s are based on the impreza chassis as well.
teen_ofdenial@reddit
I think even the new gen of the twins is on a hacked up 3rd gen chassis.
beamdriver@reddit
That's nice. Just make everything body color please.
iBUYbrokenSUBARUS@reddit
That is the most beautiful thing Subaru has made in over a decade.
Working-Body3445@reddit
That's sad lol
Substantial-Oil7569@reddit
The side profile looks fuckin' sweet. I just bought my WRX, but I'm glad to see Subaru making this.
SilverBackGuerilla@reddit
Oh man, this makes me miss my old wrx wagon.
youra6@reddit
Omg this is basically the old GR gen WRX hatchback circa 2011-2014. I had one. Would buy this in a instant
Ran4@reddit
That largely isn't true for most CUVs. They have huge wheels which means less interior space.
Cessnaporsche01@reddit
The consumers yearn for high centers of gravity
V8-Turbo-Hybrid@reddit
They probably want their car with more rally style. When Subaru still raced WRC, their last rally model was hatchback body.
willpc14@reddit
All I can see is an HRV with lowering springs
Wizard_Healer@reddit
It looks cool but damn we gotta stop making big ass cars, what happened to smaller sports cars that can actually fit in the garage 😭
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
This is a relatively small car...
The Impreza hatch that this is based on is very very small.
xilentkha0s@reddit
Assuming that's how production model will look I would definitely consider getting one. The only other factor now is price considering the WRX prices have stepped in for last gen STi slot. My guess is starting MSRP would be around $56k minimum.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The CTO in an interview seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yen). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
xilentkha0s@reddit
2.4L would be ideal. You know what they say.. there's no replacement for displacement.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I viewed a follow-up video released 3 days ago out of Japan of an interview with a Subaru design engineer. They all but confirmed my expectation that there will be an entry level variant with a smaller turbo engine (e.g. CB18 or FA20) and the STi will presumably get the FA24 (or maybe only the FA20?).
Thus I think we will be getting something nice and appreciable. Kudos to Subaru.
I do agree with others urging that Subaru should also produce an STi variant of the sedan with the DCCD and STi transmission.
Eagerly awaiting the production release. And hoping they make these vehicles available globally, as I might be in Philippines or Ecuador by then. (Currently residing in USA and Mexico)
ConstantCars@reddit
Enthusiasts are never happy. Subaru finally teases what everyone has supposedly been wanting since the last hatch and the comments section is full of criticism.
Which will quickly be replaced with: “check out my new Subaru” it’s awesome about 6 months after this is released.
oscooter@reddit
It was the same with the VB WRX. Got announced and it got clowned on. Now it’s just post after post of people hyped about buying one. Haters gonna hate I suppose.
hashedmotatoes@reddit
I'm happy, and I'm already building the purchase into my financial plans.
AlfaZagato@reddit
Since when have Subaru fanboys been calling for an STI Crossover?
WaveFearless3@reddit
What they need to do is step 1 make a new hatchback. 2014 hatch body was already perfect so keep it. Step 2 keep symmetrical awd Step 3 modernize the inline 6 speed engine used in the mk4 supra and adapt it to work stock with the subaru 6 speed and awd. ( to hell with the 276 hp agreement 300 h to wheels is just fine.) Step 4 keep pricepoint at 40k or below Step 5 keep the car parts supported for 100 years and make stupid profits.
Car companies now a days just don't get it...
PepperThyAngus@reddit
Thank fuck they got rid of those plastic wheel arches.
Too bad they didn't upgrade the infotainment to the Outback one.
VictoryIcy3493@reddit
They should get rid of the pointless hood scoop
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
What are you talking about? This is literally the exact same infotainment system that’s in the outback. The outback and the WRX and the Impreza have nearly identical dashboards already.
PepperThyAngus@reddit
You need to lookup the new Outback
https://www.caranddriver.com/photos/g64477839/2026-subaru-outback-interior-gallery/
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I wish I hadn’t… That is atrocious looking. I am so fucking sick of them just slapping screens on and having them poke up from the dash like somebody suction cup an iPad there. The WRX and current Impreza look infinitely better than that abomination, they at least look like the interior was designed with the intention of a screen being there and look cohesive that looks like somebody designed an interior and then somebody else came behind them and said did you forget you need to put a screen there and they’re like oh fuck it this looks good enough.
thetimechaser@reddit
I hate the standard Subaru infotainment. It looks lazy and cheap, and just generally a visual eyesore that dominates the dash.
Human_Skirt5108@reddit
Nah, outback infotainment sucks ass. It’s better to just let us upgrade and put that money elsewhere.
KSoMA@reddit
Neither the Impreza nor Levorg that this is based on have the gray wheel arches, so no reason this would either.
subiedream@reddit
Seriously they need to separate the climate control like the new outback and soltera
10000Didgeridoos@reddit
Almost like it's a concept and this interior has nothing to do with whatever the actual car will look like inside years from now?
subiedream@reddit
I mean I get it's a concept and I love the car it's just way too similar to an Impreza hatch. I expected something a little more creative.
Loyo321@reddit
What did you expect though? The WRX and STI has always been an Impreza with a wide body and beefed up drive train. Did you expect a completely different chassis in this day and age when Subaru makes most of their money selling Foresters and Crosstreks?
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Yeah these people have no conceptualization of finance. No way Subaru could give us a STi if it was not just slightly different body panels on an existing vehicle. They would lose too much money on the tooling, R&D, etc..
the_joy_of_VI@reddit
I mean, a Subaru WRX STi is usually an Impreza, no?
india2wallst@reddit
I know the touchscreen is like a windows 95 tablet but at this point I'll take it.
10000Didgeridoos@reddit
What do you mean too bad they didn't upgrade the infotainment? It's a concept dude, this isn't a final interior, it's parts bin stuff they stuck in there for the sake of it.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Road & Tracks has the photos.
Crazy-Monitor3228@reddit
Idc id buy for sure as long as they don’t put plastic fenders 😭
LegendaryOutlaw@reddit
I like it, a little boy-racer but I don’t mind that. But I can’t help be reminded of those plastic hood deflectors from the 90s when I look at the front grille here.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The rear wing needs to be toned down a bit, but aftermarket can handle that.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I suspect it will be for production. My bet is that for production. This loses the louvers on either side of the hood scoop. It loses the center exit exhaust, and the wing gets shrunk down a little bit.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Conversation about estimates of pricing and the prospects for a $35 - 40k entry-level model.
I speculate they retain the center exhaust for the top-of-the-line STi model to compete with the Type R.
https://imgur.com/a/IpiGoqp
Readers might wish to read my analysis of comparative AWD systems.
https://www.reddit.com/r/cars/comments/1oiv7nm/comment/nmbqixs/?context=3
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I guarantee you the lowest trim level STI is going to be a MINIMUM of $45,000 to equal the GT and TS trim level of the WRX. Center exit exhaust looks good on a show car but Subaru STI‘s have always had dual exit dual tip exhaust and I really hope they don’t change that just because of a current trend, especially because it means more tubing, more complexity, and more weight.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The entry level for \~$40k will ostensibly be a WRX hatch to complete with the GR Corolla price point, with the VTD center diff, performance CVT (as is the case for the sedan WRX) but not the DCCD and front/read LSD, which only the 6MT STi will get. STi probably \~$55+k. If we are lucky $50k but I doubt it.
If the entry level gets a 5MT option, then it will be that horrible viscous symmetrical AWD in the WRX sedan. I say horrible, because I intend to use it off-road as the rally car and go-anywhere sports car that differentiates it from a Honda Type R which can go nowhere but yuppie-land or the race track.
You have a point about the center exhaust. Probably the dual exhaust works better with the styling of the Impreza as well. I really do not care about the exhaust. My main pain points are:
I need at least VTD center diff so I can climb the rough mountain road to my house. Viscous or clutch plates (i.e. what the GR Corolla has) will get burned up.
If they give it that CUV-Forester-Layback front grill and fascia, I probably will nevermind.
Physical knobs for everything. That horrible tablet in the recent Subarus is abhorrent and is a massive safety hazard.
If the pre-collision braking has to be turned off every damn time I start the vehicle, then I am not buying it. That crap is dangerous. It can slam on the brakes going 50 MPH when it gets confused by a road sign or telephone pole too close to the side of the road. Subaru is going to get sued eventually.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I don’t really think you understand anything about the current WRX. Why would they put a five speed manual when the sedan has a six speed? Why would a base WRX be $40,000 when the base WRX is already only $33,000? Making it on the hatchback body style would only reduce the cost to Subaru because it’s the exact same shell that is used for the Crosstrek which is the volume sales leader, they literally sold 10 Crosstrek for every single WRX sold last year and that doesn’t even include the Impreza sales
Also, you didn’t insinuate anything you just didn’t explain anything clearly and your comment very clearly indicates that the price you were talking about was for an STI. It’s not our fault that you did not explain yourself clearly.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Typo on the 5-spd MT. I meant the non-STi 6-spd.
I have actually written in numerous comments that the base hatch could be $35 - 40k to compete with the GR Corolla. Click my Reddit profile to review my comment history. There is no more base WRX anymore, so entry level is \~$37k including the destination fee.
Should I apologize for your abysmal reading comprehension. What was your SAT score? Mine was in the 99th percentile.
As for the economies-of-scale cost argument, some have argued that Impreza RS and WRX are manufactured in Japan, even though the Crosstrek is manufactured in Louisiana (USA). Thus your illogic may not hold. We will soon see if tariffs are no longer applicable. See bud, there are more moving parts (variables) to this analysis (equation). I think they still sell thinking caps at the Dollar General?
My prior reply was not snide. I was just asking you to please not put words into my mouth incorrectly. Your reply is snide, so I have responded in kind as you deserve.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
How insecure are you about your own intelligence that you feel the need to speak in the manner you do? This entire sub Reddit is overrun with insecure group think minded individuals who can’t be bothered to do anything but parrot what they’ve been told by other people who are parenting what they’ve been told it really is sad how far this sub and the entire car culture has fallen recently.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Typo on the 5-spd MT. I meant the non-STi 6-spd.
I have actually written in numerous comments that the base hatch could be $35 - 40k to compete with the GR Corolla. Click my Reddit profile to review my comment history. There is no more base WRX anymore, so entry level is \~$37k including the destination fee.
Should I apologize for your abysmal reading comprehension. What was your SAT score? Mine was in the 99th percentile.
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fitMINT@reddit
Yea I want them to chill that out too.
withsexyresults@reddit
Nah the aftermarket will always make a bigger wing
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Yeah. Anyway, the wing can be removed, replaced. So no worries.
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
Tbf, when the original 2015 STI came out with that massive wing, it was also very very controversial.
I think the massive wing has become a characteristic of STI's.
spaztwelve@reddit
First STI model year (in the US) was 2004.
RealSprooseMoose@reddit
It's a concept, so it likely will be.
MY13FXT@reddit
IDK, it gives me those vibes of seeing blobeye STis with massive rear wings nobody asked for. Definitely the immediate (exterior) differentiator between the two when they shared a platform.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I think that that’s a little bit of intentional disguise. I think that the bit of black paint on the tip of the nose is there to disguise the true shape of the grill because I think this front end is the WRX‘s upcoming facelift front end
deezmcgee@reddit
This is everything I want an STI to look like. To me, the boy-racer look is part of the STI. Give me ridiculous fender flairs, a bit wing, the STI six speed and some more power and I'm sold.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The CTO in an interview seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yet). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
Jewniversal_Remote@reddit
That's exactly what I feel too, that upper grille piece makes me really uncomfortable. I bet if the entire hood was that color/material it would blend in and look great, but just that gray strip makes it really look like a bug deflector :/
bcneil@reddit
I owned an 05 STI from 2007-2020. Loved that car. The main things keeping me from a new WRX, is it's transmission and AWD system. As well as the looks to a degree. The engine is fine, it can be modified to adequate levels of power. TR brakes are fine. Tires/wheels and suspension, all things I would eventually change anyways.
So this new STI might fix this, Especially if the engine itself is upgraded, not just the wrx with a couple extra pounds of boost. I am guessing it will have 320hp. Which some people will think is not enough. But its a blessing in disguise. If they make it 400+ they would charge the moon for them.
bitch_kassidy@reddit
As a driver of a 2015 mk7 GTI, I'd trade it to get the STI hatch (I am in love with the hatch design). Let's hope Subaru dealers do not kill this car like Nissan dealers killed the Z35 with their stupid markups.
2cars10@reddit
Front overhang of doom and despair. Joking aside it looks good
Eggonioni@reddit
FUCK they genuinely have everything in that, just the immediately dated interior but that's no issue it's mostly functional anyway.
pq11333@reddit
Dated interior or cheap af interior is subarus specialty. I still couldnt believe how nasty and cheap the subaru interior was in 2009 when i sat in one at the dealer. I genuinely couldnt believe it ahaha ahahahahahhaha ahahahhajahaahahahahahahahahahhahahaha
Careless-Ladder-8358@reddit
and that was 2009. Nowadays, they are good. But fck that, I drive a Subaru because others drive like shit and uninvolving ahahaha
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Thank the Gods there is still one OEM that isn’t putting a wrap around digital screen where the gauge cluster used to me. I do agree though the 2009 interior was not great. The interior in my 2014 Forester XT is perfect for me. I do not want digital screens. The current interior was fine with the analog gauge cluster except for that huge tablet occupying the entire center, which also gets a lot of glare from sunlight. I wish the could offer a smaller screen option like they had on the base WRX in 2022, but with round dials and improve the resolution and quality of the screen. Some of us are just find with Google Maps on a mobile phone, thus a small screen is more than adequate, less intrusive, less annoying blue light and leaves more space for haptic-feedback round dials. But I am dreaming. I know Subaru will not bother to engineer that. Hey I will work for free for them if they need a software engineer to help them implement it.
I_Am_Vladimir_Putin@reddit
What do you consider dated? A modern interior is full of screens, but absolutely fuck that, it will age like garbage.
MangJuice232@reddit
No screens and minimal tech in my G35 coupe is aging like a fine wine. Love how analog it looks especially at night.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Driving is an analog experience.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Please do not downvote me, but at 60 years old I want the old interior. I would be much happier if no digital gauge cluster, analog dials and no tablet screen. So I guess neither of us get exactly what we want. But at least we get the major items we share a desire for?
india2wallst@reddit
There is something charming about the BRZ interior. I actually like the chunky looks lol
Shmokesshweed@reddit
Front looks unfinished and lazy.
mklimbach@reddit
It's a concept car. By definition, it's unfinished.
quikskier@reddit
The grill and the blacked out top edge of the bumper are what is ruining it for me.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Is this better?
https://www.reddit.com/r/WRX/comments/1oive5n/comment/nm8uh80/?context=3
Click over to see the photo. Can not post images here.
quikskier@reddit
Much. Feels like they were trying to just make the grill look bigger unnecessarily.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Agreed the front grill looks worse than an Impreza. Everything else looks good.
Hectic_Habibs_Commo@reddit
In true Subaru fashion, fucking hideous.
How hard is it to just remake the GR. That remains one of the best looking hatches on the road.
Trades46@reddit
I swear I'm the only one who actually thinks the Concept B looks amazing. The back end looks a little busy and the rear wing is just a smidge too big, but I dig the profile, the wide-body (thankfully body colored) stance, the wheels, and the fact we have a possible STI production hatch on the way.
One of my biggest automotive regrets was cancelling an order for a VA STI back in the day just before COVID shutdowns begun. Once lockdowns lifted I was in between jobs and once I was financially stable again Subaru already discontinued the STI.
If Subaru actually commits to production, I would be super tempted to go into the dealer again.
zerosystem03@reddit
Hoping the final production will look cleaner and more cohesive but hoping this sees light of day. It will be fun to see how it matches up against a golf R and GRC
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
My guess is that final production loses all of the black accents on the hood that the spoiler gets toned down that it loses the louvers on you other side of the hood scoop in the center exit exhaust. It might even lose these fender, flares for slightly larger versions of whatever the facelift WRX ends up with which I suspect are going to be body colored.
india2wallst@reddit
German cars are super clinical. They rely so much on trick electronics. While I don't mind it, I just think the mechanical nature of Japanese cars is also another legitimate approach to make cars. Id probably get this wrx if the markups don't exist.
zerosystem03@reddit
Yea definitely. I've owned or driven a bunch of them and they feel very solid in a luxury and serious kind of way. Crazy to say but I get more emotion out of driving Japanese cars than even Porsches
ThetaGrim@reddit
Funny people are just finding out now what the new Impreza looks because of the STI announcement when shots of the Impreza was released months earlier.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
Shots were released?? My brother in Christ, the things’s been on the road for two years.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I was stating this is exactly what it would be. HeavyMetalWRX and I were in a running feud about my prediction past months. I said the April Fools specs would be the STi specs. You can find his episode about the April Fools leak of the specs.
iatekane@reddit
Because nobody cares about the Impreza so nobody saw what it looks like haha
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
That truth hurts I took my RS to Subiefest Tx autocross and a ton of the other drivers kept asking me about it. A lot of the guys said they loved the look but it not having a manual was the dealbreaker for them.
THALANDMAN@reddit
This looks very production-ready. Basically the interior of a VB WRX with the DCCD. Very curious about the specs on it. Intake and a tune on a VB WRX gets you close to 330whp. Limiting factor in the current WRX has been the transmission but this coming from the factory with an STI transmission is going to make things very interesting.
Legitimate-Lab9077@reddit
I agreed that this looks mostly production ready. I would be willing to bet that it loses the hood louvers and the center exit exhaust, and that the spoiler is reduced in size for production, but other than that, I could see this sitting on the showroom floor. Also, as for the powertrain, I’d be willing to bet that it’s the exact same FA 24F out of the WRX with a 75-ish horsepower hybrid system bolted to it bringing the total power to about 350. Subaru was very open and honest about the fact that the reason a new STI didn’t debut with a new WRX in 2022 was that they couldn’t meet fuel efficiency regulations and they’ve also been very clear that the VA was going to be the last purely internal combustion STI they ever make.
bazbloom@reddit
Subaru has a long and storied history of rolling out production models that look nothing like (and much worse than) their "production-ready" concepts.
This particular concept needs some polish, but it would be quite the departure if the production model somehow resembles this.
Most_Power2229@reddit
Having owned 2 of these, I think DCCD ruins the car. The two exceptions are snow or certain low traction situations. It’s too bulky and I think needlessly contributes to drag and performance loss. If you literally bought this car for a DIRT TRACK, it makes sense. Otherwise it actually drives like crap.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Isn't that the idea of the STi? To be harsh and performance oriented? The FL5 Type R is also harsh even on the least sporty mode.
Most_Power2229@reddit
But it’s harsh and just isn’t THAT performance oriented. The AWD system has so much drag that it suffers from bog. There’s the reason the evo consistently beat it on tarmac— it was built like a performance car and not a tractor. I have ZERO traction issues from my Golf R and can drive it hard. That new vectoring rear LCD really allows you to rotate in corners.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Thanks for interacting with me on this, given you have indicated your first-hand experience with both and I do not. I am a (software) engineer forming an attempted understanding based solely only the theory. I think all of us could benefit with an attempt to better understand, explain and demystify these different AWD systems, given that the explanations I have found online are confusing and do not really distill it down to relatable terms and concepts. I had looked into this in the recent past and afair I didn’t write down my findings and probably didn’t fully form my understanding.
I vaguely remember a wife’s online comments about riding in her husband’s STi, that it was quite harsh, noisy, clanky or insinuating a visceral sense of the gearing in the mechanical LSDs (front, rear and center). Which seems to be what you are also describing? A video review concurs that the STi is noisier, but the sound in the video doesn’t convey well how drastic or not that difference is.
A key difference between the STi DCCD AWD and Toyota’s GR-FOUR or Honda’s SH-AWD, is the former has a dynamic, mechanical LSD center differential to modulate the torque split and the latter instead statically accelerate the rear drive shaft (0.7% in the case of the GR Corolla) and utilize a center LSD clutch pack to modulate the torque split.
So it is not surprising that in the STi you sense the mechanical LSD interaction more as that is apparently intentional in the design, c.f. also the “English Version” technical document linked from Subaru AWD System Fully Explained.
(Note I am stilling writing this. I want to post what I have thus far so I do not lose it if my laptop browser crashes)
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Had to continue this as a separate comment as I hit some limit on the prior comment…
P.S. The Evo was definitely faster around the track compared to the STi (need to find a link to a video comparison which I had watched) which was primarily apparently due to less torque steering (tire squeal) of the Evo given its active, left-to-right torque (split) vectoring with the active (i.e. not passive, mechanical) rear differential, which neither the STi or the GR Corolla have (the brake torque vectoring is not nearly as performant). Some of the Honda SH-AWD have active torque vectoring. Those active rear differentials are performant on the track, but add complexity, could fail out in the middle of nowhere (what a Subaru is made for is go anywhere, anytime, any conditions), they’re not as durable, less suited for 24 hour rally in harsh conditions and will overheat, as compared to a mechanical LSD.
Subaru is not primarily intended for city-slickers who intend to be tethered to the city at all times. Subaru is designed to be durable under harsh conditions, which you sort of alluded to. But it is not just applicable to the extreme use cases, but perhaps some people just want the assurance that their STi AWD is still going to be durable at 100,000 miles. One vlogger who has owned numerous Subarus said their systems are over designed to not fail and not overheat, unlike the AWD systems from other OEMs.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
…continued as a follow-up comment as I hit some limit on the prior comment…
P.S.S. The Evo was definitely faster around the track compared to the STi (need to find a link to a video comparison which I had watched, Edit here is the video) which was primarily apparently due to less torque steering (tire squeal) of the Evo given its active, left-to-right torque (split) vectoring with the active (i.e. not passive, mechanical) rear differential, which neither the STi or the GR Corolla have — their brake torque vectoring is not nearly as performant as active rear diff torque vectoring. Some of the Honda SH-AWD have active torque vectoring. Those active rear differentials are performant on the track, but add complexity, could fail out in the middle of nowhere (what a Subaru is made for is go anywhere, anytime, any conditions), they’re not as durable, less suited for 24 hour rally in harsh conditions and will overheat, as compared to a mechanical LSD.
Subaru is not primarily intended for city-slickers who intend to be tethered to the city at all times. Subaru is designed to be the “Swiss army knife” durable under harsh conditions, which you sort of alluded to. But it is not just applicable to the extreme use cases, but perhaps some people just want the assurance that their STi AWD is still going to be durable at 100,000 miles (←listen all the way to 13:30 for the punch line). One vlogger who has owned numerous Subarus said their systems are over designed to not fail and not overheat, unlike the AWD systems from other OEMs.
um3i@reddit
The only thing I don’t like about this is that damn iPad infotainment system lol everything else I’d honestly buy one cause it’s a sick hatch!
JonAqua3_16V@reddit
If this new B sti sell high, will they make another sti in the future. This hatch back looks amazing good.
DudeWhereIsMyDuduk@reddit
I like the looks. It's ostentatious, but that's the point.
kiakosan@reddit
I would buy this ASAP if they would release it like this.
1v1meAtLagunaSeca@reddit
That thing fucks
rallyimprezive@reddit
The side shot of the front end makes it look very tall. The amount of “chunk” between the front wheel and the top of the hood is excessive. Too bad…
November87@reddit
Literally everything in this is s concept. Nothing is confirmed included DCCD
rxh0272@reddit
I’ve been waiting like 15 years for the next generation STI, but got a ‘22 VB bc Subaru said no more STI, which pretty much pissed me off, but I got a VB anyway. This time they better release it, and it better be affordable, and then I’ll trade in my VB. If Subaru pulls another stunt of … oh look at this STI we aren’t making … I will never buy a Subaru for the rest of my life. And, if they do release it, it better have at least 400hp, which is what I have right now and is a modest tune.
custardbun01@reddit
vonslik@reddit
Bet they don’t make it and then actually make some horrendous crossover hahaha
TFiPW@reddit
The DCCD selector tells us that:
1: they moulded/modified the centre console to fit a
2: They made the conscious decision to use the existing physical DCCD selector/controller from the parts bin vs having it in the infotainment or gauge cluster, which would've been cheaper.
Is their parts supplier still making these? Are they preparing to make more, or is this new old stock? Subaru would definitely have put the DCCD in the touch screen, a la X-MODE or in the gauge cluster, if they weren't able to produce the controller.
Reception has been generally warm on SNS (Reddit, IG), the GRC was a runaway hit, to the point where Toyota had to increase production, so there is a likely chance this will get green-lit.
My biggest concern would be the price. STi used to be $39,495 CAD in 2018, which is $48,711 CAD in 2025. The WRX tS is $47,995 CAD, MY26 GRC is $51,421 CAD and the Golf R is $54k. If it's happening, I'm not holding my breath for a sub $50k price.
TFiPW@reddit
That DCCD selector tells a lot:
1: they moulded/modified the centre console to fit a
2: using existing parts saves money. Taking something like that into consideration doesn't seem on-brand with a concept.
3: They made the decision to have a physical DCCD selector vs having it in the infotainment.
This concept was made to see if the public wants another STi hatch. IMO there was no business case from a leadership perspective for another STi hatch, until the GR Corolla was a sales hit.
I remember when the 4th gen came out, people complained about it not being a hatch and still using the same EJ motor. New goalpost is gonna be the touch HVAC. The interior in the new WRX is much better than the GR Corolla.
DangTobascoSauce@reddit
Its cool. But lets be realistic. In 2021 the base sti costed $37k. In 2025, the cheapest wrx model is $37k. However, the most expensive wrx in 2025 is 47k. That means this sti HAS to be priced above 55k.
Astramael@reddit
I think this is correct. Which means people are going to say it’s too expensive and they won’t buy it, and then people will complain that the interior is too cheap for a $60K car so they won’t buy it, and so on.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Price will be a huge factor. And the CFO spoke about that.
If the base variant looks like the following for $40k, it will sell.
Here is a rendering of what would look better for the front. I got this from a comment post on Facebook.
https://imgur.com/ec6wFdJ
https://i.imgur.com/ec6wFdJ.png
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
FYI, the CTO in an interview seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yen). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
Bunstrous@reddit
That's literally just an Impreza hatchback.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I might be speculating too much from what the CFO (not CTO) said in the brief interview, but he seemed to be hinting it could possibly have a 1.8L turbo. The Impreza has never had a turbo.
Well in terms of the body shape, I did entertain the same thought as you, and my internal thought was maybe they might still flare the fenders but more subdued akin to the S209. And of course the front is different than the Impreza (and so far consensus seems to be that not in a good way, so let's hope they redesign that daft front).
Note I like the WRX headlights and I like the hood (other than the daft text on it which would not be on the production model). But that SUV/CUV style from fascia is not going to evoke a sports car nor rally. Fix that Subaru!!
spaztwelve@reddit
Yeah. That's what performance cars cost now.
costafilh0@reddit
Save the manuals! Nice!
costafilh0@reddit
How big do you want the wing to be?
YES
brickpaul65@reddit
If it is 400hp, I am in.
Capital-Water2505@reddit
The spoiler has to go, but other than that I like it a lot
rubbitkai@reddit
It's an Impreza, and that's what I like about it. That's the original idea of the first STIs. I just hope that in the production version the look will be less cluttered and childish. The wheels don't connect with the overall look, the rear wing is too big and the black square on the hood, and the black roof looks goofy
-Altephor-@reddit
MAKE CARS SMALLER PLEASE. Hatchback looks like a goddamn SUV/Minivan combo. Gross.
phenomenalVibe@reddit
Has some FN2 look to it. I dig it.
Conflicted_Batman@reddit
GR Corolla competitor? Praying rally hatches become an industry trend.
KompressHER@reddit
I’m looking around for two things and I’ve landed on this page but do we know a estimated price and stock horsepower for the B?
Successful_Ad_9707@reddit
Nothing yet.
Veyron109@reddit
It's like Subaru did everything I wanted, but wrapped it in a very...weird package. It's got the hatch, a proper STI 6 speed, the flared fenders, a big wing and we've learned to paint our fender flares again! But, a strange over bite on the hood, oddly squinting headlights, a very tall profile, what look like tiny wheels, and strange overall proportions are making me somewhat unsure about it.
Coming from a history of WRX and STIs and currently driving a '13 STI hatchback, I'm genuinely not sure if I love or hate it, but the side profile does looks excellent.
smartsmrt@reddit
Subaru: Just tell me the HP and torque it's going to have
GeoffKingOfBiscuits@reddit
I like it but I can't afford a new car anymore.
D_E_A_D_P_O_O_L_@reddit
Just watch it when they release it only in Japan with a limited production of 3000 units.
mantenner@reddit
They just keep makin cars look worse. Somebody stop them.
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
I mean, this is exactly what everyone on Reddit wanted.
Painted fender flares
Hatchback
6 speed manual.
DCCD.
STI transmission.
mantenner@reddit
Yeah don't get me wrong it ticks all the boxes, except that it looks like a fat blob CUV knock-off. This could pass for a lowered outback.
AltruisticMobile4606@reddit
Why care so much about styling and looks when the actual fun of the car is had behind the wheel where you can see none of it?
mantenner@reddit
You know cars can be good looking and fun right? They certainly used to be, and you as a consumer should want both for your hard earned money.
AltruisticMobile4606@reddit
Why exactly should I want both when for me the part of the car that delivers the real tangibly fun experience is the driving? If it does that well then how it looks shouldn’t really matter in my opinion
mantenner@reddit
I do get what you're saying, and completely fair point. I personally just don't like how it looks and in my mind I should enjoy the aesthetics of a vehicle as well as it's driving feel.
Even saying that, it's not like it has many competitors to choose from, so can't really go elsewhere I guess. The Golf R and that's about it?
Successful_Ad_9707@reddit
The GRC is much closer competition than the Golf
AltruisticMobile4606@reddit
GR Corolla too I suppose
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
Well yes, atleast in the Subaru world, the CUV is the Crosstrek.
Which is just a lifted impreza hatchback.
And this is built on the Impreza hatchback.
So of course it is going to look like that.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
The only way we were getting this if they could just tweak an existing vehicle.
Aero06@reddit
It's just strange that Subaru seems to be retreading their missteps with the third-gen WRX, which was initially considered ugly and pedestrian, then facelifted and given better widebody fenders with the release of the STI version, which was only sold as a hatch, before they finally got their ducks in a row and offered it as a both a sedan and a hatchback.
hi_im_bored13@reddit
I love the look of this, proper boy racer
mantenner@reddit
It's hilariously fat, like round/large, it borderline looks like a CUV.
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
https://imgur.com/a/RJeyYyw
mantenner@reddit
I like it better from that angle
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Camera perspective can vary considerably.
Cool-Block-6451@reddit
Flat bottom wheels are stupid and unnecessary in any car that isn't a literal race car when there is a human packaging issue.
Thunder_Wasp@reddit
And it's a hatch, which I love. The wing is wild, but I respect the risk taking.
2002RSXTypeS@reddit
Rip to va STI resale value. 😭
hdzaviary@reddit
I really missed the WRX hatchback. I would love to have this car in EU, I almost never see a WRX here.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
As far as I know only the USA rolled back the EPA mandates recently. EU and Australia do not allow this level of emissions anymore.
hdzaviary@reddit
Ahh that explains why only a couple Subaru models are available but not WRX.
In my home country getting Subaru was a bit complicated as the sole importer got into trouble with the authority.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Apologies for posting this numerous times, but many threads of discussion about the potential pricing and configurations.
The CTO in an interview at the event seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yen). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
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gtan1204@reddit
I actually like this more than 18 wrx
bakedvoltage@reddit
What’re the odds of them doing this in a WRX trim too? I don’t think I’d have STI money but man I’d love a new WRX hatch.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Apologies for posting this numerous times, but many threads of discussion about the potential pricing and configurations.
The CTO in an interview at the event seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yen). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
Hawd_it@reddit
Is this coming to the UK?
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I was thinking your zero emissions targets will not allow it. But I am now sharing the following based on a video interview I watched.
The CTO in an interview seemed to be hinting they will make a base model variant without the widebody and with the 1.8L turbo at a much lower price (\~5 - 6 million yen). The STI will be presumably the FA20-T or FA24-T and the number that was tossed around was 7 - 8 million yen. Maybe some markets with more stringent emissions regs (EPA recently rolled back the emissions which enabled Subaru to make this) will only get the 1.8L turbo? E.g. Australia?
NappyFlickz@reddit
One thing that sucks about cars getting so big is that crossovers, hatches, wagons and some SUV's all are roughly the same size.
Love the design language, but it's just too tall. Looks like a crossover to me moreso.
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
There is the GR Corolla, which is quite a bit smaller, issue is you lose a lot of rear seat room where it is pretty uncomfortable to fit passengers on long trips.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
I do not know why you were downvoted, but I concur. I need that \~178“L so I can cart my computer table and chair around. Also I sleep prone in the rear on road trips. Budget motels in the USA are mostly run down, roach infested. Much more convenient to just pull over and sleep. Also believe it or not, at age 60, I have young child. I want a vehicle that doubles as a family vehicle and a sports car experience. The GR Corolla is too cramped in the rear (seating especially). And I do not want a 3-banger. And personally I hate the rounded front styling on the Corolla and Golf R. And I absolutely hate that huge Jaws shark mouth grill on Toyota and Lexus. Awful. Additionally the AWD on the GR Corolla is inferior for off-road/rally. I drive a lot in the Western USA and Baja California.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
Need to see in person it sits almost identical in proportion to the old STi hatch.
Orion1021@reddit
Was not expecting them to ever come out with a hatch STI again. It looks boy racer and I love it.
RaphaelAmbroCosteau@reddit
oh fuck I mught have to trade in my gti or gr86 for this if this actually becomes available stateside. still having hopes for a mazda 3 turbo hatch in manual too
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
Mazda 3 regressed with a sold rear axle in the latest gen. I know many people will disagree if I state that I hate the styling of the rear of that hatchback. No visibility and the C-pillar dominates like a Baby Got Back.
The_Strom784@reddit
Yeah I honestly have no clue what Mazda is doing besides their crossovers.
They have the right bones to make at least a pseudo Mazdaspeed. Like the M340i where it's not the best they could do but it has some performance chops. But they have to make their seventh crossover that overlaps completely with the model that is below it.
alonjit@reddit
Well, they have their Mazda3 GT, manual, which they say can get 230HP with 93 gas. But accepts 87 (190 HP). Plenty of power if you ask me.
No idea how their transmission is like though, haven't driven one.
Type_Writer_6942@reddit
Looks great. Lose the wing and ground effects and they'll sell very well.
akaneel@reddit
Please give it an optional DCT. PLEASE NO CVT
dontbeslo@reddit
So happy this got released. Wonder why it came so much later vs the VB but happy to see it released nonetheless.
This is everything Subaru fans have been asking for.
Sad-Temperature-5363@reddit
We only got this ostensibly because of changes to the emission regulations. As far as I know only the USA rolled back the EPA mandates recently. EU and Australia do not allow this level of emissions anymore.
dontbeslo@reddit
Conspiracy theorist in me also believes that Subaru’s Toyota overlords didn’t want this released too close to the GR Corolla. This will likely be a much better car for the segment
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india2wallst@reddit
Id buy it
466rudy@reddit
$82,000?! This monstrosity costs $82,000?!
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
Where in gods name did you pull that number from. There’s no announcement on price.
466rudy@reddit
The Simpsons
IRENE420@reddit
What is DCCD? I’ve never heard of that acronym before.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
Driver Controlled Center Differential, essentially allows you to change the torque split front and rear on command.
Astramael@reddit
Not correct. The torque split is fixed 40/60 or so if I remember correctly. It changes the amount of lockup in the centre differential.
At 100%, the front and rear wheels are locked together, like a 4WD car sort of. This provides fantastic traction but cannot be used in high traction situations.
This is distinct from a solution like the GR Corolla which does let you move the torque distribution around, but can’t lock the drivetrain together in the same way.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
Nice didn’t know this
flatmotion1@reddit
Man I'm glad I have my 18'.
Except the seats, everything on that vehicle looks hideous in my eyes. Too many sharp corners, no proper flow in design. The rear looks even worse than before.
I'm happy for everybody who likes it but this is cybertruck levels of ugly to me
Successful_Ad_9707@reddit
Glad Subaru hasn't forgotten STI, hopefully this makes it to production and isn't $60k plus. The GRC needs better competition in this segment.
snail_forest1@reddit
looks like a lowered CUV, best way to explain it, like the car is too tall? not the height, the body.
JustaLux@reddit
Only thing bugging me is the numbers of we'll get those numbers any time soon for price, ho, torque and more
willpc14@reddit
I don't love the styling, but I hope it makes it into production. The hot hatch/economy car segment feels empty without an STi and more competition is always better for the consumer.
Astramael@reddit
Sure is.
Hopefully it ships without the text on the hood. Just incredibly cringe.
Dazzling-Rooster2103@reddit (OP)
It could be worse.
Atleast it doesnt say "Alcohol Injected" like on the Demon 170, or doesnt have Hashtags all over like the Prius.
Astramael@reddit
I think “Proud of Boxer” is worse than both of those. Fortunately it’s just a concept so it is unlikely to enter production looking anything like this.
Sixgunslime@reddit
If this goes to production me and my wife are gonna have to have some hard conversations
orhantemerrut@reddit
Looks fantastic. This being a hatch makes it even more appealing. The wing is crazy, but somehow they made it work as well. Love this.
ThisSideUpIThink@reddit
Front bumper is the only thing that i really dislike. Aftermarket fix.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
I think if they mixed those fender flares onto the current Impreza front end it would look significantly better.
ianfgraphics@reddit
The B concept while looks great that it's "production ready" looks really rough, what happened to taking the impreza platform and just adding a wide body kit and some new internals? Enthusiasts I don't think want a brand new car they want the STI to go back to the pedigree it was founded on. The '25 impreza's already look nice, throw a body kit, a hood scoop and a back wing and call it good.
DisasterInfamous268@reddit
They need to tone down the front grill and wing a little bit but other than that it’s the same chassis.
CandidArmavillain@reddit
I'd buy it
Hurr1canE_@reddit
I actually really like this a lot. Would consider trading in my BRZ for one if it comes out to < $50,000 and really has all these perks.
imped4now@reddit
As a GRC owner, I dig it.
YouNeedStop@reddit
This goes hard. The only part that needs work is the front but I'd definitely buy. Car manufacturers don't make In Your Face cars anymore so I applaud subaru for actually making it happen and bringing this thing to the automotive world. Looking forward to seeing it on the road.
furrynoy96@reddit
So they can still make cool cars
GVIrish@reddit
I hated the VB WRX but this is great and I'd be happy to buy one. Yeah there's some goofy aspects in there but it looks like a proper hatchback STI. If the drivetrain is upgraded it'll be a good Christmas.
psimwork@reddit
I would buy the shit out of this if they release it in the US. It's literally everything I want.
KanterBama@reddit
God damn it, I was fully ready to trade in my GRC until I saw that doo-doo slab of infotainment.
I fucking hate the minimalist look, give me switches and buttons so I can secretly turn on friend’s seat heaters in the summer. The screen is too obvious.
seeyousoongetit@reddit
There is nothing uglier than a giant screen oriented in portrait on a dashboard
goaelephant@reddit
Stop talking about it, just make it!
42ATK@reddit
I’m really excited at the idea of the car, but I feel like Subaru is going to neuter the power and make it un appealing due to that. Then they’re going to kill it saying that there was a lack of interest.
madevilfish@reddit
The bones are there. Just needs a little refinement in the looks department. This makes me very excited to see if they really big it to market.
borkoman@reddit
I'll take one in white, please.
count_nuggula@reddit
That spoiler is not flattering
Rivers33@reddit
They will not build this. If they do... and that's a HUGE if... it'll have 300 hp max and be $50k.
vo244@reddit
Wow that's ugly!
V4_Sleeper@reddit
wow i like the fenders. looks hot
Location_Born@reddit
It will never get built because it’s Subaru and a concept car, but my god that is one ugly PoS
peaked-at-7@reddit
And it's a definitely not production-ready concept, just as I said it would be, lol.
The fact that anyone thought the shadowy teaser image with clearly showed box flares was of a production model was hilarious.
yetiflask@reddit
FUCK, I think I know what I am buying! That's perfect.
C_isfor_Cookies@reddit
A Subaru STi hatchback?! Take my money.
clownpirate@reddit
Looks like an awesome car to buy used in five years!
Smart-As-Duck@reddit
Would.
Next question?
shwroomex@reddit
Finally, a proper STI with a manual, Subaru fans are eating well today.
Short4u@reddit
Very WRC....but its got a tinge of Dodge Caliber.....which is concerning.
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Nashcarr2798@reddit
It looks great, with the exception of that dash. Geez, that's an easy fix. Hopefully they do something about that. Outside looks great and pretty close to production ready I bet.
garbagesp00ns@reddit
I like it! I hope it's a beefy 6-spd like the last gen STI had.
DOCTOR--O@reddit
Puke, recent Subaru redesigns have been so ass
OFFICIALOTTO@reddit
Too much going on
Zekes8pack@reddit
I love this! It even looks production ready, which is rare to see in a concept car. My only gripe is that infotainment system catching the glare of the sun, which I would look into replacing into a traditional 2din with more storage compartments or something. So glad they have the STI trans in there
legato2@reddit
Finally a hatch back.
KeeperOfEurobeat@reddit
Close enough. Welcome back Stinkeye hatch
8N-QTTRO@reddit
Huh, neat. Looks a bit bulbous up front, but what doesn't these days? I can only imagine it's because of the same crash regulations that made the new CTR look a bit funny in the nose. If nothing else, the fender flares are quite impressive.
Icy-Roll-8253@reddit
That flat bottom steering wheel and SI-Drive setup looks sick.
AHumbleGod@reddit
Um 100% yes. front is a bid eh but those fender flares are excellent
AyoyoWololo@reddit
Yuk. Though I'm be waiting for the real world model and then decide if I move on from my VA STI
msison1229@reddit
Yup, looks like 💩
KaleidoscopeLeft3503@reddit
looks like a previous gen CTR, in all the wrong ways, with cheap plasticy parts as well
Astramael@reddit
I dunno, I liked the FK8, and I kinda like this too. Not big on the two-tone hood thing, but everything else is kinda sweet.
jawwway@reddit
Clean it up a little bit and then take my money!!!! MKV Supra will rest in the garage while I daily this 🥹
no_flair@reddit
I'm immature, I would add an extra "S" to the text close to the hood scoop to say "Proud of BOXERS" if they do keep the text if it goes to production.
Grill might take some time getting used to but otherwise looks good.
jasonmoyer@reddit
The only thing I'd consider trading my '22 in for. That looks amazing.
Life_Menu_4094@reddit
STI-B would have been the much funnier name.
Ok-Conversation-9023@reddit
Not all hero's wear capes 🫡
maxlax02@reddit
We’ll see how much of this concept makes it to production…
I’m cautiously optimistic this means they may bring back the WRX hatch.
throw_me_away3478@reddit
Welp, it's ugly