It’s another blow for fans of Japanese rally legends as Subaru confirms it isn’t making a new Subaru WRX STI. According to the Japanese carmaker, it is redirecting its attention to “fast track its investment in future performance technologies” instead.
Just what are those “future performance technologies”, you ask? Well, Subaru suggests fans look to its 800kW quad-motor STI E-RA Challenge Project all-electric concept car as a teaser. Subaru hopes the STI E-RA can lap the Nürburgring in 6min 40sec and provide insight into electric drivetrain technologies.
Though the Subaru WRX STI is off the table for the second-generation WRX, Subaru maintains a “never say never” stance. Subaru of America assures fans that the company is “exploring opportunities for the next-generation Subaru WRX STI”. Thus, leaving the door open to possibilities for it to return, probably with an electrified platform.
Why is the Subaru WRX STI discontinued?
Love it or hate it, electrified performance is becoming essential in today’s era of fuel efficiency and carbon emissions. And when it comes to the Subaru WRX STI, it might be more of a necessity. After all, which STI-tuned product doesn’t burn and emit like a flaming oil rig.
Though moving away from its fire-breathing past is no bad thing nowadays. The STI name bears little relation to its gravel-flinging roots with no more factory-backed rallying endeavour. Furthermore, the last WRX STI – with its archaic flat-four – struggled to stay relevant and keep up with Europe’s hyper hatches. Might as well take a break and start afresh when they are ready.
With the automotive world running helter-skelter to redefine itself, what better time is there to sever ties with the past? Who knows, the STI E-RA might help Subaru Tecnica International learn a thing or two and leapfrog the competition. As the automotive industry is wont to say, “never say never” and always watch this space.