Subaru unveils 'WRX STI' prototype at ongoing Tokyo Auto Salon 2026

MANILA: Subaru has unveiled the WRX STI Sport prototype at the ongoing Tokyo Auto Salon (TAS) 2026. 

The said car is based on the second-generation (VB) WRX model that was launched globally in 2021 and was introduced to the Philippine market in June 2022. 

Notably, it could herald the return of a proper Subaru Tecnica International (STI)-badged  WRX nameplate after the former was scrubbed from the Japanese marque’s lineup around five years ago. The prototype even boasts several signature STI accoutrements, namely cherry-red exterior trims, a set of gold-colored 19-inch wheels, and a six-speed manual transmission. 

Other performance bits present on the prototype include Brembo brakes, electronically controlled dampers, high-performance tires, and many other “exclusive STI” parts. 

The aforementioned transmission is interesting since it is currently unavailable in its home country and many other markets where it is sold. In Japan, the sedan is exclusively available with the “Subaru Performance” continuously variable transmission (CVT). 

Although a six-speed manual transmission is present in the Philippine market, Subaru didn’t say if this was the same gearbox as the one on the WRX STI prototype displayed on TAS 2026. 

Furthermore, Subaru has not revealed a full specs list for the WRX STI prototype, nor has it indicated whether this is a “true blue STI nameplate”, as enthusiasts know it. For reference, the STI nameplates of old came with a beefed-up engine tune and the brand’s driver-controlled central differential (DCCD) - elements that were not confirmed to be present on the newly unveiled prototype.

On that note, we can likewise assume that this “new STI” nameplate will carry over the same turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer mill that the standard WRX uses. In the Philippine-spec version, the said engine can generate up to 271 horsepower and 350 Newton-meters of torque. All of its trims, the 6MT,  the CVT Eyesight, and the tS Eyesight, also get the Japanese carmaker’s symmetrical all-wheel drive (AWD). 

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Other Subaru vehicles at TAS 2026

Apart from the Subaru WRX STI prototype, the Japanese carmaker also showcased the Levorg STI Sport R-Black II STI Performance and the WRX ST Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance models. 

The two were recently launched for the Japanese market and are factory-fitted with genuine accessories and STI-branded parts. And no, these aren’t full-blown STI cars, but are merely accessorized models.

Likewise highlighted are the Subaru Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition, as well as the Subaru BRZ GT300 2026 Super GT race car, the WRX VBH Japan Rally Championship race car, and the new 2026 Subaru Super Taikyu Series contender. 

To note, the new Super Taikyu Series car that’s set to race under the Subaru flag will use carbon-neutral fuel. 

Also read:

Subaru introduces all-new Uncharted EV for US market

Subaru Forester hailed as Japan Car of the Year

Subaru debuts all-new Trailseeker for US market

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