Get ready Subaru family, because your wish list might soon become a reality. The STI badge is making a comeback.
That’s a bold assertion and as you might expect, it comes with a few contingencies. However, the fact is undeniable and it’s no mere speculation. On Christmas Day, Subaru shared a teaser video on Instagram featuring a blue WRX showcasing an STI badge on its grille. The video concludes with a reveal date of January 9, 2025. That date coincides with the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon.
Subaru issued a press statement accompanied by a computer-generated image highlighting its 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon exhibit, which is displayed above. That image features all the vehicles Subaru listed as debuting at the event, except for one. Notably, Subaru does not reference a vehicle that is prominently displayed and obscured in the image. It appears to be a WRX STI sedan, which may also be shown digitally above the veiled vehicle itself.
The teaser video above reveals an STI badge on the grille of a current-generation WRX sedan. The wheels on the car in the teaser appear similar to those of the existing WRX tS available in America. A quick shot of the car suggests it is powered by a boxer engine, with sounds recognizable as it accelerates through the power band, confirming its sedan form.
While this may dampen expectations for a new WRX STI hatchback, which had garnered excitement after a concept unveiled in November at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, it could be just the beginning. The gasoline-powered hot-hatch concept was displayed near an STI-badged EV concept, which Subaru’s design head indicated is “under consideration.” The Japanese manufacturer is actively exploring future performance models and is still evaluating potential directions for powertrains.
The major uncertainty remains whether this STI-badged WRX will be available in the U.S. market. The Drive contacted Subaru of America representatives, but the automaker (like much of the world) is currently on holiday hiatus. We will update this story when we receive a response.
Regardless of the circumstances, a new WRX STI is set to debut shortly after the new year, which is sure to excite enthusiasts worldwide. It seems that 2026 is poised to kick off with a boxer-powered thrill.
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