Subaru will release a next-gen version of the WRX STI. Too bad the car's specs will leave enthusiasts underwhelmed.

The prospect of a new Subaru WRX STI, based on the current-generation VB WRX Sedan, seems like a pipe dream, to the point that some countries have devised ways to keep the sacred rally-born nameplate alive.

Subaru has revealed an STI variant of the current WRX, called the S210 Prototype. It will only be sold in Japan, uses an automatic transmission, and makes less power than the last WRX STI.

The WRX STI S210 is the most powerful version of the current-generation model with 296 hp from the upgraded 2.4-liter boxer engine

Subaru is previewing the next iteration of its popular S version of the even more popular WRX STI. The aptly named Subaru WRX STI S210 Prototype is a preview of what’s to come from Subaru’s performance arm later this year. This special edition is making its debut at the 2025 Tokyo Auto Salon.

Subaru ’s not bringing back the WRX STI, but it’s definitely having fun with the regular WRX . We’ve shown you the 670-horsepower race car conversion a.k.a. Project Midnight , as well as the highly futuristic Sport Mobility design study that hinted at Subaru sports cars in the next decade.

Limited to just 500 units, the Subaru WRX S210 STI gets so close to being the performance sedan we've been waiting for, but it doesn't quite get there.

The latest Subaru WRX doesn’t live up to the lofty standards set by its Impreza WRX forebears, not least because it’s been missing a truly driver-focused version in the mould of the old 22B or RB5. But with the new WRX S210 STI,

Only 500 copies of the 296-hp WRX STI will make it to production, and it's unclear if any are destined for America.