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. The Japanese marque rolled out several attempts at an almost-STI before, but finally, a WRX STI in almost every way has been revealed at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025. One thing’s missing, though: limited slip differentials.
2025 Subaru WRX Sedan
- Base Trim Engine
- 2.4-Liter Turbo B4 Boxer
- Base Trim Transmission
- 6-Speed Manual/CVT
- Base Trim Horsepower
- 271 HP
- Base Trim Torque
- 258 LB-FT
Officially called the STI complete car S210 Prototype, the newest member of the S-series – essentially a successor to the rare WRX STI S209 – is powered by a modified version of the WRX’s turbocharged 2.4-liter FA24 engine. Since it’s still under development, Subaru is targeting an output of 296 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque (25 hp and 19 lb-ft more than the standard WRX) through the help of a special ECU and other tuning bits.
Tuned To Perform, But Where’s The DCCD?
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Subaru WRX STI S210 Prototype Quick Specs |
|
|---|---|
|
Engine |
Turbocharged 2.4-Liter Four Cylinder |
|
Transmission |
Subaru Performance Transmission (CVT) |
|
Power |
296 hp (development target) |
|
Torque |
277 lb-ft |
To achieve that target, Subaru fitted the FA24 with a newly developed air cleaner, intake ducts, and pre-turbo ducts, while the exhaust system includes a low back pressure muffler with a large diameter tailpipe and a cannonball-shaped chamber to reduce resistance. STI also equipped the S210 with a so-called Subaru Performance Transmission – the first S-series to be equipped with a CVT – with tuned “gearshifts” to match the driver’s intentions for “an extremely heightened pleasure of driving.”
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As mentioned, the S210 prototype doesn’t come with limited slip differentials, which is a bit of a downer since the Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) is one of the essences of a true STI. For the uninitiated, the WRX STI’s DCCD allows the center differential locking to be dialed in for better handling. In lieu of that, the prototype is equipped with specially tuned electronic control dampers and coil springs, along with newly developed rear stabilizer bushes. The braking system incorporates Brembo front 6-pot calipers, specialized brake pads, and front and rear drilled rotors.
Good News: It’s Headed For Production
Beyond the STI badges and S210 branding, the prototype comes with a slew of flexible STI aero parts used in its endurance racecars, along with an STI-branded dry carbon rear spoiler. It also wears a set of 19-inch STI Flexible Performance Wheels uniquely designed for the front and rear, wrapped in Michelin rubbers. Other enhancements include new Recaro 8-way power seats with carbon backrests inside. The cabin is designed around a sleek black theme with red accents (unlike the pink ones found in Singapore).
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Subaru claims that the WRX STI S210 Prototype is a direct derivative of STI’s racecars that competed at the Nürburgring 24-hour Race. While it’s still in the development stage, the automaker has already confirmed that it’s headed for production, with further details arriving in spring. Just like the S209, the S210 will be limited in numbers; up to 500 units, though we’re unsure whether it will ever reach America like the former.
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