Subaru WRX STI Hybrid
A particularly vocal segment of Subaru enthusiasts is convinced that the WRX must absolutely be a compact sedan. Apparently to meet these expectations, Subaru presented no less than two concepts sporting the famous World Rally Blue color with a hatchback body at this year’s Japan Mobility Show. One is designed to be fully electric and looks unlike any WRX we’ve ever seen. The other, however, is striking because it actually resembles several models we already know, but never assembled in this way.
The Fusion of Three Distinct Subarus
What Subaru seems to have achieved with the Performance-B STI Concept is grafting the headlights and front fascia of a modern WRX onto what otherwise resembles an Impreza hatchback, but with widened wheel arches and a giant spoiler. Technically speaking, this operation wouldn’t seem too complex since the models share the same platform. However, the result remains strange in practice, as many of us are probably more accustomed to seeing the rear of a current Impreza in its more robust and adventurous Crosstrek-style version.
A Bold Yet Coherent Blend
The final result is a hybrid mix of three small Subarus that looks like something you’d swear exists, but doesn’t – officially. At least, not until now. The other particularity lies in the fact that after spending a good part of the week in Tokyo for this major event, I spotted a few Levorgs, which are essentially WRX wagons, driving on the streets. In other words, this Performance-B vehicle resembles one of these, but with a radically different visual identity and styling elements borrowed from several generations of the brand’s sporty models.
The Technical Legacy of the Common Platform
The platform sharing between these different models explains the relative ease with which Subaru was able to achieve this stylistic fusion. This modular approach saves considerably on development costs while offering great flexibility in the design of different models. The WRX, Impreza, and Crosstrek thus benefit from a technical kinship that translates into similar driving characteristics, but adapted to their respective market positions.
The Response to Purist Expectations
This Performance-B STI concept appears to be Subaru’s direct response to repeated requests from enthusiasts calling for the return of the WRX in hatchback form. The previous generation of the WRX STI hatchback had developed a particularly dedicated fan base, disappointed by the exclusive switch to a three-box sedan in subsequent generations. With this concept, Subaru demonstrates not only its attentiveness to its community but also its ability to innovate by rethinking the DNA of its iconic models.
The Balance Between Tradition and Innovation
What makes this concept particularly interesting is its balanced approach between the brand’s traditional aesthetic codes and necessary modernization. Iconic elements like the World Rally Blue color, specific wheels, and STI badging are preserved, while the assembly of different body styles represents an innovative approach. This strategy could well define the future direction of Subaru’s sporty models as the automotive industry goes through a period of transition toward electrification.
Implications for Future Production
Although presented as a concept, the Performance-B STI hints at concrete possibilities for Subaru’s future production. The use of elements from currently produced models suggests that this approach could be industrialized relatively easily. The reactions from Japan Mobility Show visitors and online enthusiasts will likely serve as a barometer to decide whether this concept will evolve into a production model or remain a bold styling study.