Concept STI twins show the past, present and future of Subaru at Japan Mobility Show

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Subaru has unveiled two unique STI Concept cars at the Japan Mobility Show, known as the Performance E STI and Performance B STI. Both models fuse design elements from several iconic Subaru models, most notably the mid-2000s ‘GR’ ‘hawkeye’ WRX STI hatch and BRZ sportscar.

A homage to the core fundamentals of Subaru and STI, the Performance B STI concept blends together iconic mechanical elements in a familiar, refined package.

The model features a six-speed manual transmission, turbocharged ‘boxer’ four-cylinder engine, and Subaru’s staple symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Performance is furthered by claims of a ‘lightweight, compact body’ and ‘low centre of gravity.’ 

Power outputs, external dimensions, and kerb weight are yet to be confirmed for the Performance B STI, but we expect specifications not too dissimilar to the current WRX tS Spec B. That model produces 202kW and 350Nm, and has a kerb weight of 1522kg.

Visually, the front end of Subaru’s B STI concept better represents the pre-facelifted ‘VA’ WRX rather than the current ‘VB’ performance sedan. Its hatchback body, flared arches and overall silhouette are very similar to that of the ‘GR’ WRX STI hatchback, also known as the ‘hawkeye’.

At the rear, the B STI borrows more design cues, this time from the Subaru Crosstrek, while the huge rear wing takes creative liberty from the first generation ‘GC8’ WRX STI. 

Inside, the B STI’s interior sports a large portrait-oriented infotainment screen, STI sports steering wheel, stripped back door trims with carbon-fibre inserts, and a ‘no-frills’ centre console with red stitching, a pronounced manual gearstick and physical handbrake.

Where the Performance B leans heavily on Subaru’s history, the Performance E STI concept sports a less traditional, modern, angular design which Subaru claims will “spearhead Subaru’s new generation” of performance vehicles. 

Electro-mechanical specifications for the E STI concept are vague. Subaru claims the model has supreme aerodynamics, cutting-edge technology, and all-wheel drive, however battery size, number of electric motors, and performance figures are not known.

Visually, the sharp, angular front end of the E STI appears similar to the new-generation Subaru BRZ, while its slender, lowslung hatchback body is inspired by the 2016 Toyota 86 Shooting Brake Concept.

The Performance E STI concept adorns lightweight wheels, with a likely aerodynamic, sand-coloured disc attached, best described as ‘circular-saw-like’. At the rear, the E STI appears more Skoda than Subaru, with a body-length rear tail-light and large rear diffuser. 

At the time of writing, the E STI’s interior was not available for viewing. We will update this article as more details come to light.

Subaru currently offers just one electric vehicle, the Toyota BZ4x-derived Solterra, but claims to offer eight unique models by 2028. Whether a production model of the E STI concept will be one of those eight remains unconfirmed. 

Where the E STI concept has some potential for future production, it is unlikely that the combustion-powered B STI concept will ever come to fruition, as global emissions laws continue to punish manufacturers for performance vehicles with high CO2 outputs.