Subaru's Performance-B STI Concept

Today, Subaru revealed two STI concepts at the Tokyo Mobility Show, one of which was the Performance-B STI Concept. This one below is the internal combustion engine concept, whereas the other is an EV concept. After a long hiatus, introducing an STI that Subaru fans wanted was a no-brainer and we imagine this could help give Subaru the confidence to re-launch the STI. We wanted to highlight some thoughts on the vehicle.

Firstly, the important specs for any fan are as follows: manual transmission (yay), boxer engine (whew), and AWD. A nice touch was the “Proud of Boxer” identification right below the hood scoop.

Where the VB WRX model aims for daily usability with sporty flavor, the Performance-B Concept exaggerates that DNA into a track-focused, aero-driven, hot hatch aesthetic. Versus normal WRXs, this has sharper edges, sports deep and notable aero channels, and a rally-meets-GT3 kind of vibe.

In particular, the deep vented channels front and rear are a bold statement. Vertical extraction vents behind each wheel arch are sculpted aggressively for brake cooling and drag management. The rear bumper integrates pronounced fins and diffusers, contrasting sharply with the smoother WRX fascia.

Some of the other surfaces hint at its potential for street builds. Its black-finished carbon-fiber hood, roof, and rear wing deck create a strong contrast from the WR Blue (of course). Weight-saving, yes, but also a nice tip of the hat to mod culture.

Moving to the rear of the car, what impressed us the most about Subaru’s concept car designers was the rear wing, an enormous step-up from a stock WRX spoiler. If it was painted any other color than black, its prominence would be even wilder. The red highlight on the wing is a nice touch, and is matched by the highlights on the front grille, a classic WRX design choice.

Moving to the front fascia, this retains many elements of the current WRX. The concept sports a sharp lip splitter, and the visual continuity between red grille perimeter and red wing accent recalls previous STI prototypes.

We applaud Subaru’s move to make a concept vehicle with so many cues taken from motorsport, WRC competition, and heritage STI. Let’s hope that public feedback is strong enough (so please write your local representative at your earliest convenience) to convince Subaru that the STI should indeed be brought back!