Subaru unveiled teasers of gasoline and electric STI concepts

The Japanese automaker is preparing to premiere two sports concepts. The electric Performance-E STI with a fastback silhouette and the gasoline Performance-B STI—a hot hatchback competitor to the GR Corolla.

What is known

Before the start of the Japan Mobility Show 2025, it seems Japanese automakers agreed not to steal each other's attention during teaser campaigns. On Monday, Toyota showcased the electric Corolla and Coupe Century. Yesterday, Mazda announced a sleek four-door concept. Today it's Subaru's turn to share shadowed images of a pair of STI lineup show cars.

The fully electric Performance-E STI concept leans toward a fastback silhouette with slimmer headlights on either side of a narrow hood. The front bumper features an angular design, and the wheels appear to have gold aerodynamic covers.

Meanwhile, the internal combustion engine Performance-B STI concept looks like a genuine hot hatchback with a noticeably larger roof spoiler. This is not the first teaser of the model. Subaru initially showcased it back in early June. The bulging fenders and overall front-end design suggest a WRX-based hatchback. Ventilation holes are also visible on both sides of the hood's air intake.

Subaru states that the mysterious ICE is paired with the proprietary Symmetrical AWD all-wheel-drive system, but other details remain unknown.

It's surprising to see a gasoline STI, considering that just a few months ago the company promised to reserve this designation for electric vehicles.

A 2022 report claimed that the WRX STI was discontinued due to more stringent emissions standards. However, Subaru launched the special edition S210 earlier this year at the Tokyo Auto Salon as a full-fledged STI model with an upgraded 2.4-liter turbocharged gasoline engine producing 296 hp. However, this sports sedan was sold exclusively in Japan and only with a CVT.

Whether any of the concept models will reach production remains unclear. The STI duo will share the stage at the Japan Mobility Show 2025 at the end of October with the Trailseeker, Forester Wilderness, Outback Wilderness, and GL ‘Family Huckster’.

Source: Motor1