Subaru Finally Introduces A Proper WRX STI, But One Thing’s Sorely Missing – CarBuzz

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: a limited slip differential.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.Subaru WRX STI S210 Prototype Quick SpecsEngineTurbocharged 2.4-Liter Four CylinderTransmissionSubaru Performance Transmission (CVT)Power296 hp (development target)Torque277 lb-ftTo 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.”Your changes have been savedEmail is sentEmail has already been sentAdd CarBuzz to your Google News feed.Google NewsAs mentioned, the S210 prototype doesn’t come with a limited slip differential, 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.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).Subaru confirmed it wouldn’t be making an STI version of its latest WRX model when it was released, and this is the real reason why. 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.The WRX badge has spanned across five generations and has become one of the most iconic nameplates from the 90s. We want to hear from you! Share your opinions in the thread below and remember to keep it respectful.Your comment has not been savedNo standard transmission, no DCCD, no US version. Why are you wasting my time telling about this? I care not.I was onboard until the CVT.What do you mean one thing missing? You meant two things. No six speed? I just recently sold my 2008 hatchback STI and would like to replace it but no thanks.Hmmm three things, it’s a newer engine but all you’re giving us 296hp….. I’m can’t even hang with a dang kia stinger Get a GR Corolla Circuit Edition. It’s fantastic. I hope this is a mistake. Who would ever buy a sports car with CVT? DCCD is nice for snow/gravel, but it is not the reason we buy and keep the STIs. 6MT and the redline above 7500 RPM areHKS will sell you a 900-HP R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R for $600,000… Or more – depending on options.Toyota Gazoo Racing and Subaru released a software tune for the BRZ and GR86 twins that’ll sharpen up the throttle – but only if you live in Japan.It’s heading to production, but this hot Subie is missing a key ingredient.Four-Cylinder Ultra-Yaris concept looks ready to rock.The Ioniq 5 N goes even harder with the Drift King’s touches, and we hope to see more projects as cool as this.It’a about time, but there’s a catch – you have to buy it in another country.

Source: https://carbuzz.com/reveal-subaru-wrx-sti-s210-prototype-details-japan/