The Subaru WRX STI has a deep legacy rooted in rally car racing and sport-tuned engineering. Few performance vehicles have developed such a strong reputation as the iconic WRX STI, from its early days in the late 1980s to its latest edition in 2022. The WRX STI represents the strongest, most powerful Subaru capability, focused on All-Wheel Drive control, driving dynamics, and turbocharged performance. While production of the Subaru WRX STI ended in 2022, the STI program is still in operation, continually evolving as our brand shifts focus to an electrified future.
Rally-Inspired Performance
Subaru founded the STI (Subaru Tecnica International) division for motorsports and performance in 1988. Focused on developing Subaru competition vehicles and high-performance road cars, STI became well-known for a series of highly popular Subaru WRX STI models in the 1990s and 2000s. Each version of the WRX STI came with unique turbocharged Boxer engines, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, and track-ready suspension tuning for rally-inspired capability. Balancing quick performance and real-world durability, the Subaru WRX STI developed a reputation as a true performance icon in its class over the years.
Present-Day Operations
Subaru announced a pause in production of the Subaru WRX STI in March 2022. This decision was based in emissions regulations and the brand's focus on electrification moving forward. The WRX is still available as a standalone model, but the STI badge has moved away from gas-powered performance vehicles at the present time.
The STI program is still in operation, developing STI-branded performance auto parts, motorsports vehicles, and concepts for future engineering. STI is still a key part of Subaru performance as focus shifts to electrification.
The Future of STI Performance
Subaru has recently announced Japanese concept vehicles involving STI-enhanced electrified performance vehicles, hinting at an electric future for the STI program. A new Subaru WRX STI has not been confirmed for global markets, and Subaru has emphasized a primary focus on electrification and advanced performance engineering for future STI projects.
As Subaru increasingly focuses on electrified vehicles, the STI performance division continues operating and developing future plans to balance high-output capability and emission-free driving. Based on announcements in global markets, we are looking to a future of STI-enhanced electrification, and we are excited to share updates when we can at Grand Junction Subaru. Visit us in the Western Slope today for a closer look at the latest Subaru WRX and our performance options.
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