Japan is currently on a roll with its auto shows. Just a few months ago, in October, the country hosted the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, where Subaru unveiled a couple of STI concepts that drew large crowds and, unsurprisingly, had enthusiasts hyped about the potential revival of the STI trim—a badge that hasn’t been seen in the U.S. since 2021. Now, in the midst of the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, Subaru has revealed the Subaru WRX STI Sport# on the heels of several teaser videos, drawing both praise and criticism depending on one’s take on this new model.
As one might guess from the lack of press releases from Subaru of America, this new model does not quite deliver on the hype many Subaru enthusiasts were hoping for. The WRX STI Sport# doesn’t offer the meaningful bump in power that everyone traditionally associates with the STI badge, but not all hope is lost just yet. What the WRX STI Sport# does give us is a manual transmission, meaning at least one key ingredient of a full-fledged STI is present. Beyond that, this model is essentially a VB-generation WRX S4 STI already sold in Japan, but offered with a manual gearbox and a selection of STI performance parts. While this may be a bit disappointing, it does seem as though Subaru is slowly heading in the right, STI-inspired direction.
Detailed information remains very limited, as the WRX STI Sport# is still a prototype. Visually, however, it features a subtle spoiler, blacked-out elements, a revised grille, dark pink accents, and STI badging throughout. There is a chance that some elements could change for the better before production, but it seems unlikely that we’ll be getting an STI that fully satisfies the most demanding enthusiasts.
There are currently no details regarding production timing, availability, or whether this model will follow the 500-unit production run of the previous version. And to add salt to the wound, it’s unlikely that it will be sold in the U.S. Still, there is a glimmer of hope. The addition of a manual transmission shows that Subaru understands the STI is a beloved trim that many want back in full force—they just haven’t fully committed yet. This new offering helps keep interest alive, which could ultimately lead to a proper return of the STI in the future.
