CLASSIC NEVER DIES

Subaru WRX: Say Hello to Project Midnight

Black Subaru WRX Project Midnight pictured in a dark room with a painting in background — Project Midnight WRX
Source: Subaru

Subaru Motorsports USA has officially introduced “Project Midnight,” the fastest and most advanced WRX to date. Making its debut from July 11-14 at the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed, this tarmac-special race car is designed with a singular focus on speed. Building on the legacy of the record-breaking “Airslayer” Gymkhana car, Project Midnight elevates performance with an emphasis on outright speed and advanced engineering.

Black WRX with large rear spoiler in a white room

blue, white and red Subaru WRX drifting through a turn on dirt into asphalt

Inspired by the “Airslayer” WRX (Above Right) driven by Travis Pastrana, Project Midnight will be driven by Scott Speed, a fitting driver for a high performance platform.
Source: Subaru

The name “Project Midnight” symbolizes the car’s evolution from its predecessor, Airslayer, which was based on the 2020 Subaru WRX STI and known for its versatility and stunt performances, including a notable 230-foot jump. Project Midnight reimagines this concept with a focus on pure tarmac speed, piloted by the accomplished ex-F1 driver and rallycross champion Scott Speed. This lightweight, widebody machine is designed to dominate tarmac tracks and break new records in performance.

Black Subaru WRX Project Midnight closeup of rear quarter panel — *Source: Subaru*

Key features of Project Midnight include its ultra-wide aerodynamic bodywork and an enlarged wing similar to the one found on the team’s WRX ARA24 gravel rally car. The vehicle’s carbon fiber body and significantly lightened chassis contribute to its impressive curb weight of just 2,469 pounds. The car’s specially derived tarmac suspension geometry and 18×11-inch OZ Racing Superturismo LMP magnesium wheels, paired with 280/650R18 Yokohama ADVAN slicks, further enhance its performance capabilities.

two subaru race cars pictured next to one another one black and the other blue in a dark room — Past inspires present, Subaru Motorsports icons.
Source: Subaru

Under the hood, Project Midnight boasts a turbocharged and intercooled 2.0-liter flat-four engine producing 670 horsepower and 680 lb-ft of torque. This engine, the latest and most powerful evolution of Subaru Motorsports USA’s rallycross powerplant, revs up to 9,500 rpm and features a hood-exit exhaust. This cutting-edge powertrain was instrumental in Scott Speed’s success in the 2021 Nitro Rallycross Teams Championship, further highlighting the car’s top-tier performance credentials.

Black WRX race car pictured next to other Subaru cars — A history of racing pedigree, S.Speed is next in line piloting Project Midnight.
Source: Subaru

What a moment for Subaru Motorsports. A distinct and alluring version of their WRX. The large rear spoiler, the full carbon fiber body, and the powerful 2.0-liter boxer engine combine to create an exhilarating spectacle as Project Midnight flies down the raceway. “Project Midnight,” perfectly captures the car’s sleek and powerful essence and Subaru definitely hit the nail on the head, showcasing both taste and power in one of their flagship platforms, further cementing their legacy in motorsports history.