The 2022 Subaru WRX will arrive at U.S. dealerships this spring, but it won’t be followed by a WRX STI.
In a surprise move, Subaru released a statement saying the “automotive marketplace continues to move towards electrification” and they’re “focused on how our future sports and performance cars should evolve to meet the needs of the changing marketplace, and the regulations and requirements for greenhouse gasses, zero emissions vehicles, and Corporate Average Fuel Economy.”
As part of that effort, the automaker is “exploring opportunities for the next-generation Subaru WRX STI, including electrification.” However, there’s a huge caveat as the company confirmed “a next-generation internal combustion engine WRX STI will not be produced based upon the new WRX platform.”
Also Read: 2022 Subaru WRX Starts At $29,105 And Boasts 271 HP
That’s a huge blow for fans as the WRX STI is the pinnacle of Subaru performance. It also leaves STI with an uncertain future in the meantime, but Subaru said “As we look to the future, we also look forward to incorporating the essence of STI into our next generation of vehicles.”
Judging by the company’s statement, the WRX STI is effectively dead. It might be reborn in the future with some form of electrification, but there’s no word on when.
When asked for additional details, a spokesperson confirmed “This generation of WRX will not have an STI version.” They went onto say “electrification can mean hybrid or electric,” and noted Subaru has “not announced a timeline” for when the WRX STI could return.
Regardless of what the future holds, the 2022 WRX starts at $29,105 and features a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder developing 271 hp (202 kW / 275 PS) and 258 lb-ft (349 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission as well as a symmetrical all-wheel drive system.
