Will The Next STI Be A Hybrid?

We don’t think anyone would argue against the fact that more and more cars will become Hybrids over time. Hybrid powertrains can act as a type of supercharger or turbocharger that assists in adding extra horsepower to a car without the expressed purpose of being for fuel mileage gains. Although that is a positive byproduct of a Hybrid system. 

Subaru Is STI

Some of the first thoughts that come to mind when someone asks about Subaru are All-wheel drive, Boxer engines, STI wagons and sedans, and rally driving. These are all what makes a Subaru a Subaru in many ways. 

Subaru Tecnica International, or STI for short, is the high-performance department of Subaru cars. They take regular road cars and push them past the normal threshold to 11. Any car tuned by STI receives specialized suspension, larger brakes, more power, upgraded seats, and usually a larger wing on the back to let everyone know this car means business. Or to give the police somewhere to point their lasers at to know how fast you’re traveling. 

STe?

There is a whole new lineup of electric Subarus debuting within the next few years, so it seems only necessary to have high-performance EVs tuned by STI. Now, though, we have a better idea of what that could mean. According to sources, Subaru has taken the step of trademarking the name “STe” with the German Patent and Trademark Office (DPMA). It appears STI will operate under a new name specific to electric vehicles, Subaru Tecnica electrified. 

This all goes with a press release Subaru sent out in March of 2022 that said in part, “As part of that effort, Subaru Corporation is exploring opportunities for the next generation Subaru WRX STI, including electrification.  In the meantime, a next generation internal combustion engine WRX STI will not be produced based upon the new WRX platform.”

It is possible that this means that the next Subaru WRX would become a Hybrid sport sedan with a Hybrid STI. Or, is it also possible that Subaru could just prioritize the WRX becoming a full-on electric car and making an STe version of that? Subaru WRX STe has a nice ring to it. Only time will tell for now, as the only current Subaru EV is the Solterra. However, do keep in mind that a Solterra STI was teased at last year’s Tokyo Auto Salon. Also, at that same show, Subaru showed off an electric concept car called the 1,073-horsepower STI E-RA Challenge Project Concept. Only time will tell what will be, and I am positive it will be fun and fascinating. 

At Twin Falls Subaru, we are happy to offer hundreds of new and pre-owned vehicles to our customers. Our fantastic sales team will work hard to find the best car that fits your needs, and our dedicated service department will always ensure that your vehicle is taken care of in the best way possible. We look forward to serving you soon.