The New 2026 Subaru WRX STI Changes, Price, and Specs. The newest 2026 Subaru WRX STI is not like any other car; it is a sporty sedan that is unique in its kind and is aimed at target customers in a specific market segment. In the year 2026, the sports sedan that has a history of rallying and exceptional all-wheel drive performance will undergo a significant redesign.
The 2025 model has been released with some modest improvements, but the future model will feature more significant alterations, particularly concerning the engine. There is a high probability that it will be driven by an entirely new hybrid powertrain.
Table of Contents
Both 2026 Subaru WRX STI Engine Performance and the Transmission
A 2.5-liter engine is housed into the 2025 Subaru WRX STi’s engine compartment. At 6000 revolutions per minute, it will produce 305 horsepower, and at 4000 revolutions per minute, it will produce 290 pound-feet of torque. The base model of the WRX is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter flat-four engine that generates 268 horsepower. When equipped with a manual transmission, the 2025 WRX model can reach 60 miles per hour in 5.5 seconds. It takes the more powerful STI 4.8 seconds to reach 60 miles per hour. That is not going to be the case with the successful replacement. Even though the specifics are not yet known, it will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain when it is first released.
It is possible that the new engine will benefit from the addition of a hood scoop as well as a cold-air intake tube. Within the confines of urban roads, the current model does not exactly provide an exceptional riding experience. It is an entirely other thing when you are driving on the highway. An innovative continuously variable transmission (CVT) gearbox unit is anticipated to be paired with the hybrid powerplant.
The 2026 Subaru WRX STI design, appearance, and safety features
Subaru has shifted all of its base Impreza models to the company’s Global Platform for the 2024 model year; however, the current WRX STI is still constructed on a platform that dates back to 2025. All of this is about to change with the successor, according to the latest information from the industry. A more advanced version of the Subaru Global Platform architecture will serve as the foundation for this. This is a platform that was built with the creation of hybrid vehicles as its primary goal. The front bumper of the 2025 model has been redesigned, and it will also include adaptive LED headlights. Additionally, it has wheels with a black finish. These exterior styling cues might be kept for the successor that will be released in 2026, and it might also get a new front grille and a rear spoiler that has been reworked. Components of the design that were included in the most recent Viziv Performance Concept.
In addition, there is little doubt that the interior of the 2026 Subaru WRX STI will get some updates and improvements. It’s possible that it won’t have luxurious materials, but the emphasis will be on functionality. There is a possibility that advanced noise insulation technology will be implemented, in addition to the customisation options for upholstery. In addition to having adequate space for cargo, the current model is able to accommodate five adults. It is possible that the next model will have an interior that is more ergonomically designed and will have additional storage possibilities for little goods.
Options for Safety and Technology in the 2026 Subaru WRX STI
The characteristics that were utilized in the year 2025 There is a possibility that the Subaru WRX STi will also be included in the forthcoming model of the 2026 Subaru WRX STI, and expect even more. In the same vein, the safety features are also worthy of mention.
The Starlink infotainment system and a touch display that is at least seven inches in size will be features that are included on the standard feature list. Wireless Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels measuring 17 inches, a rearview camera, and front sports seats are all included. Some of the amenities that can be upgraded to include navigation, adaptive LED headlights, a Harman Kardon audio system, dual-zone climate control, a sunroof, fog lights, larger alloy wheels, and leather upholstery are all available as options. Moreover, a Performance package might be included with the new model.
Read: The New 2026 GMC Yukon Price and Interior
There have been some modifications made to the infotainment system since the year 2025. It should come as no surprise that the 2026 Subaru WRX STI will be even more refined than its predecessor. Support for the integration of smartphones as well as support for all wireless communication protocols will be included. It is recommended that the reaction time be sped up, and the user-friendliness may also require some improvement.
EyeSight, Subaru’s comprehensive safety package, is standard equipment on the 2026 Subaru WRX STI STI. The forwarding collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and lane keeping assist are some of the functions that are included in this safety feature. Naturally, the automobile is equipped with an adequate number of airbags and anti-lock braking systems. It’s possible that the future model will also come equipped with built-in assistance for emergency braking at low speeds and blind spot monitoring. The EyeSight safety suite has received positive feedback and has performed well in crash tests.
2025 Subaru WRX STI price and Release date
The 2026 Subaru WRX STI is scheduled to be introduced at some point in the year 2025. The precise moment is not quite known. The revisions indicate that the price tag ought to be at around $38.000.
Concluding remarks
The Subaru WRX STI has a long and illustrious history, and it competes with a very small number of other vehicles in its market class at the present time. By incorporating a hybrid powertrain into the vehicle, Subaru will unquestionably gain a competitive advantage. In addition, the exterior design of the new 2026 Subaru WRX STI will be updated, and the interior will also undergo some changes.
On the other hand, the corporation has not disclosed all of the information. It is recommended that a few safety elements be incorporated out of the box. The purchasers who are the focus of the offer will find this to be more appealing. When it is finally released, the 2026 Subaru WRX STI will compete with other vehicles in its class, like the Golf GTI and the Honda Civic Si.