2023 Subaru WRX STI to be powered by turbo BRZ engine – report
Subaru's high-performance WRX STI could be unveiled in 2022 with 260kW, according to a new rumours out of Japan.
The 2023 Subaru WRX STI will debut with a turbocharged version of the engine used in the Subaru BRZ, and it could be the last model to come from the brand without electrification when it debuts next year.
Subaru will unveil the high-performance WRX STI in mid-2022, according to Japanese website Goo-net, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre 'FA24' four-cylinder engine producing around 260kW.
The FA24 is the same engine found in the upcoming Subaru BRZ coupe – and its twin, the Toyota GR 86 – albeit in non-turbo form. Despite this, Subaru has been adamant the new BRZ will not be offered with a turbo since the model was shown in late 2020.
Subaru does fit a 'low output' turbocharged version of the FA24 engine in the Outback sold in overseas markets, as well as some other models not offered in Australia.
While the company has been slow to introduce electrification across its range, the report indicates the WRX STI will be the final vehicle to come from the car maker without hybrid technology – though an STI with some kind of hybrid assist is expected at a later date.
Rumours out of the US suggest Subaru will unveil the new-generation WRX at the Los Angeles motor show in November 2021. The current, outgoing WRX was first shown at the LA show in 2015.
Information from Japan points to the WRX STI making its debut in mid-2022, with deliveries to begin in 2023. It's unclear whether this timeline was planned by Subaru, or if the decision was made to delay the model due to the global computer chip shortage affecting car makers.