Subaru Produced Two STIs And Now It’s Asking You To Decide | Carscoops

      Two high-performance vehicles were unveiled, but production of only one may occur based on customer feedback.

      15 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      Subaru has introduced two STI concepts: one powered by gasoline and the other by electricity.

      The company is looking for feedback to determine which STI to move forward with.

      The final decision will depend on factors such as cost, demand, and carbon objectives.

      Subaru is not yet prepared to choose between a gasoline or electric model for its performance lineup and is currently exploring both options. In late October, they presented two striking STI design prototypes—one electric and the other with a combustion engine—each representing different directions for their performance division.

      Despite the significant investment in these two concepts, Subaru has not yet made a decision on which to manufacture. Instead, they are encouraging customer input before making the final choice.

      The two prototypes, dubbed the Subaru Performance-E STI and Subaru Performance-B STI, envision what a future STI could look like based on the drivetrain Subaru decides to support.

      Of the two, the electric Performance-E STI Concept left a more striking visual impact, built on a unique platform not shared with any current Subaru models. However, it is the combustion engine-powered Performance-B hatch that has generated more excitement in forums and among fans, despite its basis on an existing model.

      In a recent discussion with Australia's Drive, Subaru Corporation’s Product General Manager, Masaaki Kobayashi, highlighted the aim to provide “choice.”

      “This is why we presented two concepts, one as an ICE [internal combustion engine] and the other as a BEV [battery electric vehicle],” Kobayashi stated.

      “While we are developing BEVs to reach carbon neutrality, we also consider the customer who prefers this model [Performance-B], so we aim to offer options, which is why we created an ICE vehicle as well,” he explained.

      Kobayashi made it clear that public feedback will influence what happens next.

      “This is our first opportunity to show it to the public, so we want to gauge customer opinions. Based on the feedback, we’ll consider [production versions],” he added.

      Kobayashi noted that Subaru is still evaluating the business case for one of the two models. Developing and producing the Performance-B is likely to be more cost-effective since it is based on an existing model, unlike the Performance-E.

      Subaru can also readily modify one of its current Boxer engines for the Performance-B with relative ease for a new WRX STI. On the other hand, launching a fully electric STI would necessitate acquiring a custom high-output battery and motor system, potentially from an external supplier.

      Both options have their advantages, and Subaru appears genuinely receptive to where the customer interest lies. So, if it were your decision, which STI (gas or EV) would you prefer to see on the road? Vote in the poll below and share your thoughts.