{"id":75641,"date":"2025-01-12T22:19:00","date_gmt":"2025-01-13T03:19:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.emanualonline.com\/blog\/?p=75641"},"modified":"2025-01-12T22:19:00","modified_gmt":"2025-01-13T03:19:00","slug":"subaru-wrx-sti-s210","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.emanualonline.com\/blog\/subaru-wrx-sti-s210","title":{"rendered":"A Proper Subaru WRX STI S210 Is in the Works, but Only with a CVT"},"content":{"rendered":"

Subaru\u2019s WRX STI is finally back, but before you get too excited, there\u2019s something missing.<\/p>\n

Subaru fans, rejoice\u2014kind of. The legendary WRX STI is making a comeback, but there\u2019s a catch. Subaru<\/a> has unveiled the new WRX STI S210 prototype at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2025, signaling that the high-performance nameplate isn\u2019t entirely dead. The S210 is a limited-edition model, with only 500 units planned for production. While that\u2019s exciting news for rally fans, there are a few things that might leave traditionalists scratching their heads.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s start with the good stuff. The S210 packs a tuned version of the 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine found in the regular WRX. Subaru has worked some magic under the hood, boosting output to 296 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque\u201425 more ponies and 21 more lb-ft than the standard model. These gains come courtesy of a retuned ECU, along with upgraded intake and exhaust systems, including a new low-pressure muffler and intake ducts. That\u2019s decent power, but it still falls short of the last-gen STI S209, which boasted a meaty 341 horsepower and came with a proper manual transmission.<\/p>\n

And here\u2019s where things get controversial\u2014there\u2019s no manual option. Instead, Subaru<\/a> has fitted the S210 with a CVT-based Subaru Performance Transmission. Sure, they\u2019ve tuned it for better responsiveness, but for die-hard enthusiasts, it\u2019s tough to swallow the idea of an STI without a stick shift. Adding to the disappointment, the S210 lacks Subaru\u2019s iconic Driver\u2019s Control Center Differential (DCCD), which allowed drivers to tweak the center differential for better handling. In its place, Subaru has included adaptive dampers, coil springs, and new rear stabilizer bushes to enhance the driving experience.<\/p>\n

\"Subaru<\/p>\n

The S210 does come with some notable mechanical upgrades. It rides on 19-inch forged BBS wheels wrapped in sticky Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, while Brembo brakes with six-piston calipers up front provide serious stopping power. There\u2019s also extra chassis bracing for better rigidity, which should help the car feel more planted on twisty roads.<\/p>\n

On the outside, the S210 sports a subtle yet aggressive look, featuring gloss black body cladding, a unique mesh grille with red trim, and a modest rear wing. There\u2019s also an array of STI aero parts, many of which were inspired by Subaru\u2019s endurance racecars. Inside, you\u2019ll find carbon-backed Recaro<\/a> seats with power adjustments, microsuede armrests, and plenty of piano black trim, giving the cabin a sporty, premium vibe.<\/p>\n

Subaru has confirmed that only 500 units of the S210 will be produced, but there\u2019s no word yet on whether any of them will be available in the U.S. Given that the previous S209 was sold stateside for a hefty $64,880, it\u2019s safe to assume the S210 will come with an even steeper price tag.<\/p>\n

While it\u2019s great to see Subaru keeping the STI spirit alive, the lack of a manual transmission and limited-slip differential might be a dealbreaker for purists. Still, with its limited production run and upgraded performance, the S210 is bound to be a hot commodity. If you\u2019re lucky enough to get your hands on one, you\u2019ll have a rare piece of Subaru history\u2014just don\u2019t expect to be rowing your own gears.<\/p>\n

\"Subaru<\/p>\n

Gallery: Subaru WRX S210 Prototype<\/h2>\n