“Will they or won’t they?” seems to be the burning question surrounding a new Subaru WRX STI Hatchback and the recent sighting of a new design patent for the model has once again reignited speculation that it could make it to production. Until now, Subaru has not confirmed a next-generation of the iconic, fire-breathing model.
“Will they or won’t they?” seems to be the burning question surrounding a new Subaru WRX STI Hatchback and the recent sighting of a new design patent for the model has once again reignited speculation that it could make it to production.
Until now, Subaru has not confirmed a next-generation of the iconic, fire-breathing model. However, the carmaker has been dropping concepts hinting at it, such as the Subaru Performance-B STI Concept.
The patent filing was made in September 2025 and recently surfaced again following the issuance of a registration certificate on 10 March 2026.
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Subaru never confirmed a hatchback bodystyle of the current WRX that was launched in 2022, let alone an STI variant. A consolation comes in the form of the Levorg wagon sold in certain markets but is only available with a CVT.
Nonetheless, Subaru has cleverly kept the STI name visible. At Tokyo Auto Salon in January 2026, the brand unveiled the WRX STI Sport♯ but was only available in Japan.
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Still, dreams are free and we shall indulge. The patent appears to not just depict a hatchback but based on the widened fenders, wing, diffuser and vents, could very well be a full-fat STI variant. Of course, the iconic hood scoop is intact and the flared wheel arches look to have extractors to remove turbulent air.
One glaring omission though are exhaust pipes. There has been speculation that if Subaru were to make a new WRX STI, it would be electrified, but we do not expect this to be fully electric though.
Even with the patent being granted, it does not necessarily mean the WRX STI hatchback will be green lit for production. The timeline though is near perfect for the current VB-generation to receive a facelift or even major refresh and relaunching it with a hatchback would be the perfect ending.