Subaru’s next WRX STI ‘could be a hybrid’

The Subaru WRX STI Final Edition is unlikely to be the end of the performance monster, according to the head of the Japanese firm’s UK arm.

Speaking at the Geneva Motor Show, managing director of Subaru UK Chris Graham said: “I’d never think it’s the final, final edition [of the WRX STI].

“We don’t yet have any dates from Japan for a relaunch, but I think we could see it as a hybrid.”

Last November, the Japanese manufacturer unveiled the WRX STI Final Edition, a limited-run of only 150 units that is set to be the swansong for the legendary nameplate.

As it stands, it’ll be the last of a model line extending back to 1994 when Subaru introduced the first WRX STI as a homologation vehicle for its World Rally Championship efforts.

The Japanese firm doesn’t currently offer a hybrid vehicle in its lineup, but it’s believed the next generation Forester will be the first to buck this trend.

Graham suggested that electric models would begin to flow in from there, saying: “Gradually, bit by bit, it will all become petrol, and petrol hybrid, then electric.

“You can’t say there’s no future for diesel, but in terms of the manufacturing it’s slowed down dramatically for it.

“As Volvo has said diesel is not the way they want to go, I think Subaru will do the same.”

Should the WRX STI return, the chances of an engaging manual gearbox appearing on the car seem unlikely because Subaru’s EyeSight safety technology isn’t currently compatible with one.

Instead, if it does get the brand’s pre-collision braking and cruise control kit, it is more likely it will feature a CVT transmission.

Graham said: “I’m not sure Eyesight is compatible at all with a manual gearbox. My gut tells me it will be Eyesight with Lineartronic long term.”

Fans of the legendary Subaru WRX STI still have an opportunity to get their hands on a car before it disappears from the firm’s line-up for the time being, with pricing starting at £33,995 for the Final Edition.