Subaru to Focus on Performance at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon
At its stand at the 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, Subaru will shift its focus to performance, moving away from off-road themes in favor of speed, handling, and track-oriented updates. The brand has confirmed it will present six cars: three special versions of production models and three racing cars developed for competition.
The main lineup will consist of bright yellow twins, the WRX and Levorg, bearing the long name “STI Sport R-Black Limited II STI Performance edition.” Their distinctive feature is the bright Sunrise Yellow color combined with matte black 18-inch alloy wheels and black accents on the grille, side mirrors, and roof antenna.
Interior and Equipment of the Special Editions
Inside, the sport sedan and wagon are equipped with Recaro seats featuring yellow perforated upholstery, black stitching, and suede inserts around the dashboard. No confirmed changes to engine power or suspension geometry have been announced, but Subaru notes that both cars will be fitted with a range of original STI Performance accessories and parts.
Limited Edition Impreza and a Gift for Visitors
Next in the lineup is the Impreza ST-H STI Performance Edition with the Plus package. It is based on the ST-H trim but enhanced with STI Performance parts for improved handling precision and visual effect. While official photos show the model in Subaru’s classic blue, the show car will be painted black with bright red interior accents for contrast. The real surprise is that Subaru plans to raffle off this customized Impreza among visitors who fill out a survey during the event.
Subaru’s Racing and Rally Cars
The lineup will also include three cars specifically developed for racing and rally. The most important premiere will be an all-new model intended for the 2026 Super Taikyu series. Subaru has not yet revealed full specifications but confirmed the car will run on carbon-neutral fuel, have high performance, and serve as a testbed for next-generation technologies.
Joining the mysterious model will be an upgraded version of the BRZ GT300, prepared for a return to the Super GT championship next season. Subaru aims to reclaim the championship title it last won in 2021. The motorsport trio will be completed by an updated WRX VBH rally car, tuned for competition in the JN-1 class of the All Japan Rally Championship.
Announcements and Future Plans
The manufacturer plans to maintain interest by releasing teasers on the eve of the Tokyo Auto Salon, which opens on January 9. The first teaser appears to show a blue WRX STI S4 with the characteristic sound of a manual transmission. This version is expected to appear in the Japanese model lineup during 2026. More details are expected to emerge in the coming days.
Coming soon
Subaru’s presentation at the auto salon clearly demonstrates the brand’s strategic pivot back to its performance roots. The emphasis on the STI Performance series, despite the discontinuation of standalone STI models, indicates a desire to cater to an enthusiast audience seeking exclusivity and sporty characteristics. The parallel presentation of racing prototypes, especially the carbon-neutral fuel model, points to a search for balance between the brand’s motorsport heritage and future environmental requirements. The raffle of the special Impreza among visitors is an interesting marketing move for direct audience engagement and generating buzz even around a non-flagship model.