Photo Credit - Subaru / Subaru WRX STi S210

I am not sure what I want the Clutsh Blog to be yet, is it for company and product related posts only or can I post opinion? If I post opinions does that make it seem like I have unreasonable biases and cant be a trusted advisor when searching for the right car? I am not sure if this will be an ongoing thing in the blog, but this news is making waves .. and I own a 2021 WRX STi so I feel I am really well informed when it comes to old STi and new “STi” so maybe my thoughts could be interesting to some.

Lets start with the facts before I move to opinion

The 2025 Subaru WRX STI S210 Prototype is a limited-edition version of the latest WRX, reviving the coveted "S-series" STI designation. While it boasts a tweaked 2.4-liter turbocharged flat-four engine with a modest power bump to 296 hp and 277 lb-ft of torque, along with upgrades like electronically adjustable dampers, a carbon rear spoiler, and six-piston Brembo brakes, the S210 has stirred controversy among enthusiasts. The biggest point of contention is its exclusive pairing with Subaru's Performance Transmission, a CVT, marking the first time an S-series STI has lacked a manual gearbox. Limited to just 500 units and featuring unique styling cues and a serialized interior plaque, the S210 will undoubtedly be a collector's item, but its performance credentials and overall appeal, especially given the absence of traditional STI features like an advanced differential, remain to be seen. Pricing has not yet been announced.

Quick table comparing the new S210 with the previous STi and STi S209

I am not an STi purest in that I am upset they used the name for this limited edition car so much as I am astounded that they thought that was a good idea .. like at all. WRX is a real thing, and this is a legitimately cool version of the WRX so thats all good. The issue really is STi in the naming or the announcement at all, or calling it the S210 inviting everyone to compare it to the S209 and being disappointed more than was needed. It sets a bar the new car cant meet and invites anger and frustration when it wasn’t needed.

When I bought my ‘21 STi it was for a couple of reasons. 1 of those was it was certified pre-owned which was the last time you will ever be able to own an STi with the power train covered, which in my opinion is the only way to own one you rely on at all for anything. The other was I think they are cool cars! They legitimately are a statement, they are fast, and the last generation is pretty good to travel in honestly. I have thoughts on how the STi compares to the Focus RS that I also own but I am not looking to start wars today.

It sucks because the S210 is the coolest looking WRX variation on the current design yet. Those seats look fucking serious, and I think over time the body style of the WRX has grown on me. I still think those fender trim pieces are insane, and the rear diffuser was made for people without eyes .. but the front end I think is genuinely sharp.

Photo Credit: Subaru

I guess I just doing get it and by it I mean mostly the whole thing. Even if you compare this machine to the pared down list of competition on the market today it still doesn’t add up. Its hard to know what they were thinking. The thing I am definitely not is upset. As a current previous gen STi owner if anything I am excited Subaru seems to have lost it with their performance cars because it means mine will retain more value longer. People are having some crazy gut-reactions to this thing that I am not going to join in on.

Also, this article is a great excuse to show some photos of my STis (both the Lapis Blue 2020 and the Red 2021), so I am going to do that. If you want to learn more about the STi from a guy that has owned both a 2020 and a 2021, hit me up! We can also talk about your opinions on the S210 if you want.