Big decisions loom for next Subaru WRX this week

Subaru is currently plotting the future of the next-generation WRX STI. Company delegates from various world markets are currently headed to Japan to decide whether the rally bruiser will continue to be a hardcore racer straight from the factory or if it will head in a new, somewhat posher direction. According to GoAuto.com (and previous reports), the new STI will be significantly different from the base Impreza and WRX, and that difference may translate into a more upscale performance model. Think something along the lines of a BMW M or a Mercedes-Benz AMG machine.

Regardless of which direction the model takes, odds are we can expect to see a turbocharged version of the new 2.0-liter dual-overhead cam boxer four-cylinder currently found in the Forester. Nick Senior, Subaru Australia Managing Director, has been quoted as saying the engine is compatible with forced inductions, countering earlier reports.

While Senior says he hopes the STI will continue to be a rally thoroughbred, his vote only counts for so much. Australia is the fourth-largest Subaru market behind the U.S., Japan and China.

http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/b...wrx-this-week/

 

Sort of like the Celica Supra dropping the whole Celica relationship? It sure worked in 1988...

 

Car would have so much more appeal if the styling was improved. Has to be one of the frumpiest sedans in production.

 

yea i agree, its competitor the EVOX completely trumps it in looks. Too bad they are axing the evo

 

2.0L from the Forester? What 2.0L? Subaru doesn't even have a 2.0L, at least not in the states.

 

The FA20 used in the BRZ/FRS could be the engine used for the next WRX, with the turbo.

 

Yea, I know the BRZ uses a 2.0L, but the article referred to the 2.0L currently used in the Forester.