Electric Cars

Subaru recently showcased the WRX STI Sport# prototype at the prestigious Tokyo Auto Salon, signaling a significant development for enthusiasts of performance vehicles. This new iteration primarily serves as a manual-transmission version of the WRX S4 STI, a model previously available exclusively in Japan with an automatic gearbox. The unveiling followed a period of intense speculation, driven by a series of teaser videos that suggested the potential return of a fully-fledged STI model. While the Sport# prototype does not represent an entirely new high-performance STI, it directly addresses a long-standing demand from the driving community for a more engaging and driver-focused experience.

Subaru's New Prototype: A Closer Look at the WRX STI Sport#

At the recent Tokyo Auto Salon, Japanese automaker Subaru introduced its latest concept, the WRX STI Sport# prototype. This highly anticipated vehicle is essentially a version of the existing WRX S4 STI, which has been sold exclusively in Japan, but with a crucial upgrade: a manual transmission. Previously, the WRX S4 STI, powered by a 271-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer four-cylinder engine (similar to the standard WRX available in other markets), was only offered with an automatic transmission. The introduction of the Sport# prototype signifies Subaru's acknowledgment of the enthusiast community's strong preference for a manual gearbox in its performance models.

While specific details remain somewhat limited, initial observations from the Tokyo Auto Salon suggest that the Sport# prototype features a distinctive, more textured grille mesh. Notably, the large rear wing characteristic of the regular STI models appears to have been removed from this prototype. Additionally, a vibrant red strip encircling the car's lower body was visible on the display model, though its presence in other photographs suggests it might be an optional aesthetic enhancement. Subaru has yet to release a comprehensive list of specifications, but further updates are expected as more information becomes available. The unveiling at the Tokyo Auto Salon, rather than a global event, and its exclusive YouTube livestream in Japanese, initially tempered some of the earlier excitement generated by Subaru's teaser campaigns. Nevertheless, this development indicates Subaru's ongoing commitment to evolving its performance offerings.

This unveiling serves as a potent reminder to Subaru of the fervent desire among enthusiasts, particularly in markets like the United States, for high-performance vehicles that offer an uncompromised driving experience. Given that a new, dedicated STI model has not been released in the U.S. since the 2021 model year, the anticipation for any STI-branded development is understandably high. While the Sport# prototype might not be the full-strength STI that many had hoped for, it demonstrates Subaru's responsiveness to consumer sentiment. The company's prior presentation of two STI-branded hot hatches at last October's Tokyo Auto Show further underscores their awareness of market demands. This ongoing dialogue between manufacturer and consumer suggests a promising future for Subaru's performance division.

Nissan's latest reveal, the Aura Nismo RS concept, marks a significant stride in the realm of high-performance hatchbacks, featuring a revolutionary powertrain design. This vehicle is part of Nissan's strategy to broaden its Nismo performance-car offerings, aiming to double its existing lineup in the coming years. Unveiled at the Tokyo Auto Salon, this concept car merges aggressive aesthetics with an innovative propulsion system that sets it apart from traditional hot hatches.

Nissan's Aura Nismo RS Concept Debuts with Unique Hybrid Powertrain

At the recent 2026 Tokyo Auto Salon, Nissan showcased the Aura Nismo RS concept, a compelling addition to its performance lineup. The Aura, an elevated version of Nissan's subcompact Note hatchback, first introduced in Japan in 2004, has received a high-performance Nismo RS variant. This concept distinguishes itself with a striking widebody design, a substantial rear spoiler, and an aerodynamic kit, signaling its sporty intentions.

Key specifications include a lowered ride height of 20 millimeters (0.8 inches) and extended fenders, adding 145 millimeters (5.7 inches) to its width. The vehicle is also 142 millimeters (5.6 inches) longer than the standard Aura, and with an additional 100 kilograms (220 pounds) of weight, it reaches a total curb weight of 1,490 kilograms (3,285 lbs). It features Nismo-branded 18-inch black wheels and upgraded brakes, although it retains a torsion-beam rear suspension setup.

Under the hood, the Aura Nismo RS concept incorporates Nissan's advanced e-Power system. This innovative configuration utilizes a 1.5-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine as a generator, exclusively charging the battery pack. The vehicle is propelled by electric motors on both the front and rear axles, making it an all-wheel-drive performance hatchback. The front motor delivers 201 horsepower and 330 Newton-meters (243 lb-ft) of torque, while the rear motor provides 134 horsepower and 195 Newton-meters (144 lb-ft). Notably, this drivetrain is borrowed from the larger X-Trail/Rogue Nismo, indicating a robust and tested system. While Nissan has not yet committed to a production version, the company plans to further develop and race the car, hinting at its potential market release as a swan song for the current Aura generation.

The Aura Nismo RS concept represents an intriguing direction for Nissan, particularly with its e-Power hybrid system. While it's unlikely to be sold outside Japan, its existence demonstrates Nissan's willingness to experiment with alternative powertrains in performance vehicles. The emphasis on an electric-driven hot hatch, albeit with a gasoline-powered generator, offers a fresh perspective compared to conventionally powered models. This approach could redefine expectations for performance cars, blending efficiency with thrilling driving dynamics, even if its appeal might be niche among enthusiasts accustomed to direct engine-to-wheel power delivery. This innovative concept could pave the way for future performance models that prioritize electrification while retaining the spirit of Nismo's racing heritage.