Subaru Displaying Next-Gen STI and 3 Racing Debuts at Tokyo Auto Salon

The Tokyo Auto Show has come and past in December, but now Subaru is prepping for the Tokyo Auto Salon where Japan's top automotive tuners come to display their wares. It has some major announcements planned for the show including the announcement of the BRZ Super GT GT300-class car, a concept for the next generation Impreza STI, a showcase of the future of the D4-S engine that is found in the BRZ and plans to compete in the 24 Hours of the Nuerburgring and the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. 

The BRZ STI Concept takes the basic BRZ and adds some STI-tuned bits including a carbon fiber roof and hood. It also has an STI-made front and rear spoiler and STI exhaust. Subaru also added Brembo brakes, Bilstein dampers and 18in wheels. 

Subaru will also show a concept for the next generation Subaru Impreza STI. The car at the show will be powered by a 2.0 liter engine, but Subaru is not revealing power figures. It is safe to expect it to be turbocharged and have around 300hp. Subaru at also equipped the new STI with front and rear spoilers, side skirts, and STI muffler, STI springs, 18in wheels and steel mesh brake lines. In an intersting turn, the concept will use a CVT transmission. Hopefully, this will not be the only transmission option, and a manual will also be available. 

Subaru has not had a factory World Rally Championship team since 2008, but it looks like it might be taking the first step towards returning by prepping an entry in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge. The IRC is aimed at amateur and young rally drivers, and it conforms to FIA Group A and Group N standards meaning cars with 2.0 liters or less of displacement. 

Like last year, Subaru also plans to compete in the 24 Hours of the Nuerburgring with a new, fourth generation Impreza STI. 

It will also have a display at its booth showing what it plans for the future for the D4-S engine that Subaru co-developed with Toyota for the BRZ/GT-86.

The Tokyo Auto Salon runs from January 13-15, and Subaru will stream its press conference via Ustream.