Subaru retires the gas-powered WRX STI while it explores electrification

Photo by David Graff/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images

The next-generation car could be electric. According to a press release shared by the automaker on Friday, there are no plans for a gas-powered STI.

The next generation internal combustion engine will not be produced based upon the new WRX.

The reason for the change is the regulations and requirements for greenhouse gasses, zero emissions vehicles, and Corporate Average Fuel Economy.

The STI is the flagship performance vehicle of the company. The STI could trade its exhaust pipe for a battery pack. The Solterra is expected to go on sale sometime this year, and features both front-wheel and all-wheel-drive models that come with 71.4kWh batteries.