Mysterious Subaru WRX Prototype Spotted with Longtail-Style Rear End

Subaru has been producing the current-generation WRX for five years, and despite introducing various special editions, a proper STI model has yet to be launched. Recently, spy photographers captured a black WRX prototype testing at the Nürburgring, which features a unique rear end design. The front of the car looks identical to any other WRX, with the same grille, bumper, air intakes, and hood scoop.

However, the rear quarters have been modified with new panels that extend outward, sitting roughly in line with the taillights. A new lip spoiler also sits in line with these panels, giving the prototype a Longtail-like appearance. The design is intriguing, but it’s unclear what Subaru is planning with this prototype.

The rest of the car appears to be a standard WRX, with no enlarged air intakes or bigger brakes, and it doesn’t seem to have any additional power under the hood. This raises more questions than answers, and it’s unclear whether Subaru is developing a new special edition WRX or investigating ways to improve the performance sedan’s aerodynamics. The spy images emerged just a week after Subaru announced it’s bringing back a manual transmission option to the standard WRX in Japan, which is unrelated to the TY75 six-speed of the U.S. model.

Subaru is clearly investing time and resources in the current WRX, but whether that leads to a new STI remains to be seen.