If Subaru wants to sell more Impreza compacts, they need to build this Impreza Sport STI concept they unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show. Subaru said they will be bringing more STI-enhanced vehicles to production, and here’s one they need to bring to production sooner than later.

Subaru announced at the New York International Auto Show 2015 that more models tuned by STI will be available in the U.S. in the future. These STI-enhanced Subaru’s will feature more extensive modifications from the factory than previously offered, such as suspension, performance, braking, chassis and aerodynamic upgrades. Subaru also said STI-engineered parts will replace Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) aftermarket parts in the U.S. market.

The Impreza 5-Door is the perfect vehicle for Subaru to let their performance partner, Subaru Tecnica International (STI), get their hands on. Subaru needs a hot hatch model since they dropped the WRX/STI hatch in 2015. Now that they build the Impreza at their US plant in Indiana, it would fit perfectly in their portfolio of U.S. performance cars.

Japan and Europe get the Levorg STI Sport hot hatch, so why not let U.S. performance fans get a hot Impreza STI hatchback model? It would be easy for Subaru to drop in the WRX-sourced 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo (DIT) boxer with 268hp with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The show model, Subaru Impreza Future Sport Concept, looks pretty cool with the body kit, larger wheels and performance tires, and high-performance custom exhaust with two STI tips sticking out the back. The show model comes in a Sunshine Yellow livery and also gets sporty front and rear bumpers, with a lower center of gravity and more dynamic shape than the current model.

It’s all speculation, but an Impreza STI hatchback would likely be a big hit with performance fans around the globe and especially in the US since Subaru doesn’t offer a hot hatch WRX/STI. So far, Subaru is waiting on a WRX/STI hatchback variant. Fans would certainly buy a compact sports tourer like the new 2018 Subaru Impreza hatch STI unveiled at the Tokyo Motor Show. It would be sporty, fast, agile and offers greater utility.

Photo credit: Subaru Global