New Subaru WRX? Japanese carmaker set to unveil prototype later this year with new Boxer engine that's compatible with carbon-neutral fuel: report

In Japan Subaru has reportedly detailed plans to unveil a new prototype at this year’s Japan Mobility Show in October.

As reported by Japanese publication Best Car Web, it’s speculated this new prototype will preview a new-generation WRX sports car.

Subaru even showed off a shadowy picture of what appears to be this new prototype, as reported by Best Car Web.

It looks like a WRX with a bonnet scoop and pronounced front and rear spoilers.

This new prototype will also reportedly receive a new horizontally opposed (Boxer or flat) engine.

At this stage specifications have not been disclosed, although it will reportedly support E20 carbon-neutral fuel.

Subaru also reportedly hinted this new Boxer engine will support electrification, either as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid (PHEV).

Additionally, it’ll come with an “evolved” version of its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system that it has been using in the Super Taikyu Series in Japan.

This new prototype will reportedly be used for next year’s Fuji 24 Hours race. Subaru has historically used racing as a testing ground for developing its future technologies and products, much like Toyota.

“We want to value customers who choose Subaru,” said Subaru Chief Technology Officer Tetsuo Fujiniki to Best Car Web when translated from Japanese to English.

“We will continue to make cars that will help them do so.”

At this stage it’s unclear if this new Boxer powertrain will eventually lead to a new WRX STI.

The current-generation Subaru WRX was unveiled in 2021 and launched locally during 2022. It’s the first generation to be available without an STI performance flagship.

Subaru did however reveal the S210 prototype earlier this year, noting it as the “pinnacle of the STI complete cars”. It’s likely not going to be sold outside of Japan, however.