After years of speculation, new reports from Japan suggest that Subaru’s electric crossover, the Solterra, could finally get the long-rumored STI version next year. Set to coincide with the mid-lifecycle update of the electric crossover, this performance-focused variant could come with several upgrades, though it’s more likely to focus on handling than sheer horsepower.

STI Concept, But No Performance Promises

The idea of a performance Solterra isn’t purely wishful thinking. Subaru unveiled an STI concept alongside the supercar-like STI E-RA study at the 2022 Tokyo Auto Salon, though it withheld details on specifications. At the time, rumors swirled that the production model would hit the market by the summer of 2024. But as the months went by with no STI news, that timeline began to look increasingly optimistic.

Fast forward to today, and Japanese outlet Best Car is back with new information, reheating those old rumors with a fresh twist. The publication now claims that the performance-focused Solterra will arrive in 2025, as part of a facelift that will focus on improving the EV’s e-TNGA underpinnings.

More: Toyota And Subaru’s Next Joint Electric SUV Coming In 2026

While the new STI trim is expected to maintain the same dual electric motors, power and torque are likely to get a boost through software tuning. Even if a significant horsepower increase seems unlikely, the report suggests that Subaru is prioritizing improvements to the Solterra STI’s handling. The goal appears to be a more engaging driving experience, complemented by sportier design elements—think a sharper body kit and wheels that echo the concept’s flair. At the very least, the Solterra STI should look the part, even if it doesn’t fully meet performance expectations.

Could Toyota’s bZ4x Get The Same Treatment?

The Subaru’s electric twin, the Toyota bZ4x, is also expected to undergo a facelift in 2025, making us wonder if it could get a similarly sporty trim borrowing cues from the GR Sport concept from 2022. A few years ago, the bZ lineup’s chief engineer mentioned discussions with Gazoo Racing about a more powerful bZ4x, though the specifics were never disclosed.

Did You Know About The Solterra STe?

If you’re tired of waiting for a Solterra with the Subaru Tecnica International emblem, there is an alternative, though it appears to be available only in the German market. The Solterra STe was actually unveiled in November 2023, but for some reason, it flew under the radar of most automotive media.

The sportiest Solterra yet swaps out the usual plastic cladding for body-colored panels and rolls on 20-inch black alloy wheels, giving it a more aggressive, road-hugging appearance. Other highlights include the STe emblems on the exterior and the custom floor mats. However, the fancier looks are not backed up by any performance upgrades under the skin, meaning the Solterra STe still relies on the stock AWD powertrain, delivering a modest 215 hp (160 kW / 218 PS). That’s hardly what you’d call a powerhouse in today’s electric SUV market.

More: Is This Our First Look At The 2026 Toyota RAV4?

The STe package is available as a €3,500 ($3,700) option for the high-spec Platinum and Platinum Plus trims of the Solterra. The latter is priced at €53,890, meaning that a full-spec Soltera STe costs an eye-watering €57,390 ($60,400) in Germany.

For comparison, a quick browse on Tesla’s website reveals that a new Model Y Performance can be had for as little as €54,970 ($57,900) in the same market. The Tesla delivers more than double the power of the Subaru, with 527 hp (393 kW / 534 PS) on tap, along with a longer WLTP range of 514 km (319 miles). The difference in performance and pricing explains why you don’t see many Soltera STes cruising on German roads.

Hyundai has unveiled a limited-edition Kona Electric in Japan, designed to embody a rugged and more adventurous spirit while packing in a few choice accessories. Dubbed the Hyundai Kona Mauna Loa, this special variant will be limited to just 30 units, marking it as the most exclusive iteration of the Korean SUV to date.

The Japanese special is named after the world’s largest active volcano, which is located in Hawaii. The highlight is the “Wild & Tough Black” paint that has been applied on the bumpers, fender flares, and side skirts, making them more durable and scratch-resistant. The resulting looks are reminiscent of the unpainted plastic bumpers of models from the ’90s, similar to the Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT.

More: Hyundai’s Baby EV Gets Adventure-Ready With New Inster Cross

The Kona Mauna Loa rides on new black alloy wheels shod in Toyo Open Country A/T tires. Hyundai also added mudguards and black accents on the greenhouse and badging. Other off-road bits include an exclusive roof cross bar, suitable for carrying camping and hiking gear. The only color option is Mirage Green.

Moving inside, we find light-gray leather upholstery with yellow accents. The all-weather luggage and floor mats made of rubber make it easier to clean the interior after a hiking session in nature. Other cool accessories include a foldable stool, a storage solution for the seatbacks, and cargo boxes for arranging things in the boot.

The Hyundai Kona Mauna Loa doesn’t feature any performance or chassis modifications compared to the Kona Electric. This means that the single electric motor with 201 hp (150 kW / 204 PS) still powers the front wheels, sourcing energy from the larger 64.8 kWh battery pack.

Hyundai will only make 30 units of the Kona Mauna Loa, which sounds weirdly exclusive for a special edition of a mainstream SUV. Pricing starts from ¥4,950,000 ($32,565), making it only ¥55,000 ($362) more expensive than a high-spec Kona Lounge, and ¥110,000 ($724) cheaper than the sportier Kona N Line.

Hyundai Japan

Toyota Chairman, former CEO, and founding family member Akio Toyoda has always been forthright about his views on EVs. While the Japanese automaker has been reserved about its commitment to an all-electric future, trying to toe the line between alternative fuels, hybrids, and EV adoption, Toyoda has gone on record before saying the push by governments and manufacturers towards banning ICE vehicles was shortsighted.

Now, the Toyota chairman has predicted that if an EV-only future is on the horizon, the automotive sector, especially those working in ICE tech, will lose millions of jobs. He made these remarks during an event at Nagoya University in central Japan, where he was unveiling a bust of his father, Shoichiro Toyoda.

A Threat to Jobs and Suppliers

“There are 5.5 million people involved in the automotive industry in Japan. Among them are those who have been doing engine-related (work) for a long time,” said Toyoda. “If electric vehicles simply become the only choice, including for our suppliers, those people’s jobs would be lost.” According to Reuters, Toyoda followed up these comments by reaffirming his preference for gasoline vehicles.

Related: Toyota Slashes EV Production Target By 33%, Report Says

Toyoda’s comments echo similar remarks he’s made over the years. In addition to predicting industry job losses, the Toyota chairman has also blasted politicians for their push for EVs and claimed that Japan would run out of electricity in the summer if all vehicles were electric. Instead, Toyoda advocates for a more balanced path toward carbon neutrality, one that includes hybrids and cleaner internal combustion engine vehicles.

Toyoda’s outspoken stance hasn’t proven to be a popular one in the past. During his tenure as CEO of Toyota, the company was ranked as the third most obstructive company towards government efforts to curb climate change. Earlier this year, his most recent reelection as chairman was objected to by some investors who feel his outlook is flawed.

Toyota Thrives Amid an EV Slowdown

Despite the controversy, Toyota is currently reaping the benefits of a slowing EV market. While the share of EVs continues to grow, the rate at which it does so has seen a significant slowdown, prompting other automakers such as Ford, GM, and Volvo to reassess their previously EV-heavy strategies. Toyota, on the other hand, is selling more cars than any other manufacturer in the US, largely thanks to its robust (and growing) range of hybrid offerings.