Subaru ACX STI And VPX STI Names Hint At A New Performance Mystery

New Models from Subaru?

It’s only recently that Subaru has been introducing new nameplates in its lineup. That’s largely in part to its expanding EV lineup, but the hybrid and combustion-powered models have remained largely the same. With that, the company’s latest trademark filings are a bit of a mystery.

Earlier this year, Subaru filed for the trademarks ACX and VPX. It’s not the typical nomenclature from the brand, as it tends to use actual words to name its vehicles, save for the BRZ. More interestingly, the company also wants to claim the names ACX STI and VPX STI. So, what in the world is Subaru up to these days, then?

Decoding the Names

The STI suffix for both names is highly suggestive of sporty models, but it’s still unknown as to what these might be used for down the line. However, if we were to follow tradition, the X might stand for eXperimental. That’s the case for the WRX, as its full name is World Rally eXperimental.

So, it might be something new for Subaru, then, but it doesn’t quite answer what the remaining letters could possibly mean. We’re thinking of the other motorsports programs of Subaru, which currently revolve around GT racing in Japan, endurance racing in Europe, and rallying in America. Of course, it could stand for something completely different, perhaps a new technology that Subaru would like to showcase in the future.

The Possible Cars

Interestingly, Subaru had used the name ACX before – over 40 years ago, to be exact. In 1985, the company showcased the ACX-II Concept at that year’s Tokyo Motor Show. That car eventually became the XT that later evolved into the SVX. It was also known as the Alcyone in its home market. Perhaps ACX could mean Alcyone Coupe eXperimental, but we’re just thinking out loud.

It is, however, worth pointing out that Subaru showed a coupe concept about three years ago. Shown at the 2023 Japan Mobility Show, it was called the Sport Mobility Concept and was larger than the BRZ. With that, Subaru has been toying with the idea of building another coupe for a few years now, although admittedly, releasing a coupe in a crossover-obsessed market is quite a gamble these days. Then again, Honda pushed through with its Prelude.

So, the ACX has some history behind it, hence why VPX is such a mystery right now. So far, we’re drawing blanks as to what it might be should Subaru use the name. Of course, the folks from Gunma could simply not apply the name anywhere and keep everyone guessing. Either way, these recent trademark applications suggest that the company isn’t letting go of the idea of sporty models in its future.