High-Output Subaru Headed to U.S.

Subaru Corp. developed the limited-edition WRX STI S209 sports wagon specifically for the U.S., marking the first time the carmaker will offer an S-tuned model outside of Japan.

The carmaker unveiled the S209 at this week’s Detroit auto show and will launch sales this summer. Production of the vehicle, which is expected to start at more than $50,000, will be limited to about 200 units.

Power will come from a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer 4-cylinder tuned to make 341 hp, making the S209 the most powerful STI ever. The base WRX STI is rated at 310 hp. Mid-range torque also is expected to increase by about 10%.

The carmaker’s in-house tuner unit, Subaru Tecnica International, led the development program. Upgrades include a larger turbocharger, which Subaru says increases boost by 11% to 18 psi, and lighter and stronger forged pistons and connecting rods.

The S209 also gets a high-flow air intake system and fuel pump, larger fuel injectors and a reprogrammed ECU. The exhaust system has 17% less airflow resistance, according to the carmaker. In a nod to the 2004-2007 STI, the new S209 will have an intercooler water spray system controlled via steering wheel paddles that drivers can use to lower the intercooler temperature.

The engine will be mated to Subaru's close-ratio 6-speed automatic. Other goodies include Brembo brakes, Bilstein shocks, stiffer coil springs, a 20-mm rear stabilizer bar and a host of aerodynamic enhancements.

To enhance track-ready handling, the front and rear track have been widened by 0.6 inch. In addition, the front cross-member and rear subframe are reinforced, and the S209 gets a flexible front strut-tower bar and flexible front/rear draw stiffeners to boost lateral stiffness and driving dynamics.