Subaru Australia has unveiled a tantalizing preview of an upcoming version of its WRX sports sedan, hinting at the return of the STI badge with a range of high-performance enhancements on a new top-tier model. The teaser video showcases a WRX sedan featuring Recaro front seats, gold Brembo six-piston brake calipers, black alloy wheels, STI-branded exhaust tips, and a prominent wing, reminiscent of classic STI styling cues. Notably, the sound of gear changes in the video suggests the potential inclusion of a manual transmission, sparking excitement among enthusiasts.
While the specifics remain shrouded in mystery, Subaru has confirmed that more details will be disclosed imminently, building anticipation for the official unveiling. The latest footage reveals the model will be badged as the WRX tS (Tuned by STI), clarifying the distinction from a full-fledged STI iteration. This development follows the 2022 debut of the current-generation WRX in Australia, which bid farewell to the traditional STI variant, including the renowned ‘EJ’ engine.
Since the discontinuation of the STI model, the top-tier tS sedan has been the closest alternative in Subaru’s Australian lineup, albeit with similar power outputs to the standard WRX range and exclusively paired with a CVT automatic transmission. Reports suggest that the tS trim may soon offer a manual gearbox, aligning with the configuration of the base and mid-spec RS variants. The features showcased in the teaser draw parallels to the exclusive WRX Club Spec released last year, hinting at a potential revival of the manual-only Club Spec as a permanent tS variant.
Interestingly, the teased model bears resemblance to the Japanese-market WRX S4 STI Sport R-Black Limited, which boasts Recaro seats and an STI rear wing, albeit with distinctions such as black mirror caps and sole availability with a CVT automatic transmission. Priced at 5,302,000 Japanese yen, the Japanese-exclusive variant highlights the diverse offerings across Subaru’s global markets, catering to unique preferences and specifications.
The upcoming WRX model is distinct from the recently unveiled WRX STI S210, another Japanese-exclusive edition featuring bespoke performance enhancements and increased power output. In Australia, the WRX sedan lineup commences at $47,490 for the manual variant, with the CVT automatic option priced slightly higher at $49,990 before on-road costs. The WRX RS stands as the most expensive manual Subaru model in the country, priced at $52,990 excluding on-road expenses.
All Subaru WRX variants available in Australia are equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine generating 202kW of power and 350Nm of torque. As anticipation builds for the official reveal of the enhanced WRX model, automotive enthusiasts eagerly await further details on the performance, features, and availability of the STI-inspired sedan, poised to offer a thrilling driving experience and uphold Subaru’s legacy of performance excellence.
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