Subaru BRZ STI Performance Concept ushers STI into the USA

A one-off show car with two purposes, the Subaru STI Performance Concept bowed in New York. It draws its inspiration and components from the hot Subaru BRZ GT300 competing in Japan’s Super GT Series. Like that racer, this showpiece was created by Subaru Tecnica International, the automaker’s official performance/performance parts division known as STI. In addition to serving as an exercise in future models, it heralds a new and significantly expanded role for STI in the American market. 

STI-spec cars on the way

While Subaru has yet to offer specific details on how STI fits into U.S. sales, it has confirmed that STI-tuned models will extend beyond the WRX STI. In the home market, STI currently produces versions of the BRZ and Forester as well as the iconic WRX and also has a large catalog of street/racing parts. Subaru says that upcoming STI-spec models for America could incorporate more extensive modifications from the factory, including suspension, performance, braking, chassis and aerodynamic upgrades. 

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"At STI we know from our racing that to win, it is important not only to have high power, but also that all aspects of performance are balanced over the whole car," said Yoshio Hirakawa, president of Subaru Tecnica International. "When we achieve this balance, the driver feels that the car is easy to handle and reliable, and he can use it fully to the limits of its performance. Our plan is to produce cars and accessories that drivers can really enjoy."

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While Subaru provided few specifics on the STI parts found on the Performance Concept, it did confirm this scintillating coupe is powered by the same 2.0-liter/350-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled boxer four found in the Subaru BRZ GT300 racer and ships that force to the rear wheels via a 6-speed sequential gearbox. In addition to its full STI body kit with a carbon fiber-enhanced front splitter, side sills, rear diffuser and fixed deck wing, the Performance Concept features upgraded STI brakes and lightweight 19-inch alloy wheels, a custom interior treatment with a bespoke instrumentation and an on-board performance data recorder.

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