North America is getting its first limited-edition Subaru model with the WRX STI S209 unveiled today at the Detroit Auto Show.
Unfortunately for buyers in Canada, however, the Subaru WRX STI S209’s limited run of 200 units is reserved only for the U.S.
The good news here is that at least Subaru sees some potential for its exclusive models with even more performance on this side of the ocean. The Subaru S line of models, starting with the first Impreza S201, have been forbidden fruit for Subaru enthusiasts in North America for years. Although we’ve enjoyed the WRX and WRX STI, we always knew we weren’t getting the full experience.
The new Subaru WRX STI S209 is certainly the full experience. It still has a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine under its hood, but output is pushed to 341 horsepower, 31 more ponies than the current 2.5-liter in the WRX STI. A six-speed manual transmits the power to all four wheels as expected.
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The Return of The Intercooler Spray on the WRX STI S209
Subaru Tecnica International has added some rally-inspired goodies in the S209, namely the driver-controlled intercooler spray which sends a jet of water on the intercooler to lower air temperature and increase power. How cool is it to pull back on a paddle and inject air into the intercooler?
This feature was available on the first-generation North American WRX STI sold from 2004 to 2007.
An improved suspension promises to deliver even better handling than in the WRX STI according to Subaru who calls the S209 its best STI vehicle ever.
We desperately want to drive the Subaru WRX STI S209, but chances are we’ll never get the chance to do so. At least not right now. Our recommendation, however, is that if you can get your hands on one of the 200 or so S209s coming to the U.S., do it. This car has collectible written all over it.
Subaru WRX STI S209 Pictures
