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These might be deemed as the “unaccounted days” for Subaru’s esteemed STI label—for the time being, at least. Subaru revealed STI enhancements for its latest Impreza hatchback and a greatly restricted Levorg STI wagon at this week’s Tokyo Auto Salon. These offerings fall shy of the robust, full-fledged STI model and fall even further short of ever making their way to the U.S. When we reached out to Subaru for a statement, a representative opted not to respond.
The “Impreza equipped with STI Components” (using Subaru’s wording, not ours) features a dual exhaust system mounted in the center, side skirts, a spoiler, and distinctive STI wheels paired with a 2024 Subaru Impreza—a vehicle that premiered at the Los Angeles Auto Show last year. Subaru provided limited details about these enhancements, mentioning only that they are currently “in development,” and it’s improbable that these will be offered by Subaru dealers beyond Japan. Historically, STI has been recognized in Japan as a supplier of aftermarket components and an exclusive in-house tuner rather than a renowned nameplate and high-performance sedan or wagon as it is perceived in the United States. Whereas STI holds appeal for Subaru devotees in Japan, its reputation has long been established as a supplier of aftermarket parts without the same level of exclusivity that it enjoys in the U.S. This essentially translates to, “Japan anticipates STI-branded components, while the U.S. anticipates full-blown STI vehicles.”
This by no means implies there were no offerings available. Subaru exhibited a limited-edition Levorg STI Sport# Prototype derived from the Levorg STI Sport R EX model. This wagon, limited to a production of 500 units, commences at 5,240,000 Yen ($41,000) and highlights a 271-horsepower, 2.4-liter flat-four engine coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The Levorg STI is equipped with firmer anti-roll bars, new struts, and adaptable dampers. The 19-inch forged BBS wheels present an impressive appearance, albeit from a considerable distance across the Pacific Ocean. It’s a certainty we’ll never witness it on American soil.
More inclined to make an appearance in some manner in the U.S. is the Crosstrek Boost Gear design, referred to as “Crosstrek Overlander.” The Boost Gear features robust Yokohama Overlander M/T tires, abundant tough exterior cladding, a modest elevation increase, side rails, a roof rack, and an awning. While it’s improbable to give rise to a new trim level in the U.S., there is a chance that certain elements from the Boost Gear could potentially be offered as dealer-installed alternatives.
View the presentation down below.
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