When it comes to rally-inspired vehicles, few are as legendary as Subaru’s broad-bodied Impreza STi 22B coupe. With only 400 units ever produced, this special model remains highly coveted while staying out of reach for the average auto enthusiast, even after nearly thirty years.
Given its scarcity, companies like the UK-based Prodrive have taken on the challenge of creating remarkable replicas like the P25. However, with a hefty price tag of $564,098, it remains a luxury most can’t afford without DIY skills. Fortunately, Japanese performance specialist Cusco is now stepping into the arena of 22B imitations with its own version for fans of Pleiades.
via Cusco
At the core of Cusco’s 22B recreation lies a mystery. Cusco indicates the use of the “latest generation WRX powertrain and gearbox,” suggesting a variant of the FA24 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, particularly in the US market. However, their specifications also mention the EJ-series engine from a VAB WRX STI (Japanese market). Assuming this, a robust EJ20 delivers 304 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque to all four wheels.
This power output slightly surpasses the original 22B’s advertised horsepower of about 280 hp. Many believe the 22B was underrated from the factory and may have actually matched, if not exceeded, Cusco’s specifications. Nevertheless, Cusco appears to have kept the engine close to stock with only a few performance upgrades (except for a Fujitsubo exhaust). Overall, this should provide a genuine driving experience akin to the original model when unleashing the throttle.
The original GC8 drivetrain, suspension, and brakes have all undergone extensive enhancements. The stock transmission was replaced with a new six-speed manual gearbox, as were the original differentials, now substituted with Cusco-branded limited-slip differentials. The vehicle received an upgrade to Cusco Zero A fully adjustable coilovers, paired with front and rear Cusco sway bars. Enhanced braking power comes from a Winmax big brake kit, discreetly positioned behind a set of 19-inch Prodrive wheels shod with grippy Dunlop tires.
To complete the look of the vehicle aesthetically, the faux-22B receives a widebody transformation and is finished in the classic Sonic Blue color. Lastly, the driver is greeted with a set of Bride seats, a Prodrive harness, and a Prodrive steering wheel as interior enhancements.
This homage to the 22B made its debut at the 2023 Tokyo Auto Salon earlier this month alongside a Toyota GR86 and a new Nissan Z as part of Cusco’s exhibit. Although Cusco doesn’t seem to mass-produce these replicas like Prodrive, it’s still an impressive creation that preserves many of the original 22B driving qualities but with added flair, a quality that car enthusiasts will surely appreciate.
The exact price of this setup remains ambiguous, but according to photography guru Larry Chen, it is “relatively more economical” compared to the Prodrive P25. While some of Cusco’s aftermarket enhancements cost around $3,900 according to their specifications, major expenses like the engine and gearbox swap, brakes, wheels, premium interior components, body kit, and paint are left out.
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