Subaru WRX STI name could get a stay of execution in Australia

The local arm of Subaru is considering an Australian-tuned high-performance variant of its popular WRX.

Subaru Australia is considering a locally-tuned STI Performance variant of its all-new WRX sports sedan.

While Subaru globally has confirmed the demise of the hardcore high-performance WRX STI, representatives from Subaru Australia have hinted a locally-tuned variant could still be on the cards.

Subaru launched the new WRX this week, along with a host of STI aftermarket accessories including body enhancements, an STI 18-inch alloy wheel, and some uprated suspension components.

When asked if the prospect of an engine tune upgrade remained a possibility, a Subaru Australia spokesperson said they would prefer to “remain a bit coy”.

“I think it’s always great to see the passion our customers have and the desire for that,”  a Subaru Australia representative told Drive.

“We obviously always want to listen to what our customers are after. There’s a lot of discussions happening with Subaru Corporation and STI.

“We’re delighted to have a range [of STI enhancements] for launch but in terms of what is on the cards for the future, we’ll need to remain a bit coy on that.”

So not a no then?

“[It’s] not a ‘no’.”

Subaru WRX tuned by STI

Subaru Australia has some history working with STI for local variants of its high-performance WRX.

In 2007, the WRX Tuned By STI (pictured above) offered 179kW and 320Nm and 5.9-second 0-100km/h claim against the regular WRX’s 169kW and 320Nm and 6.1-second sprint time.

The WRX Tuned by STI was priced at $46,990 at the time, against the donor car’s $39,990.

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