The extremely limited-edition 2019 Subaru STI S209 will cost buyers $64,880 — including the $885 destination fee — making it the most expensive Subaru ever available from the factory. But if you’re hoping to buy one, you’d better not wait: Only 209 will be available, exclusively for U.S. buyers.
Related: 2019 Subaru STI S209: A Small-Batch Rocket
What makes the S209 worth roughly $20,000 more than a WRX STI? Let’s start with the engine, where the S209 adds a turbocharger with a larger turbine and compressor as well as a higher boost pressure compared to the WRX STI. That results in 341 horsepower and 330 pounds-feet of torque for the S209, 31 more hp and 40 more pounds-feet than the 2019 WRX STI. The revised engine gets more cooling air from additional front fender vents, plus a new intake system that includes an intercooler water spray system like that of the 2004-07 WRX STI. Additional engine tuning and a higher-flow fuel system are also part of the S209’s bag of tricks.
More power is useless if a car can’t handle it, so Subaru widened the S209 to accommodate wider summer tires. There also are spoilers on the underside of the car at the front, rear and sides, along with canards (mini wings) on the front bumper. There also is, of course for an STI, the giant wing in back — and this time it’s carbon fiber along with the roof. To haul the car down to a stop, there are big Brembo brakes front and rear.
The suspension also gets a major overhaul, with stiffer springs, special dampers, different bushings and a 20-millimeter rear stabilizer bar. Reinforcements front and rear increase the car’s stiffness and track handling, as well.
The interior gets all sorts of racing-inspired accoutrements, including Recaro-brand seats and a D-shaped steering wheel. And, because some things are still right in this world, the S209 comes exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission.
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Don’t expect to be able to pick up an STI S209 for its sticker price, however. Given the exclusivity and the history of pricing for other sorts of special cars, there may be a significant markup when it lands at dealers later this year.
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