Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the renowned performance division of Subaru, has unleashed a beast onto American roads: the Sti S209. This limited-edition marvel marks a historic moment as the first-ever S-line STI vehicle meticulously engineered and built exclusively for the U.S. market. As an S-line creation, the S209 represents the pinnacle of Subaru performance, embodying comprehensive enhancements in power, handling, aerodynamics, and driver engagement. This isn’t just an upgraded WRX STI; the S209 undergoes a specialized final assembly in Kiryu, Japan, where it receives bespoke engine modifications and bodywork transformations. The extent of these changes necessitates a unique U.S. homologation by STI, solidifying the S209’s status as the first truly “STI-built” Subaru to grace American soil.
Born from Racing: The STI S209’s Nürburgring Pedigree
The STI S209 doesn’t emerge from a vacuum; it’s deeply rooted in a lineage of high-performance STI models, previously exclusive to the Japanese Domestic Market, ranging from the S201 in 2000 to the S208 in 2018. However, its true inspiration and technological DNA are drawn directly from STI’s formidable WRX STI Nürburgring Challenge racecar. This racing pedigree is undeniable, as the S209 inherits technology directly honed from the grueling 24 Hours of Nürburgring, where STI has triumphed in the SP3T class an impressive six times, including in 2019. Mirroring its Nürburgring conquering sibling, the S209 boasts a dramatically widened stance thanks to an expanded wide-body exterior treatment. This aggressive design broadens the car’s overall width to a commanding 72.4 inches, a full 1.7 inches wider than a standard WRX STI. These muscular, bulging fenders aren’t just for show; they purposefully accommodate wider front and rear tracks (+0.6 inches front/rear) and house bespoke 265/35 Dunlop® SP Sport Maxx® GT600A summer-only tires. These high-performance tires are specially developed by Dunlop for the S209 and are crucial in achieving the car’s exceptional lateral grip exceeding 1.0 g. Further enhancing performance and cooling, functional vents are integrated into the front fenders to boost engine cooling, while rear fender vents are strategically placed to manage airflow, reducing drag and increasing vital downforce. To ensure stopping power matches the enhanced performance, the S209 is equipped with Brembo brakes featuring cross-drilled steel rotors and robust 6-piston monoblock front calipers and 2-piston monoblock rear calipers. These are paired with upgraded high-friction pads, delivering superior fade-resistance for consistent braking performance even under extreme driving conditions.
Engineered for 极致 Performance: Handling and Chassis Upgrades
Beneath the S209’s imposing wide body lies a meticulously engineered chassis and suspension system designed for ultimate handling prowess. Specially developed Bilstein® dampers are at the heart of the system, working in concert with stiffened coil springs, a 20mm rear stabilizer bar, and pillow-type bushings for the front and rear lateral links. These components work together to provide a supremely responsive and communicative chassis. Chassis rigidity is further enhanced by reinforcements to the front crossmember and rear subframes. Borrowing yet more technology from the Nürburgring racecar, the S209 incorporates a flexible front-strut tower bar and flexible front/rear draw stiffeners. Unlike conventional rigid strut bars, the flexible tower bar is ingeniously split and joined with a pillow ball joint at its center. This unique design allows for longitudinal movement while maintaining lateral stiffness, optimizing tire grip during cornering without compromising ride comfort during straight-line driving. The draw stiffeners further refine chassis flex by applying tension between the body and cross member. This optimizes chassis behavior, enhancing stability during cornering and contributing to improved ride quality, handling precision, and steering response. Adding to the aerodynamic sophistication, the S209 features front, rear, and side under spoilers, front bumper canards, and a lightweight carbon-fiber roof panel and rear wing – all technologies trickled down directly from the Nürburgring racecar program.
Power Unleashed: The Upgraded EJ25 Engine
Powering the STI S209 is a thoroughly reworked iteration of Subaru’s legendary EJ25 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. This enhanced powerplant features an STI turbocharger manufactured by HKS®, pushing output to an impressive 341 horsepower at 6,400 rpm. This power increase is achieved through a combination of enhancements, including a larger turbine and compressor (increased by 6 and 8 percent respectively compared to the standard WRX STI) and a significant boost in maximum boost pressure, now reaching 18.9 psi (up from 16.2 psi in the WRX STI). Each S209 engine proudly displays a unique serial number plate, signifying its bespoke nature. Beyond peak horsepower, the enhanced BOXER engine delivers a substantial boost in midrange torque, producing 330 lb.-ft. at 3,600 rpm. This surge in mid-range power translates to quicker corner exits and enhanced on-track performance.
Driver-Focused Engineering: Transmission, Drivetrain, and Technology
The STI S209 is engineered for ultimate driver engagement, offered exclusively with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. This gearbox channels power to Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, complete with front and rear limited-slip differentials, a Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD), Active Torque Vectoring, and Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control. This sophisticated drivetrain ensures optimal power delivery and control in all conditions. The S209 also features a recalibrated SI-Drive system, offering three distinct modes: Intelligent (I) for optimized fuel economy and smooth power delivery, Sport (S) for a balanced blend of responsiveness and control, and Sport Sharp (S#) for maximum acceleration performance. STI engineers recommend utilizing Sport mode for circuit driving, as its less aggressive throttle mapping allows for finer driver control and modulation. To further optimize engine performance, the S209 incorporates a high-flow intake system. This system includes a new intake duct, an induction box with a conical air filter, a silicone turbo inlet duct, and a nostalgic nod to the 2004-07 WRX STI – an intercooler water spray system. This manually operated system, activated via steering-wheel paddles, lowers intercooler temperatures, enhancing engine efficiency. To match the increased airflow, the S209 is equipped with a new high-flow fuel pump, larger fuel injectors, and an STI-tuned engine control module. High-performance mufflers reduce airflow resistance by 17 percent, while larger, hand-polished stainless-steel exhaust tips (101mm in diameter) deliver an aggressive aesthetic and a thrilling exhaust note.
Exclusive Design and Limited Availability
The STI S209 receives a host of exclusive design cues to distinguish it from other STI models. Inside, an STI badge replaces the traditional Subaru star cluster on the D-shaped steering wheel, which is wrapped in Ultrasuede® with elegant silver stitching – a treatment that extends to the center console storage box lid. An S209 serial number badge is prominently displayed on the center console, while S209 badges adorn the passenger-side dash and the headrests of the supportive Recaro® front bucket seats, which feature unique silver-hued inserts. Externally, special S209 badges are affixed to the front grille, fenders, and rear decklid, further emphasizing its exclusivity. Production of the STI S209 is strictly limited to just 209 units, all earmarked exclusively for the U.S. market, making it a truly rare and collectible performance machine. Exterior color and BBS wheel combinations will be offered in WR Blue Pearl with gray wheels and Crystal White Pearl with gold wheels, allowing for a degree of personalization within the limited production run. Pricing details will be announced closer to its on-sale date in late 2019.
The STI S209 is more than just a car; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to Subaru and STI’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance and delivering an unparalleled driving experience. For U.S. driving enthusiasts, the STI S209 represents the ultimate expression of the WRX STI lineage, a true STI-built legend ready to conquer both road and track.
