Subaru Impreza S-Edition Boasts STI Aesthetics but Performs Like a Rental | Carscoops
The special edition resembles a cozy hatchback but keeps the standard 2.0-liter engine under the hood.
Subaru has introduced a new special edition Impreza with STI enhancements in Australia.
The Impreza S-Design features 18-inch Enkei wheels and has a more aggressive aerodynamic profile.
Production is limited to 100 units, with prices starting at AU$42,490, approximately US$27,700.
Despite a strong legacy in rallying, the current sixth-generation Subaru Impreza has yet to see a genuine performance-oriented variant. Nevertheless, Subaru Australia has just unveiled a special edition that enhances the hatchback's design with STI accessories.
The Impreza S-Edition bears a resemblance to the STI Performance Parts prototype that was displayed at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. Its most striking feature is the set of 18-inch black Enkei alloy wheels, each adorned with a red STI emblem on the center caps.
Design Enhancements with STI Touches
The upgraded wheels are complemented by several aerodynamic additions, including a front splitter, rear skirt, and roof spoiler, all painted in glossy black. A new sports grille with a distinct mesh pattern sets the S-Edition apart. Buyers can choose from three paint options: Pure Red, Crystal Black Silica, or Crystal White Pearl.
Additionally, Subaru has included an STI-branded start button and a matching shift knob to make the cabin of the Impreza a bit more appealing. It's important to mention that all the previously mentioned upgrades were available as options in the Australian configurator, but this is the first time they are combined in a special edition.
Subaru Impreza S-Edition
Performance Remains Unchanged
Despite Subaru stating that the Impreza S-Edition “channels racing spirit from grille to tail,” there are no mechanical upgrades to speak of. The car is mechanically equivalent to the Impreza AWD 2.0S, powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS). Unlike US buyers, Australians do not have access to the more potent 2.5-liter boxer option.
Power is transmitted through a Lineartronic CVT to Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system. The suspension and brakes remain the same, although owners can choose a flexible tower bar for added rigidity.
Subaru will produce only 100 units of the Impreza S-Edition in Australia. According to CarExpert, the special edition costs AU$42,490 (US$27,700) before on-road expenses, which is AU$3,500 (US$2,300) more than the Impreza AWD 2.0S despite offering around AU$6,500 (US$4,200) worth of additional features.
In addition to the Impreza, Subaru has also presented a special edition of its crossover counterpart. The Crosstrek Onyx comes with 18-inch alloy wheels in a dark metallic finish and a black rear spoiler. This model is priced at AU$43,890 (US$28,500), making it AU$1,500 (US$975) more expensive than the standard Crosstrek AWD 2.0S trim on which it is based.
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Subaru Impreza S-Edition Boasts STI Aesthetics but Performs Like a Rental | Carscoops
The special edition resembles a warm hatch but keeps the standard 2.0-liter engine in the engine bay.