by Subaru has launched the WRX STI Sport# in the Japanese market. It features a tweaked engine, an STI-tuned chassis, and optional aero. Production is limited to 600 units available through a lottery system.
Subaru has introduced a limited edition WRX STI Sport# in Japan, which debuted at the Tokyo Auto Salon. This model combines hardware from STI with a refined boxer engine and, most importantly, a six-speed manual transmission, finally offering a true three-pedal option for this generation in the domestic market. Production is limited to 600 units, with allocation to be handled via a lottery system.
Exterior and Optional Trim
Externally, the STI Sport# sits on 19-inch matte gray alloy wheels, similar to the American WRX TR version. However, the Japanese model features STI emblems on the grille and trunk lid. Interestingly, Subaru opted for a subtle trunk lid spoiler instead of a full rear wing like on the R-Black Limited STI Performance Edition.
For those wanting a more aggressive look, Subaru offers an optional STI aero kit, which includes sharp bumper extensions and matching side skirts, painted in either black or cherry red. The kit is harmoniously complemented by a quad-exhaust system, but, surprisingly, it cannot be combined with the optional STI Performance muffler, forcing buyers to choose between visual effect and enhanced sound.
The color palette for the STI Sport# is limited to three options: WR Blue Pearl, Ceramic White, and Sunrise Yellow. The latter color, as expected, will cost extra.
Interior and Rejection of Excess
The interior features standard Recaro seats upholstered in Ultrasuede faux suede and leatherette with yellow perforation and an STI emblem on the headrests. They are complemented by a leather-wrapped gear knob and handbrake lever. Options include floor mats and various STI-logo gear knobs.
To emphasize the driver-focused orientation, Subaru removed some technological features from the standard WRX S4. Specifically, to reduce weight, the EyeSight X safety system package, the functions linking the rearview mirrors to the gearbox and their folding, seat position memory, rear air conditioning vents, and cupholder illumination were removed.
STI-Tuned Chassis and Balanced Engine
The most important updates are hidden under the body. The STI Sport# is equipped with electronically controlled dampers from ZF with special tuning from STI, complemented by a strut tower bar and additional stiffening elements to improve handling and stability.
The braking system is represented by an upgraded Brembo system with gold-colored monoblock calipers: six-piston at the front and two-piston at the rear, clamping perforated discs for better heat resistance. Tires are Bridgestone Potenza S007.
Under the hood, the turbocharged 2.4-liter boxer engine develops the same 271 hp (202 kW) and 350 Nm of torque as the standard WRX S4. However, it has received a number of refinements, and Subaru calls it a “balanced engine.”
STI engineers reduced the permissible weight deviations for pistons and connecting rods by 50% compared to standard production components. The crankshaft, flywheel, and clutch pressure plate also underwent a precision balancing procedure, resulting in smoother rotation and more immediate response to driver inputs.
Limited Availability and Model’s Future
The Subaru WRX STI Sport# costs ¥6,105,000 (approximately $38,400), making it the top version of the sports sedan in the Japanese market and ¥803,000 (about $5,000) more expensive than the STI Sport R-Black Limited.
Purchase applications will be accepted at dealerships from April 9th to May 17th, after which 600 lucky winners will be determined by lottery.
Despite the limited run, the Japanese publication Creative Trend reports that a more affordable version of the WRX S4 with a manual transmission may appear in the lineup from the 2027 model year. This version will not include the precision-balanced engine or the full STI hardware package.
Subaru also confirmed that the STI Sport will not return to the WRX lineup after the 2026 model year. Along with the Performance-B STI concept and HiPerfX2 race cars, this has fueled rumors about a future WRX STI, which could potentially return as a hatchback with wide fenders.
Subaru WRX STI Sport# with optional cherry red STI aero kit.
The appearance of such a limited and technically refined version as the STI Sport# indicates a strategic move by Subaru: to satisfy enthusiast demand for “pure” manual transmission and enhanced performance, while simultaneously preparing the market for potential changes. The production limit and lottery sales system not only create hype but also serve as a marketing tool to maintain interest in the STI brand in an era where electrification is becoming the main trend. The rejection of some conveniences in favor of weight reduction is a clear message to automotive purists that driver engagement remains the priority. The future of the WRX STI lineup remains an open question, and each such special edition is viewed by fans as a possible prototype for the next generation of true sports Subarus.
