Japan-Spec 2018 Subaru WRX STI Gets One Feature US Fans Won’t See

The Japan-spec 2018 Subaru WRX STI details have been released and it gets one feature performance fans won’t see in the US models. Subaru Japan says the newly-updated 2018 WRX STI will be released on June 20, 2017. It gets the same exterior styling language, upgraded 18-inch Brembo brakes, revised DCCD AWD system, upgraded suspension tuning, Steering Responsive Headlights (SRH), new 19-inch wheels, Recaro performance seats and new interior materials as US models.

One upgrade US models won’t get

Under the hood, Japan-spec Subaru WRX STIs come powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve AVCS twin-scroll turbo Boxer power plant. It comes with 304 hp and 311 lb. ft of torque. It comes in the standard WRX STI and the upper WRX STI Type S trim. U.S. models still come with the 2.5-liter producing 305hp, and 290 lb. ft of torque. This is not a new power plant for the Japan-only STI. It’s been running it since the new-generation model arrived for the 2015MY.

Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has been testing the WRX STI in Japan with the 2.0-liter direct injection turbo "DIT" boxer engine with upgraded blueprinted internals, a set of carefully weighed and balanced pistons, and a larger capacity ball-bearing turbocharger. But there’s now word on when it will be dropped into the WRX STI.

Also new for 2018 STIs, the performance-tuned sedans get 8-way power Recaro performance front drivers seat with red stitching, red accents and STI logo. They are Subaru’s first power-adjustable Recaro seats offered in the WRX STI. They are an option on the Japan 2018 Type S models. U.S. models also get the performance seats (standard on STI Limited, optional for base trim).

Performance fans around the globe are still waiting for Subaru to offer the 2.0-liter direct injection turbo "DIT" boxer engine in the STI outside of Japan. It will likely come in the 2020MY when the WRX STI gets a complete remodel with the new Subaru Global Platform.

Photo credit: Subaru Japan