New 2015 Subaru XV STI launches in Asia but won’t be coming to the U.S.

The new 2015 Subaru XV STI Performance gets new STI performance package styling and enhancements, but don’t look for it here in U.S. showrooms. Subaru has launched the new 2015 Subaru XV STI Performance crossover in Malaysia and it’s in Asian showrooms now for sports enthusiasts. XV is already a sporty looking model from Subaru, but this new STI-enhanced model takes it up another notch.

What upgrades does XV STI get?

The new STI Performance Edition features aerodynamic add-ons and interior upgrades to set it apart from the standard XV 2.0i. Sportier exterior enhancements include front, rear and roof spoiler, side skirts, daytime running lights and the STI Performance badges to set it apart. Interior enhancements include chrome climate control dials, matte silver steering wheel control panel and side panels. There’s also a new exterior color to choose from for XV STI called Desert Khaki.

No STI engine upgrades

Although the 150hp 2.0-liter Subaru Boxer engine, CVT automatic transmission and four-wheel-drive system are the same as in the regular XV, it gets a special strut-tower bar fitted in the engine compartment of the STI Performance Edition that Subaru says will improve handling by as much as 30 percent on the new crossover. And STI says the aerodynamics of this XV STI Performance model will reduce front and rear lift by 50 percent.

Why no XV STI for the U.S. market?

We are starting to see more STI-enhanced Subaru cars around the globe like the new 2015 Subaru Forester STI that was just revealed in Japan this weekend. It's an indication that Subaru is expanding the STI influence in more of the Japanese automakers lineup. Motor Image has partnered with Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd for the local assembly of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia and displays the first XV STI to this global market.

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Will we see it in the U.S.? Don’t expect to see the 2015 Subaru XV STI Performance Edition here in the U.S. The U.S. is Subaru’s largest market by far and sales are booming and they haven’t seen the need to entice buyers with more STI-enhanced vehicles. They have chosen to stay with the 2015 Subaru WRX STI as their flagship performance model. There won’t be any 2015 Subaru XV Crosstrek or 2015 Forester STIs for U.S. buyers.

Other 2015 XV Crosstrek stories of interest.
New 2015 Subaru XV models immediately earn highest safety rating