Subaru Announces New Australian-Spec WRX S-Edition; Why Will Fans Choose it Over the Faster STI?

The new 2017 Subaru WRX S-Edition is coming for Australian performance enthusiasts and it gets infused with STI accessories, but it’s only available for a limited time. Why will many choose it over the faster STI?

Not everyone wants the more extreme Subaru WRX STI high-performance sedan with the performance suspension, firmer ride and a big wing on the back. So Subaru Australia announces a new WRX S-Edition for fans who want the look, without the extra cost of the STI. The Subaru WRX is being purchased by a new generation of fans who still want the superior driving dynamics and sporty feel along with WRX’s all-wheel-drive capabilities. Is there more to it than just looks?

2017 WRX S-Edition

This model will still turn heads when it comes down the street and it comes infused with Subaru Tecnica International (STI) accessories. 2017 WRX S-Edition accessories includes: 18" STI base performance wheels, STI front lip spoiler, STI shift knob (manual or automatic transmission), STI Strut tower bar, dark window tint, and a special S-Edition badge on the rear trunk lid. It’s what’s under the hood that will sway many performance fans to buy it.

An upgraded mill vs the STI

The new WRX may not have as much horsepower as the WRX STI (305hp), but many think it has a better powerplant. The 2017 WRX S-Edition is powered by the 268-horsepower 2.0-liter direct-injection turbo Boxer engine that made its debut in 2015. This was a return to its roots as the first 2002 U.S. spec WRX came with a 2.0-liter 227hp turbo engine. This is the all-new 2.0-liter FA turbocharged Boxer version of the Forester 2.0 XT powerplant. The WRX version uses different cams and higher-rate valve springs and other enhancements to enhance the performance envelope. It’s been recognized as one of the best 4-cylinder turbos in the world.

The WRX’s 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Boxer engine was named to the prestigious Ward’s 10 Best Engines nominees list again last year. Most performance fans like it better than the STI’s aging 2.5-liter mill and for good reason. The WRX’s 2.0-liter turbo engine comes with direct fuel injection, high compression (10.6:1), Subaru Dual Active Valve Control System (D-AVCS), a twin-scroll turbocharger and an intercooler to achieve outstanding performance and high efficiency. Go to Page 2.

The 2017 Subaru WRX S-Edition is available for Australian performance fans and only for a short time. The STI extras are available at a price of $2,350 (AU) over the current MSRP of the standard WRX Premium. The WRX is still a great performance car value for fans who want the WRX STI look without the higher price. Many performance enthusiasts think the 2.0-liter FA turbocharged Boxer engine in the WRX is an improvement over the STI’s aging 2.5-liter mill. It’s why many will choose the special edition model over the faster WRX STI.

Photo credit: Subaru AU