Here's a detailed summary of the 2019 Subaru Impreza GK/GT WRX STi S209:
Overview
The 2019 Subaru Impreza GK/GT WRX STI S209 is a high-performance variant of the Impreza compact car, developed in collaboration with STI (Subaru Tecnica International), Subaru's performance tuning division. It marks the return of the STI badge to the US market after a three-year hiatus.
Engine and Performance
The S209 is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four engine, producing 310 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. This represents an increase of 40 horsepower over the standard WRX STI model. The engine features a new intake system, a revised ECU, and a free-flowing exhaust system to optimize performance.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The S209 is equipped with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is available as an option. Power is sent to all four wheels via Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
Suspension and Brakes
The S209 features a stiffened suspension setup, including stiffer springs, shocks, and anti-roll bars. Brembo front brakes with six-piston calipers and two-piece rotors are also standard equipment, while the rear brakes feature single-piston calipers and two-piece rotors.
Exterior and Interior
The S209's exterior design is characterized by a more aggressive stance, including a revised front bumper with air intakes, a more pronounced rear spoiler, and 18-inch alloy wheels shod in Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires. Inside, the car features Recaro seats, STI-branded steering wheel and shift knob, and Alcantara-trimmed door panels.
Special Edition Features
The S209 is based on the WRX STI sedan and is essentially a limited-production, track-focused variant of that model. As such, it includes a number of special features, including:
- Exclusive "WR Blue" paint scheme
- Lightweight 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires
- Recaro sport seats with Alcantara-trimmed door panels
- STI-branded steering wheel and shift knob
- Brembo front brakes with six-piston calipers
Technical Specifications
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four
- Power: 310 horsepower at 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 290 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm
- Transmission: Six-speed manual (CVT available as option)
- Drivetrain: Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
- Suspension: Stiffened springs, shocks, and anti-roll bars
- Brakes: Brembo front brakes with six-piston calipers; single-piston calipers rear
- Wheels/Tires: 18-inch alloy wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tires
Production and Availability
The 2019 Subaru Impreza GK/GT WRX STI S209 was produced in limited numbers, with a total of just 209 units built for the US market. It was available through select Subaru dealerships starting from spring 2019.