With every generation of Subaru WRX STI, there comes a limited run special edition model with a couple of tweaks that really set them apart from the competition. The vanilla WRX STI is already a pretty potent machine, but these S-denoted models are even more aggressive and sharper to drive. At the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show, Subaru has unveiled the all new S207, based on the Version 11 WRX STI. Like S models of before, the S207 gets a faster steering rack for even quicker steering response. Steering feel with this generation of WRX STI isn’t the best among performance cars, but hopefully a quicker steering system should reduce the time and effort needed to hustle the S207 through the bends.
Power output is up to a respectable 328 PS, even though the motor doesn’t sport the FA20’s direct injection system. That’s a decent increase, though not as high as the A45 AMG or even the up and coming Golf R420. That being said, you can be sure that the flat four in the scooby is built to Japanese reliability standards, and boxer engines are not known for being particularly powerful to begin with.
Suspension has been swapped out from the sporty stock set to something from Bilstein, featuring the DampMatic II system for the front. It’s not an electronically adjustable suspension, but it does offer owner some degree of damping adjustment, with some passive adjustment for high and low speed shocks. There’s some extra strut bars and components as well for further chassis strengthening. It’s hard to believe that there was a time when 4-pot brakes were serious stuff. The S207 comes with 4-pot calipers as well, but they’re positioned at the rear. The front end of the car gets some massive 6-pot brakes, both courtesy of Brembo. Tyres go up to 255 mm wide rubbers over 19 inch wheels, for some extra grip to take the acceleration and braking forces.
Subaru is offering an NBR Challenge Package, said to commemorate Subaru’s class victory at the Nurburgring during the 24-hour race this year. 100 units will be made available in the in Sunrise Yellow, with another 100 units available in the other colours. The NBR Challenge Package cars also get a nice big wing on the back for some extra downforce. The remaining 200 S207 units will be up for grabs before the end of November.
