For those of you who feel the beloved Impreza WRX STI has gone a little soft, Subaru has responded with the Special Edition; a sportier, decontented STI. The Special Edition borrows suspension from the Japanese STI spec C, including a thicker rear stabilizer bar, stiffer rear sub-frame bushings, upgraded springs and JDM 18″ alloys. The drivetrain is untouched, meaning you get the standard STI 2.5L boxer four, good for 305hp and a six-speed manual.
What does the STI Special Edition owner give up? The HID headlights are replaced by halogens, auto climate control gives way to manual A/C, the 10 speaker, 6-disc CD stereo is replaced by a single disc 4 speaker unit, and no turn signals in the side mirrors. Even with the upgraded suspension, the Special Edition will sticker at $32,995USD, a full two grand less than a regular STI. A limited run of 125 cars will be offered in Spring of 2010 in Aspen White, then the car will be available in all STI colors.
The aspen white color exterior looks gorgeous and the cost also sounds cheaper than the base model.