Subaru Releases More Powerful WRX in Japan
The first step for those who want more from the new Subaru WRX is to buy a plane ticket to Japan.
The brand has just released the WRX S4 and WRX STI Type S in its home market of Japan, offering more power, unique looks and tweaked driving dynamics.
Power still comes from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the base WRX S4, but the motor has been tuned to produce 296 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, an increase of 28 hp and 37 lb-ft of torqe compared to the North American WRX. Before you get too jealous of the Japanese option however, the base model is only available with Subaru’s CVT.
SEE ALSO: 2015 Subaru WRX Review
All-wheel drive remains standard just like here, but unique body and chassis modifications make the Japanese car stiffer while the steering is revised to feel more direct and connected. For looks, the WRX S4 gets new side sills, customer exhuast tips, a trunk lid spoiler, 18-inch wheels and a rear diffuser. Move inside, and the seats are leather, piano and carbon fiber trim is fitted and red accent stitching is found throughout.
Moving up, the WRX STI Type S gets its power from the same turbo four, but in this application it makes 305 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, a full 21 extra lb-ft than the North American car. Luckily, a six-speed manual is the only transmission you can get with STI Type S. A unique shifter with claimed improvements is debuting on the Japanese Type S, while the car also gets Subaru’s multi-mode driver’s control center differential.
GALLERY: 2015 Subaru WRX S4, WRX STI Type S
Discuss this story at our Subaru WRX Forum
Stephen covers all of the day-to-day events of the industry as the News Editor at AutoGuide, along with being the AG truck expert. His truck knowledge comes from working long days on the woodlot with pickups and driving straight trucks professionally. When not at his desk, Steve can be found playing his bass or riding his snowmobile or Sea-Doo. Find Stephen on <A title="@Selmer07 on Twitter" href="http://www.twitter.com/selmer07">Twitter</A> and <A title="Stephen on Google+" href="http://plus.google.com/117833131531784822251?rel=author">Google+</A>
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"Before you get too jealous of the Japanese option however, the base model is only available with Subarus CVT." Nope. Still jealous. Screw manuals.
The new Japan S4 states 258 lb. ft. of torque, which matches the North American spec. How do you figure the torque is up 37 lb. ft.