SUBARU SHOWS OFF THE WRX STI TYPE RA AND BRZ TS
Fans were left salivating in anticipation after a teaser campaign by Subaru, and the US arm of Japanese automaker has FINALLY revealed the two new performance models: the Subaru WRX STI Type RA and the Subaru BRZ TS. Each special edition is limited to 500 units, but seems to be offered in the US only!
Subaru fans were hoping that the BRZ TS would finally feature forced induction, but this is not the case. Still no STI version of the BRZ unfortunately.
According to Subaru, the RA designation in the limited edition WRX STI model stands for "Record Attempt – referring to the track model that has just made a Nürburgring speed record!
The WRX STI Type RA features a gorgeous Cherry Blossom Red accent around the front mesh grille and new rear bumper cover and apparently delivers "increased performance" through weight reduction, suspension tweaks and engine upgrades.
In addition, it comes standard with a carbon-fibre roof panel, a carbon-fibre pedestal wing and lightweight BBS 19-inch forged alloy wheel wrapped in 245/35 R19 Yokohama Advan Sports rubber. The spare wheel has even been taken out of this model to save weight.
While the vehicle is still powered by a 2,5-litre turbocharged Boxer engine, peak power has been increased to around 231 kW – four units up – thanks to an STI-specific cold air intake, a high-flow performance exhaust, a retuned ECU and "stronger pistons". The six-speed manual transmission also features a revised third gear ratio paired with a short throw shifter.
Handling had been upgraded thanks to inverted front struts and rear double wishbone suspension, all with Bilstein dampers. According to Subaru, a modified multi-mode VDC gives the car a "better stability control", while the Brembo brake system, with monoblock six-piston front callipers and dual-piston rear callipers, comes with a beautiful silver finish and is paired with cross-drilled discs.
As for the BRZ TS, Subaru has said that this model provides "pure handling delight" thanks to STI-tuned front and rear Sachs dampers and coil springs as well as flexible V-braces in the engine compartment. New draw stiffeners are added to the chassis and subframe to improve steering response.
In addition, the Subaru BRZ TS is equipped with 18-inch lightweight STI wheels shod with 215/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport 4 tyres. Brembo brakes add to the package as well.
The first thing you'll probably notice is the new aggressive-looking exterior with a noticeable (manually adjustable) STI rear carbon-fibre spoiler, as well as STI front, rear and side under spoilers. The BRZ TS has the same sexy Cherry Blossom Red accents as the WRX STI above, while the fog lamps have been removed and replace with STI covers.
The 2,0-liter Boxer-four under the BRZ bonnet remains untouched!