Subaru WRX STI Type RA top-spec sedan debuts

Subaru is wooing its fans with an updated edition of its popular WRX STI sedan with just a single photo. Called the WRX STI Type RA, the new car features a bunch of visual updates along with a flurry of performance upgrades.

Under the hood, the Type RA sports the same 2.5-litre boxer engine albeit with an extra 5 horses over the standard WRX STI. The total output of the engine stands at 310 hp. The torque figure is not out yet, but even the standard car produces an adequate 393 Nm. For the power hike, mechanical spruce-ups like the addition of a new cold air intake, a high-performance exhaust, beefier pistons and a remapped ECU have to be thanked. An updated six-speed manual with a short throw shifter is hooked up to this engine. The dynamic manners of the Type RA get a polish with the addition of an optimised suspension with Bilstein dampers for both the axles and an STI-tuned Vehicle Dynamics Control System. The brakes are Brembo units with cross drilled rotors that dissipate heat better.

Most visual updates of the new WRX STI Type RA are centered around the mission to shave off weight. The carbon fibre hood and rear spoiler slams some kilos off the standard car’s weight of 1535 kg. 19-inch forged alloy wheels from BBS are wrapped in 245/35R19 Yokohama Advan Sport rubber. The car also sports Cherry Blossom red accents around the front grill and the rear bumper cover. The badges, side mirror caps, and antenna are painted in black. For the body, three colour choices are available, Crystal White Pearl, WR Blue Pearl, and Crystal Black Silica.

The interior of the car is fitted with a pair of Recaro sport seats and a plaque on the centre console to denote the individual number of each car out of the 500 that will be made. The Type RA is also fitted with Push-button start, Keyless access, red stitching and a steering wheel covered in Ultrasuede. The WRX STI Type RA will go on sale in the first quarter of 2018 in other markets, although it may not come to the UAE and GCC.