Subaru To Intro Additions To WRX Line at LA Auto Show

By Marc Stern

Marc Stern

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According to reports that surfaced a couple of days ago, Subaru will be expanding its performance-oriented WRX STi series with two new models, a Special Edition and a Limited.

The Special Edition will take not only a page but also parts from a version of the WRX STi sold in Japan, known as the Spec-C.

The new STi will, no doubt, have a firmer ride and better handling thanks to a 16 percent increase in front spring stiffness and a 29 percent increase in rear spring stiffness. It will also offer more neutral handling, as it will sport a thicker anti-roll bar and beefed up subframe bushings.

AutoWeek noted that the new model would not be equipped with items normally associated with the performance-oriented machine. Instead of HD headlights, the Special Edition will sport halogens and buyers will neither find the 10-speaker, top-of-the-line sound system nor will they find climate control. Instead, the sound system will consist of a single-CD player with four-speaker sound.

The upgraded model will ride on the same 14-spoke spec C wheels that are installed on the Japanese models, AutoWeek noted. And, the first 125 of them will be painted in a special shade of white. Eventually, this model will be rolled into the regular product mix coming from Subaru's assembly lines.

At the very top of the WRX line, Subaru will be introducing the WRX Limited. This luxury model will be plusher than other models in the WRX line and will include leather seats, a moonroof and satellite radio.

Subaru's Impreza lineup already includes the:

• WRX Premium
• WRX STi
• WRX 2.5GT

In its standard trim, the STi is a formidable force, offering a turbocharged version of Subaru's Boxer four that cranks out 305 horsepower and about 290-pounds-feet of torque. It also offers, as standard, vented discs with Brembo calipers and pads. Any way you look at it, this is a formidable combination.