Fans of the Subaru WRX outside of Japan will be both happy and sad to hear this. A sweet limited edition WRX STI Type RA-R has been announced, and the car is limited to 500 units. The catch is that the car is for Japan only. It is intended to be lighter and better performing than other STI models.
Performance Enhancements and Weight Reduction
The RA-R is 30kg lighter than the S208 and S207 models and 10kg lighter than the base WRX STI. This significant weight reduction is achieved through the use of lightweight materials and a more streamlined design. Along with less weight, the car also gets an EJ20 Balanced Boxer engine making 329PS. This engine is a hallmark of Subaru’s engineering prowess, known for its reliability and performance. The car has an improved intercooler for better efficiency and more power, ensuring that the engine remains cool even under intense driving conditions.
Subaru fits the RA-R with front inverted struts and lowering coil springs and rear dampers with lowering coil springs. This setup not only lowers the car’s center of gravity but also improves handling and stability, making it a joy to drive on both city streets and winding mountain roads. It rolls on matte black BBS 18×8.5 wheels, which are both lightweight and stylish, adding to the car’s aggressive stance. Front and rear brakes are vented Brembo units, providing exceptional stopping power and heat dissipation, crucial for high-performance driving.
Advanced Turbocharging and STI Touches
The turbo is a twin-scroll ball bearing unit, which offers quicker spool times and more efficient power delivery compared to traditional turbochargers. This means that the RA-R can accelerate faster and more smoothly, providing an exhilarating driving experience. The car has lots of STI touches for style and performance, including a unique front grille, rear spoiler, and various interior enhancements like sport seats and a special STI-branded steering wheel.
The RA-R will be sold from July 19 through December 17 of this year with pricing at 4,998,240 JPY (about $45,000). This price point makes it a premium offering, but for enthusiasts who value performance and exclusivity, it is a worthwhile investment. The limited production run of 500 units ensures that the RA-R will be a rare and coveted model, likely to appreciate in value over time.
For those who are unable to get their hands on the RA-R, Subaru’s standard WRX STI models still offer a compelling blend of performance and practicality. However, the RA-R stands out as a testament to what Subaru can achieve when they push the boundaries of engineering and design.
The Subaru WRX STI Type RA-R is a remarkable vehicle that combines lightweight construction, advanced turbocharging, and numerous performance enhancements to create a truly exceptional driving experience. While it may be limited to the Japanese market, its impact will be felt worldwide as a benchmark for what a high-performance sedan can be. Enthusiasts and collectors alike will undoubtedly keep a close eye on this model, making it a significant chapter in the ongoing legacy of the Subaru WRX STI.
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