On a recent stop over at Subaru Tecnica International in Mitaka I spotted a rather interesting JDM-only version of the new GVB Impreza WRX STI Sedan, the tS.
I initially thought this brand new satin white pearl example was soon to be picked up by its lucky owner, but it turned out that once registered, it would become…
…STI's own demonstration car. Seeing the great fun I usually have when testing anything STI fiddles with, I'm already looking forward for a drive in this latest addition to the "Tuned by STI" tS line-up.
Engine wise there is no change from the regular GVB, except the manual does get a special twin scroll turbocharger.
Like every complete STI car the tS gets the very innovative Flexible Tower Bar. In fact I've been so intrigued by this little passive suspension/chassis upgrade that I'm currently testing one out on my Legacy Wagon, but more on this later on in the month.
The interior on top of tS badging on the kick-plates…
…gets these cool optional Recaro half leather half Alcantara sports seats.
Of course one of the most obvious additions to the Impreza tS is the carbon fiber roof, meant to shave precious weight off the top of the car to lower the center of gravity, thus improving handling-feel and precision. Obvious performance advantages aside, it looked really nice against the body's shade of pearl white.
Lightweight 18-inch STI wheels further point out that this is not your ordinary GVB.
The rear is finished off with a small trunk spoiler that improves aerodynamics by decreasing lift at high speeds.
Which Impreza WRS STI do you guys think looks better, hatchback or sedan? Is the tS a car you'd like to see sold in other countries too?
-Dino Dalle Carbonare