Tokyo show: Subaru uncovers exclusive S207

SUBARU has taken the covers from a limited-edition 241kW S207 version of its WRX STI, which is restricted to just 400 units for the Japanese market.

The S207 shows the potential of such a special-edition model for the Australian market, however Subaru Australia has confirmed it is not on the agenda for sale here.

Having said that, the Australian distributor is establishing closer ties with the Subaru Tecnica International performance division in Japan, confirming earlier this week that it will bring 300 examples of the STI-spec Forester tS to Australia in the first half of next year – a move that paves the way for other enhanced vehicles in future.

A sticking point with the S207 is its use of the Japanese-spec 2.0-litre turbocharged boxer four-cylinder engine, whereas the Aussie STI uses a 221kW/407Nm 2.5-litre unit.

The costs involved in local homologation are a concern for Subaru Australia, which in the case of the Forester tS has meant it will stick with the XT’s 177kW 2.0-litre turbo rather than specify the 206kW version in the Japanese limited edition, which has the same torque of 350Nm.

The key selling points are the extensive chassis modifications, cosmetic enhancements and general specification upgrades that come with the exclusive STI-tweaked vehicle.

With the S207, this includes a quicker steering gear ratio (11:1), STI-specific components such as a flexible tower bar, ‘DampMatic II’ front suspension with adjustable damping – said to be a first for a Japanese auto-maker – and front-rear Active Torque Vectoring, “all of which combine to achieve a strong yet flexible ride and sharp cornering”, Subaru says.

Stopping power is enhanced with a high-performance Brembo package that has ventilated disc brakes front and rear with six-piston callipers clamping the front rotors and four-piston callipers at the rear (all monobloc).

A “specially designed” 19-inch wheel-and-tyre package with forged alloy rims and 255/35 Dunlop Sport Maxx RT rubber was also developed.

The S207 is readily identifiable by its aerodynamic modifications, including a large front spoiler, while the cabin features STI-spec Recaro front bucket seats and customised sports instruments.

An “NBR Challenge Package” is also available (limited to 200 units), featuring a big carbon-fibre rear wing and an ornament commemorating Subaru’s victory in the SP3T class in the 2015 Nurburgring 24-Hour Race.

Three body colours are available – WR Blue Pearl, Crystal White Pearl and Crystal Black Silica – while 100 units dubbed “NBR Challenge Package Yellow Edition” will be finished in vivid Sunrise Yellow.