VA Series II

Subaru gave its WRX and STI performance pair a 2018 model year update, boosting the all-wheel-drive sedan with additional equipment, revised exterior styling and a new top-spec variant dubbed the STI spec.R.

Price rises came with an increase in specification, with Subaru including Jurid performance brake pads, red painted brake callipers, new 18-inch wheels, heated door mirrors, LED foglights, and revised suspension as standard across the range.

Non-Premium variants added adaptive LED headlights and daytime running lights, a 5.9-inch infotainment system, dusk-sensing headlights, rain-sensing wipers and roof carrier brackets, while the WRX Premium and STI Premium also gained electric lumbar support.

Automatic WRX variants were equipped with Subaru’s EyeSight driver assistance technology, as well as an electronic park brake and auto hold.

The STI range added yellow six-pot front and two-pot rear Brembo brakes with cross-drilled brake rotors, 19-inch wheels, a new front bumper and grille, red seatbelts and revised suspension.

Added to the STI Premium and STI spec.R was a front-facing camera, while the new top-spec sedan also gained Recaro seats with power adjustment, seat heaters and seatback pockets.

Changes to the exterior included subtly restyled LED headlights, new front bumper and foglight bezel design, and the 18- and 19-inch hoops for the WRX and STI, respectively.

Inside the changes were minimal, with the door switch panel, instrument panel centre, gear shift surround panel and steering centre bezel all finished in black moulding for the WRX and high gloss black in the STI.