Subaru has introduced a limited-edition Forester STI Sport model exclusively for the Australian market. This special edition is a sportier version of the regular Forester, featuring STI-tuned suspension, unique styling, and a range of additional features.
The story revolves around Subaru’s release of a special edition of the Forester, known as the Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD, aimed at keeping buyers interested in markets outside North America. This particular model is exclusive to Australia and builds upon Subaru’s approach of introducing limited-run, sportier versions of their popular SUV to sustain market enthusiasm, especially where newer models aren’t yet available. The Forester STI Sport AWD comes with various upgrades, some derived from its Japanese Domestic Market counterpart but with key differences, particularly in its engine performance.
Initially introduced in Japan in 2022 as the sportiest Forester trim, the STI Sport now makes its debut in Australia with the promise of delivering a unique blend of aesthetic enhancements and performance-oriented tweaks. The vehicle's exterior largely mirrors the JDM-spec version, albeit without the STI emblem on the front grille. Despite this small omission, the special edition maintains its sporty aesthetic through details like the red STI badge on the tailgate, 18-inch Dark Grey alloy wheels, and blacked-out accents on areas such as the grille, mirror caps, skid plates, and roof rails.
Inside, the cabin is fitted with premium Nappa leather upholstery in a blend of Black and Bordeaux, complemented by red stitching for a sporty flair. Additionally, the driver can enjoy the STI-branded instrument cluster, emphasizing the vehicle’s performance-oriented identity. The Forester STI Sport also comes loaded with standard features, including an 8-inch infotainment screen, heated front seats, a sunroof, and an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Subaru’s Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) are also part of the package, rounding out the vehicle’s tech and safety offerings.
One of the most significant distinctions between the Australian model and its Japanese counterpart is the engine. Unlike the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine in the Japanese version, the Australian edition is equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine, delivering 182 hp and 239 Nm of torque. This engine offers slightly more horsepower than the Japanese model but falls short in terms of torque, with 61 Nm less. Both versions come with Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system and a CVT gearbox, offering reliable all-wheel-drive performance.
Despite no power upgrades, the STI Sport in Australia features STI-tuned front and rear dampers, which aim to improve the SUV's driving dynamics. Subaru Australia is marketing the limited-run Forester STI Sport as a potential collector’s item, with a starting price of AU$ 53,812, making it AU$ 1,567 more expensive than the 2.5i-S trim it is based on. With a "strictly limited" production run, Subaru enthusiasts may be eager to get their hands on this special edition, which will be available in Australian dealerships in the coming weeks. The next-generation Forester, however, is not expected to arrive in Australia until 2025, further positioning this special edition as a sought-after model.