Mark Moseley they said in testing there was a long-term reliability issue that popped up after the announcement, so they instead went with the non-forged design.
Driving Sports TV did they announce this anywhere? I for one was looking forward to the forged pistons and rods in this motor. After now knowing that this S209 will not have that kind of bottom end I don’t think the MSRP of $63,995 is worth it at all. The suspension modifications and slightly bigger turbo is nice and all, but I for one don’t think it pulls that much of a premium over the standard STi or the Type RA.
@Bimbo Jimbo The STI that "hasn't changed in 15 years" has gone from laptimes of 3:19 (2008) to 3:13.8 (2011) to 3:10.5 (2015) to 3:04.0 (2018) and now the S204 is said to go 2:59(!) at VIR, which is in territory of some very fast company. Something has changed, and I'll let you in on the secret: good chassis development, suspension tuning, powerful brakes, and sticky tires are just as important as horsepower. Not to mention, the STI is an all-day track car while the CTR is a couple-laps-then-overheat track car.
@@BlizzardWind99 I'm not sure, but i just watched a video where they said the 2020 WRX STI is in its last year of production. I hope the STI division stays.
I have a 2019 STI Limited. It's crazy good. Very quick and lots of fun to drive. The speed you can carry into turns is amazing. The grip is the best I've ever experienced. The three LSD's really do the job. I wish the info screen above the infotainment had a battery and oil temp reading. Don't know why they didn't include those. If you cruise at 70mph right around 4k RPM for long enough, you could get 26MPG on a flat highway. If you need to pass someone, sport mode will take you from 70 to 80mph in a blink. You have to watch your speed, it will get away from you and its quiet so you don't realize it. If you always wanted one, it's worth looking into.
@@harlemknight120 Hi Kevin. Yes I bought new and I was lucky to get one that only I test drove. I bought it right at the end of Feb 2019 and got them to come down from MSRP $43,000. Bill of sale says I paid $40,930 for Limited with low profile spoiler. I have short shift kit, and the plastic on the back bumper. I love the car and have no plans on ever selling it. It's that type of car. Very soon I will be making a 5000 mile review and posting on my channel.
Potential price aside, it looks like a fantastic car. I think in this UA-cam age where every car is reviewed on a track and given a hot lap, the term "performance" gets a bit lost. Some cars are incredibly quick, but may not be able to stand up to repeated abuse lap after lap. I think the STI and in particular this S209 is one of those cars which can be thrashed endlessly without overheating, chewing up too much brake pad, or killing it's tires before the day is done. The reason I love my track Miata so much is because it's bulletproof, even driven at 9-10/10ths. All I've had to do is change oil at regular intervals and take a quick peek of the pads. Even running it for 60 minutes on track, the already used Hoosier A7's looked great and could do at least a few sessions more. That's performance.
Yes Agreed, I would Love a Crosstrek STI. Even an old school 02 WRX motor and turbo would just make it so much more fun. Huge market for Turbo versions this non 2.5 Non turbo is just lame. But who knows their real reason.
Simply an AMAZING car! That car is an INSTANT collectible for anyone fortunate to buy one. WOW! Great job with the review and the background on the car. So many people complain that this car does not have gold rims to harken back to the WRX rally car they miss the point you called out that this car is an homage to the Nurburgring 24 racing development team. Well done. BTW the fact that we live in a time where we get this Subaru S209 AND the Honda Type R here in the US is not lost on me.
Idk about his info, almost everything he said before it was incorrect, you actually can have a 22b now the WRX STI isn't just a mass produced of the special real sti cars etc
Amazing review! Thank you for reviewing the S209. It still feels surreal that Subaru brought the S series stateside (i wish i could have one). I have alot of respect for the folks at STI for still making the S series.
Very glad you mentioned the seats as I had an STI Limited and while the Recaro seats in my Type RA are more comfortable in straight line driving, the STI seats are much superior for side bolster support when even slightly aggressive turning. That surprised me as I assumed the Recaro seats would be superior, but they are not so far. As far as that 'expected' price for the S209, that's why I didn't wait and found a good deal on a new Type RA. $60K is flat out lunacy.
Great to finally see a driving review of this beast! Agreed on the seats though, the Recaro upgrade for my 19 was too pricey for just a seat back improvement....so I passed.
Bought myself a 2015 sti all those years ago (current powerlevel 400whp) and it's by far my most favorite car I've owned. I pretty hyped for the future of this platform.
Very informative video. The S209 is an AMAZING machine. What a wonderful time to be alive when we have great vehicles like this available here in the US.
I have a '19 STI Ltd, and it's my 5th STI, but when I watching the vid, I was perplexed about the paddle shifters...then you said it - IC! They did this in my 06 STI as well. Very useful in Vegas weather.
Looks kind of neat I guess but that’s about as far as my interest goes. I don’t even want to know how much they will charge for it. Thanks for the review of it though. Interesting.
@@bryanvilla9968 got my STi and I'm making the same amount of torque/power on full stock. Not much of a difference except for a few things that gives a better exterior look but also a much better functional spoiler, rather than the wing on the sti. Also forgot it's wider but that can also be achieved with a bit of modification with a regular sti, also the differences stated in the video. You can make the S209, if not a better STi for the same price 👍. Which is what I like about Subarus, achievable through regular means. But it also makes more boost and probably better internals.
@@jkljkl218 I totally believe you can make the same amount as the s209 full stock with just a tune. I'm just saying that Out the factory the S209 has a big difference then the 2019 sti out the factory
I have 2017 STI and trade in for 2019 STI can complain it’s more refine than the 2017. I think one of best STI so far that being said I also own 2004 STI.
.4 seconds slower than the regular sti isn't much when the top and mid end is much more capable than stock. As stated in the video, the S209 is mainly made for track, not a 0-60/100 or 120/200 daily. Either that or as a collectible.
Subaru WRX has really been lagging behind until 2018 or even 2015+ but they seemed to ironed most the problems out with the 2018 and newer. The FA engine is amazing. Just hope the valves don’t get to junked up.
Selling my type RA 38/500 about 4,200 miles on it. What better place than here. Paid off, title in hand, garaged, non smoker, kicker audio upgrade, AWE touring edition exhaust installed, IAG street AOS, never had an AP married to it, have all stock parts wrapped and in the attic. complete car with wheels and glass treated with u.k ceramic 2.0.
My favorite feature is the lack of gaudy red interior accents minus the dash trim. The dash trim can easily be vinyl wrapped. The red interior highlights and the ringland problems keep from considering standard STI. Too bad this one costs too much and will be unobtainable for us average folk.
For the way the S209 drives. This is the best 65k car out there by FAR! Sincerely a now S209 owner, SUPER car handling. 10/10. I recommend adding power... you’ll have a super car with the speed/handling combo I’ve owned 4 cars in last year, hellcat, jeep, M4. My S209 isn’t going anywhere! 😈. Thanks STI!
I’m sorry but for that price you can get an 18 M3 competition with over 120 more hrs power and bang for you’re buck. I’ve had 4 STI’s and honestly it’s not worth that price tag.
Flat 6 is gone and probably won't pass emissions also it wouldn't sound the same as other Subaru's with uel headers bcuz I'm pretty sure it's a 4 cylinder thing
Here in the future of 2022, sorry to break it to you guys but they have stopped production on the sti until further notice if and when it does come back stateside, it will be in the form of a battery pack.
What's with all the poor people and their complaining about the price? If you can't afford it work a second job or just let people who can afford it buy one in peace.
Great video! I'd love to get this or the 2020 series white... I had a 2007 limited edition sti #059/800... It was awesome and was wingless, had black brembo brakes, and heated leather seats. It was Urban Gray Metallic... It had great resale value and I miss it.
Driving Sports TV: The brakes are not at all similiar to the standard STi, they are 6 pots and together with the dedicated pads are amazing, exactly the same fitted in my beautiful yellow Impreza STi spec c Type RA-R!! is this engine 2.4/ 2.5? What a shame the red line does not go up to 8.200 as the previous ej20!!
It's great seeing the updated (post-2014) WRX/STI body style get all beefed up and serious like this, it's the functional vents, stiffer chassis, and a list of other things that really does it for me with this beautiful USDM release. It's just so goddamn track ready! I myself have a '14 wrx hatch, and I love it, and it's EJ delivers, even in it's stock form, with my recent upgrades (rally-ready skid plate, mud-flaps, etc) having nothing to do with power however, I'm still happy with it's pep for now. Anyway's, what I meant to say was that I've been drooling over this S209 for months now, it appears to have been built very purposefully. I read about the S209 in one of Super Streets most recent prints, The JDM Issue (vol.23, no.07), and yes - it would appear it is most definitely a "stronger overall package", as was published in that SS article. I can't wait to see what else Subaru's performance division has up their sleeve. By the way, is that a Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 on your t-shirt starting at 5:35? If not, which Escort might it be? I mean, it's got the iconic double wing so it has definitely got to be one of those bad-ass rally Escorts. Either way, nice shirt man, and what's more? Great video, you guys kill it.
Comment from the future! Yes, STI can bring in anything they want! And as of 2022, that means no more STIs. At all. You were right about the "massive shift" - just wrong about the direction ;)
They went through the process of getting certifications for import. (EPA, etc.) America is the largest market for WRX and STI models and it made sense for them to do it now to capitalize on that popularity. I believe the Japanese home market has been in decline in the past decade.
Used Porsche 911 carrara with some warrenty still left on it..... or a used audi ttrs.... With some warrenty still on it aswell. So yea I love it but this car should be for 40k. Not 60 or whatever markup dealerships are selling it at. I have an 04 WRX STI
If i have 65+K to throw around for sure it wouldn't be a S209 thats only if the dealer is not gonna put any mark up on it. I can see dealer gonna be asking 80K-90K sell price on this thing.
Anti capitalist pig , do you realise how much profit government takes from small and medium business owners that own the fk dealerships half your profit , some states add taxes on the car that's government greed
Anti capitalist pig , do you realise how much profit government takes from small and medium business owners that own the fk dealerships half your profit , some states add taxes on the car that's government greed
Ryan you said the changes to power and everything else are the first time Subaru was able to do that for the US market? Did you already forget they did ALL of that for the Type RA, a car which you did review? Are you reading a script Subaru provided you or something when you give your overview of the changes? Just saying, I own a Type RA. the car routinely pushes 18 lbs of boost stock with no changes to the tuning and definitely puts down much more than the advertised 310bhp. It does not have those additional chassis mods but all of them can be bought and added to the car from your local Subaru dealer once this car hits dealer lots. which I plan to do for an OEM plus build. It is about time they finally started adding a more comprehensive selection of STI/OEM upgrade options. Looking forward to taking my Type RA to the next level and its nice to have an OEM option for better brake pads for track days.
So the S208 is currently selling for 68K...in Japan because that's the only place I can find that has one for sale and they made 450 of those. So, now you have an upgraded S209 of which they are only making 209 and only selling in the US, which has never had an "S" series made available to buy. You can bet your investment dollar it's worth 65K but what do I know I only have two lambo's in the garage.
Hi question regarding the S209 STI in the US does it get the faster 11:1 ratio rack like in japan or is it a watered down version with the 13:1 normal rack?
At what point does the STi reach diminishing returns? The S209 doesn't seem $20k better than the WRX STi of today. Even the STi of today seems a bit costly compared to the competition - as is. I'm not sure what they will price it at, but I'm sure it will be asinine for what you're actually getting.
This car was very good and can only remain as a legend in history. Nowadays, even S209's performance is so inadequate comparing to all of its competitors. It gets so out-performed. The last things we need are new stickers, new wing and new vents. We need a STi to combat these latest cars: TTRS, RS3, and A-45.
If anyone noticed there is a paddle shifter behind the wheel throughout the video?? If yes, he has been shifting manually and what are the paddle shifter for??
Best WRX STi ever was the Cosworth CS400 in UK market. That is a step above the S-series STi's. S-series still obv step up above standard STi's though. CS400 is Cosworth but I still refer to it as best factory built "WRX STi".
Lol, but the CTR beat the Focus RS which has 350hp and AWD and its the second fastest hatchback around the Nürburgring. However i would definitely love to see a track battle between the S209 and CTR.
I’m gonna guess mid-$50K range, but nevermind that...dealership mark-up will add another $20K for those buyers who will pay anything for exclusivity. Same thing happened when the Civic Type R FK8 came to the states.
Not exaggerate. Never heard of it in Europe and I know a lot of subaru drivers. Maybe with tuning, but that is your own risk. A Tesla falls apart after 2 years and they talk about it in Europe :-)
Our boy has a 97' Impreza WRX, JDM car, and that unit kicks ass with only 276hp! [stock] This one looks good, has power, but the price would be $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
I have a 2017 which I absolutely love, and bought used this past year. But frankly, the S209 is what the base STI already should be for its price point. Subaru made a lot of improvements for 2019, but IMO it’s way overpriced compared to what competitors are offering.
Driving Sports TV I’m new to the STI, but I’ve seen a trend that every limited edition that comes out, the next model year comes out with the upgrades. I like it. It’s like Ford’s mustang, it evolves with every year.
That’s really only happened (recently, at least) with the RA’s revised pistons and +5 HP moving over to the 2019. Hopefully the next gen in 2021 gets some upgraded handling from the S209. It’s not bad as it is now, but it’s getting dated. (Although, the next generation will be on the global platform, which is a stiffer base chassis than what’s used now.) Hopefully a new engine comes with it; the EJ257 is just too old and has suffered from reliability problems through its lifetime.
@@billybobbobson5346 still too much for what it's delivering. You could buy a focus RS for cheaper and be better in every aspect. Or buy a used GTR and make this car owner look stupid. FYI I am a subaru tech, so don't come at me with your dealership nonsense
For 65K, I think I would lean more towards a base C8 with 490HP or a Camaro ZL1 with 650HP. There are a lot of choices in the 60K range that provide more performance for the money.
I wonder what I could do with my 2019 WRX performance package premium with an extra 30k. I'm sure it would be more whp with the exact same reliability. Only thing that worries me is the rods, but they can reliably handle up to 380hp and 390ft-lbs tq.
@@drivingsports Wow that's amazing, I'm sure with all the upgraded suspension components and the power split 40/60 front and rear, it's totally worth the price, but those dealer markups will surely affect the value, although it is a more rare vehicle. Not a big fan of the wing in pictures either.
Pricing announced: $63,995! What do you think? Too much? Could they have charged more?!
64k....ouch 😳. My condolences to anyones account who takes the brunt of that. 🏳️
Final spec sheet for the S209 doesn’t list forged pistons or rods for the engine. What’s going on there?
Mark Moseley they said in testing there was a long-term reliability issue that popped up after the announcement, so they instead went with the non-forged design.
Driving Sports TV did they announce this anywhere? I for one was looking forward to the forged pistons and rods in this motor. After now knowing that this S209 will not have that kind of bottom end I don’t think the MSRP of $63,995 is worth it at all. The suspension modifications and slightly bigger turbo is nice and all, but I for one don’t think it pulls that much of a premium over the standard STi or the Type RA.
Mark Moseley I don’t think they released a statement. But it was discussed with us at the press launch.
this is what the standard sti should've been at a 40k price range.
Yeah I know right
100% agree, I'd gladly pay 40k if the STi came like this.
40k is consider cheap. Problems with cars like this and civic type r is 20 yrs old can’t afford it, people who can afford it don’t want it.
@Bimbo Jimbo The STI that "hasn't changed in 15 years" has gone from laptimes of 3:19 (2008) to 3:13.8 (2011) to 3:10.5 (2015) to 3:04.0 (2018) and now the S204 is said to go 2:59(!) at VIR, which is in territory of some very fast company. Something has changed, and I'll let you in on the secret: good chassis development, suspension tuning, powerful brakes, and sticky tires are just as important as horsepower. Not to mention, the STI is an all-day track car while the CTR is a couple-laps-then-overheat track car.
Bimbo Jimbo If you ever get around to tracking your automatic Lexus shitbox at Watkins Glen, I’m there several times a year! Would love to say hi bb 😘
The STI looks lonely without the EVO. Maybe I'm just missing watching these both cars together.
@Teriz Shaw and one day, they will too end the WRX STI series
@@BlizzardWind99 I'm not sure, but i just watched a video where they said the 2020 WRX STI is in its last year of production. I hope the STI division stays.
@@AlphonseJames-FxWorth Nah it's getting a refresh for 2021 model year. The EJ engine is likely done, but the WRX STi is definitely not.
@@DarkSky513 i really hope the designers don't fuck up and give us something looking smooth. It needs to look raw as it can get
It would be cool to see them build a stronger boxer motor that can take a stupid amount of boost.
Some of the best Subaru content on the Internet! Keep it up.
I have a 2019 STI Limited. It's crazy good. Very quick and lots of fun to drive. The speed you can carry into turns is amazing. The grip is the best I've ever experienced. The three LSD's really do the job. I wish the info screen above the infotainment had a battery and oil temp reading. Don't know why they didn't include those. If you cruise at 70mph right around 4k RPM for long enough, you could get 26MPG on a flat highway. If you need to pass someone, sport mode will take you from 70 to 80mph in a blink. You have to watch your speed, it will get away from you and its quiet so you don't realize it. If you always wanted one, it's worth looking into.
Have the same experience with my 2016 Hyperblue sti...
Did you buy new? I am looking to purchase one, how much did you pay?
@@harlemknight120 Hi Kevin. Yes I bought new and I was lucky to get one that only I test drove. I bought it right at the end of Feb 2019 and got them to come down from MSRP $43,000. Bill of sale says I paid $40,930 for Limited with low profile spoiler. I have short shift kit, and the plastic on the back bumper. I love the car and have no plans on ever selling it. It's that type of car. Very soon I will be making a 5000 mile review and posting on my channel.
@@CarStory Ok thanks.
Potential price aside, it looks like a fantastic car. I think in this UA-cam age where every car is reviewed on a track and given a hot lap, the term "performance" gets a bit lost. Some cars are incredibly quick, but may not be able to stand up to repeated abuse lap after lap. I think the STI and in particular this S209 is one of those cars which can be thrashed endlessly without overheating, chewing up too much brake pad, or killing it's tires before the day is done. The reason I love my track Miata so much is because it's bulletproof, even driven at 9-10/10ths. All I've had to do is change oil at regular intervals and take a quick peek of the pads. Even running it for 60 minutes on track, the already used Hoosier A7's looked great and could do at least a few sessions more. That's performance.
If subaru builds an STI crosstrek, they will come.
As a current owner of 2 Crosstreks… yes.
Yes Agreed, I would Love a Crosstrek STI. Even an old school 02 WRX motor and turbo would just make it so much more fun. Huge market for Turbo versions this non 2.5 Non turbo is just lame. But who knows their real reason.
Yes turbo +manual and keep it around 30 grand max..Subaru makes these “special editions” and they end fully loaded at 40k.
Simply an AMAZING car! That car is an INSTANT collectible for anyone fortunate to buy one. WOW! Great job with the review and the background on the car. So many people complain that this car does not have gold rims to harken back to the WRX rally car they miss the point you called out that this car is an homage to the Nurburgring 24 racing development team. Well done. BTW the fact that we live in a time where we get this Subaru S209 AND the Honda Type R here in the US is not lost on me.
Also, fantastic news about STi. Keep the wheels gold!
Idk about his info, almost everything he said before it was incorrect, you actually can have a 22b now the WRX STI isn't just a mass produced of the special real sti cars etc
@@clonecaptian I'll have to wait till New year's Eve when I'm drunk enough to respond to you. Cheers!
Amazing review! Thank you for reviewing the S209. It still feels surreal that Subaru brought the S series stateside (i wish i could have one). I have alot of respect for the folks at STI for still making the S series.
This is what the standard STI should be like for that whopping price of 40k.
That would be absolutely incredible.
Dreaming high business costs in Japan
All those carbon and custom upgrades will easily cost more than 40k
Very glad you mentioned the seats as I had an STI Limited and while the Recaro seats in my Type RA are more comfortable in straight line driving, the STI seats are much superior for side bolster support when even slightly aggressive turning. That surprised me as I assumed the Recaro seats would be superior, but they are not so far.
As far as that 'expected' price for the S209, that's why I didn't wait and found a good deal on a new Type RA. $60K is flat out lunacy.
Great to finally see a driving review of this beast! Agreed on the seats though, the Recaro upgrade for my 19 was too pricey for just a seat back improvement....so I passed.
I love my 2019 base STI!No pricey Recaro seats or push button start
@@daniellocke9534 Same here fellow base model owner. Our car is just soooo good at so many things, i'll gladly overlook the minor things!
34-35k on a base model sti with a short throw is well worth it over the civic type r with a 40k price tag cause stealerships.
The *-* DCCD setting makes the STi a bit looser on the rear, so it corners sharper. *+* gives the car more traction.
Bought myself a 2015 sti all those years ago (current powerlevel 400whp) and it's by far my most favorite car I've owned. I pretty hyped for the future of this platform.
Very informative video. The S209 is an AMAZING machine. What a wonderful time to be alive when we have great vehicles like this available here in the US.
I love the fender flares
I have a '19 STI Ltd, and it's my 5th STI, but when I watching the vid, I was perplexed about the paddle shifters...then you said it - IC! They did this in my 06 STI as well. Very useful in Vegas weather.
Looks kind of neat I guess but that’s about as far as my interest goes. I don’t even want to know how much they will charge for it.
Thanks for the review of it though. Interesting.
2019 handbag sti, comes with all creature comfort accessories and peer approval
I’d like to see a race between the S209 and an STI and see what the difference is.
there's a huge difference bro. 2019 Sti has around 310hp, the s209 has 341hp
Bugeye Bryan 30 horse isn’t much difference... it may put a car length on the STI but that’s it
@@swankgodd3647 That's all you need plus from 290 torque to 330 torque, now you'll definitely feel that.
@@bryanvilla9968 got my STi and I'm making the same amount of torque/power on full stock. Not much of a difference except for a few things that gives a better exterior look but also a much better functional spoiler, rather than the wing on the sti. Also forgot it's wider but that can also be achieved with a bit of modification with a regular sti, also the differences stated in the video.
You can make the S209, if not a better STi for the same price 👍. Which is what I like about Subarus, achievable through regular means.
But it also makes more boost and probably better internals.
@@jkljkl218 I totally believe you can make the same amount as the s209 full stock with just a tune. I'm just saying that Out the factory the S209 has a big difference then the 2019 sti out the factory
Killing us with the shots man
I have 2017 STI and trade in for 2019 STI can complain it’s more refine than the 2017. I think one of best STI so far that being said I also own 2004 STI.
I have both a 2017 and a 2019 and agree with you
@@HmongWis just bought a 2019 WRX do you think theyll also be one of the more sought after WRXs or do you think that only applies to the STi?
@@ThienTran-lc1nx I see. I mean the fa isn't a bad motor. But that subie rumble on that gen of STI is what people will want
jhovene16 I traded in my 16 for a 2002 NSX plus cash of course...lots of cash
Nice!!!! Finally a real review of s209 !!!! Great job guys
Amazing but the price is 80% exclusivity! I limited '18 STI and love it!!!
Did I hear correctly, 0 to 60 in 4.9 seconds? Seems it should be quicker than that.
.4 seconds slower than the regular sti isn't much when the top and mid end is much more capable than stock. As stated in the video, the S209 is mainly made for track, not a 0-60/100 or 120/200 daily. Either that or as a collectible.
pulling 3.7 with dragy in my bone stock RS3 on worn tires
Lmao if you're worried about 0-60 times , you're looking at the wrong car. These cars are made to corner quick
@@reynaldo1209 more expensive than the c8 Corvette and way slower
@@jakeorleans8097 c8 built in USA , in Japan business pay for the social democracy left arsehole Bernie Sanders wants = higher business costs in Japan
How much do you think they'll charge for the S209?
60k
@@brandonkwong07 lol Try 65K. Maybe 60k since they took away our forged internals.......
60k MSRP. Dealership about 80k lol
@@Valendyn depends on how douchey your dealer is.
75k easily ..
Subaru WRX has really been lagging behind until 2018 or even 2015+ but they seemed to ironed most the problems out with the 2018 and newer. The FA engine is amazing. Just hope the valves don’t get to junked up.
Selling my type RA 38/500 about 4,200 miles on it. What better place than here. Paid off, title in hand, garaged, non smoker, kicker audio upgrade, AWE touring edition exhaust installed, IAG street AOS, never had an AP married to it, have all stock parts wrapped and in the attic. complete car with wheels and glass treated with u.k ceramic 2.0.
Too little too late too expensive has been Subaru legacy over the last 30 years. I was a Subaru owner.
so worth it tho.
dont piss your knickers
30? sure?
SquallRinoa89 nope, it is not. Dumb customers enable dealerships crazy car prices.
My favorite feature is the lack of gaudy red interior accents minus the dash trim. The dash trim can easily be vinyl wrapped. The red interior highlights and the ringland problems keep from considering standard STI. Too bad this one costs too much and will be unobtainable for us average folk.
So stoked they are finally bringing a S series to the states. It’s going to be awesome seeing this in person and maybe at the track.
For the way the S209 drives. This is the best 65k car out there by FAR! Sincerely a now S209 owner, SUPER car handling. 10/10. I recommend adding power... you’ll have a super car with the speed/handling combo
I’ve owned 4 cars in last year, hellcat, jeep, M4. My S209 isn’t going anywhere! 😈. Thanks STI!
got my S209 in January 2020🤙
I’m sorry but for that price you can get an 18 M3 competition with over 120 more hrs power and bang for you’re buck. I’ve had 4 STI’s and honestly it’s not worth that price tag.
2016 base m3 you mean
Wat u hate bout Sti?
Hey Subaru, BRING THE LEVORG TO THE STATES!
Amen!
This all day
Is this a possibility now?
I wish but it would flop here. Americans dont buy wagons
@@ciello___8307 the best way around this is to make these vehicle special order only, similar to what Volvo does with their V90 estate.
That looks like an incredible track
No shit, you better get performance for 70k. I’d rather have a 997 911!
I looked at your video talking about the car when it was announced, and boy talk about singing a different tune now.
Flat 6 turbo sti with unequal leangth headers would be a bomb... Someone give Subaru Technica International this info... The supra would be forgotten.
Flat 6 is gone and probably won't pass emissions also it wouldn't sound the same as other Subaru's with uel headers bcuz I'm pretty sure it's a 4 cylinder thing
Here in the future of 2022, sorry to break it to you guys but they have stopped production on the sti until further notice if and when it does come back stateside, it will be in the form of a battery pack.
What's with all the poor people and their complaining about the price? If you can't afford it work a second job or just let people who can afford it buy one in peace.
Correct me if I am wrong... Did they model the gr. 3 and gr. 4 subaru vehicles after the 208 and 209 in Gran Turismo Sport?
Great video! I'd love to get this or the 2020 series white... I had a 2007 limited edition sti #059/800... It was awesome and was wingless, had black brembo brakes, and heated leather seats. It was Urban Gray Metallic... It had great resale value and I miss it.
Waiting for those fender flares for sale available in any store sites.
Maybe just order original parts from the parts department when it comes out, heh
Driving Sports TV: The brakes are not at all similiar to the standard STi, they are 6 pots and together with the dedicated pads are amazing, exactly the same fitted in my beautiful yellow Impreza STi spec c Type RA-R!! is this engine 2.4/ 2.5? What a shame the red line does not go up to 8.200 as the previous ej20!!
It's great seeing the updated (post-2014) WRX/STI body style get all beefed up and serious like this, it's the functional vents, stiffer chassis, and a list of other things that really does it for me with this beautiful USDM release. It's just so goddamn track ready! I myself have a '14 wrx hatch, and I love it, and it's EJ delivers, even in it's stock form, with my recent upgrades (rally-ready skid plate, mud-flaps, etc) having nothing to do with power however, I'm still happy with it's pep for now. Anyway's, what I meant to say was that I've been drooling over this S209 for months now, it appears to have been built very purposefully. I read about the S209 in one of Super Streets most recent prints, The JDM Issue (vol.23, no.07), and yes - it would appear it is most definitely a "stronger overall package", as was published in that SS article. I can't wait to see what else Subaru's performance division has up their sleeve. By the way, is that a Ford Sierra Cosworth RS500 on your t-shirt starting at 5:35? If not, which Escort might it be? I mean, it's got the iconic double wing so it has definitely got to be one of those bad-ass rally Escorts. Either way, nice shirt man, and what's more? Great video, you guys kill it.
Yes, it’s an RS500 shirt from BlipShift. Thanks for watching!
Comment from the future! Yes, STI can bring in anything they want! And as of 2022, that means no more STIs. At all. You were right about the "massive shift" - just wrong about the direction ;)
😭
@@drivingsports Agreed :(
Great video. The sti import biz is exciting!
@drivingsportstv What changed that allowed STI to import models? I like the brief history segment.
They went through the process of getting certifications for import. (EPA, etc.) America is the largest market for WRX and STI models and it made sense for them to do it now to capitalize on that popularity. I believe the Japanese home market has been in decline in the past decade.
Can the haters tell me instead of the base STi, what you can get for this price range, with 300+hp, AWD and manual that seats 5.
I’ll be waiting
Used Porsche 911 carrara with some warrenty still left on it..... or a used audi ttrs.... With some warrenty still on it aswell. So yea I love it but this car should be for 40k. Not 60 or whatever markup dealerships are selling it at.
I have an 04 WRX STI
@MrDjvas Since when did the 911 or TT seat 5???
Evo
@@dashraam1752 Since when can you buy that new? Oh 2014.
@@MrDjvas blame socialism it's expensive to build in Japan = expensive in Usa , elect Bernie you will pay more for American muscle
is it safe to say these ej257 motors are more reliable to make power now unlike the older ej25?
I actually was looking at those Sti “pink” brake pads for my brembo set...try $500+ not including shipping from Japan lmao nty.
😲
Auto Minus is for dry - good road surface such as most tracks, Auto Plus is for wet roads.
If i have 65+K to throw around for sure it wouldn't be a S209 thats only if the dealer is not gonna put any mark up on it. I can see dealer gonna be asking 80K-90K sell price on this thing.
Anti capitalist pig , do you realise how much profit government takes from small and medium business owners that own the fk dealerships half your profit , some states add taxes on the car that's government greed
Anti capitalist pig , do you realise how much profit government takes from small and medium business owners that own the fk dealerships half your profit , some states add taxes on the car that's government greed
Ryan you said the changes to power and everything else are the first time Subaru was able to do that for the US market? Did you already forget they did ALL of that for the Type RA, a car which you did review? Are you reading a script Subaru provided you or something when you give your overview of the changes?
Just saying, I own a Type RA. the car routinely pushes 18 lbs of boost stock with no changes to the tuning and definitely puts down much more than the advertised 310bhp. It does not have those additional chassis mods but all of them can be bought and added to the car from your local Subaru dealer once this car hits dealer lots. which I plan to do for an OEM plus build. It is about time they finally started adding a more comprehensive selection of STI/OEM upgrade options. Looking forward to taking my Type RA to the next level and its nice to have an OEM option for better brake pads for track days.
The S209 has a larger turbo. The Type RA uses the same unit as the standard STI. From a certification perspective that is significant.
Maybe I missed it but what track was that? Looks like NH but could be Palmer MA?
Palmer!
So the S208 is currently selling for 68K...in Japan because that's the only place I can find that has one for sale and they made 450 of those. So, now you have an upgraded S209 of which they are only making 209 and only selling in the US, which has never had an "S" series made available to buy. You can bet your investment dollar it's worth 65K but what do I know I only have two lambo's in the garage.
I could never find out why they stopped making the Impreza in coupe form like the GC8. A modern STI WRX in coupe form would be awesome.
That form isn't selling well internationally, that's the down side of having way too loyal fanbase. Dramatic changes might cause fans to hate you.
I just bought a 2019, and I love everything but the understeer in tight corners. I’m with you. Build a modern 22B two door and I would have it.
I feel it might be priced easily within 53k-60k
Hi question regarding the S209 STI in the US does it get the faster 11:1 ratio rack like in japan or is it a watered down version with the 13:1 normal rack?
It is, unfortunately, a normal rack.
At what point does the STi reach diminishing returns? The S209 doesn't seem $20k better than the WRX STi of today. Even the STi of today seems a bit costly compared to the competition - as is. I'm not sure what they will price it at, but I'm sure it will be asinine for what you're actually getting.
This should be the regular Sti. Thi should’ve been more extreme as far as power. Should’ve been pushed to around 450-500.
Not familiar with intercooler spray. How much does it cost / how often do you use it / how big of a difference does it make?
Brings IC temperatures down. You’d normally use it before a long straight where a colder air charge will benefit most.
This car was very good and can only remain as a legend in history. Nowadays, even S209's performance is so inadequate comparing to all of its competitors. It gets so out-performed. The last things we need are new stickers, new wing and new vents. We need a STi to combat these latest cars: TTRS, RS3, and A-45.
I'm here because my local Subie dealer has one of only 80 white ones. It has Recaro seats. $71K.
If anyone noticed there is a paddle shifter behind the wheel throughout the video??
If yes, he has been shifting manually and what are the paddle shifter for??
At 13:08 he states that it's for intercooler sprays
My guess...msrp $64.995 but dealers will sell it with a $10k mark up.
They sure better hope not. This car shouldn't be more than $60,000
It's so beautiful!
Can someone explain to me why subaru is still using a top mount intercooler? She heat soak’s so bad.
Best WRX STi ever was the Cosworth CS400 in UK market. That is a step above the S-series STi's. S-series still obv step up above standard STi's though. CS400 is Cosworth but I still refer to it as best factory built "WRX STi".
so I saw the price of this model recently & I'm shocked. Which one do u guys think is better, this, or a used GT-R?
I’d be concerned about any track-going car in the used market.
Holy Christ, for that much money, I'll go Porsche.
That's WTF IM SAYIN. like really 60k?????? I'd rather get a used 911 carrara with some warrenty left on it.
Or an Audi RS3 😎
So true... what are they thinking?
or a z06....just saying
lindb34 thats the price they’ve been selling all the S series at and they always sell.
Would love to see a Civic Type R on a track with the S209
Yes! This is interesting.
I think the s209 would be quicker. It has the power advantage, and also now has the aero and suspension to beat the ctr
the type R is only 2WD and cant do a lap as quick as an AWD
Lol, but the CTR beat the Focus RS which has 350hp and AWD and its the second fastest hatchback around the Nürburgring. However i would definitely love to see a track battle between the S209 and CTR.
S209 would still probably lose to the FK8 CTR. FK8 is just a more modern superior chassis.
This is....pure love.
You're the best! Welcome to my homestate hopefully you had a good time here! Like where STI is going with this.
Beautiful country out there. Really loved it!
Where is this track? & what states? :)
Looks amazing! I wanna race it! 🤔😂
What track was this? I was thinking you were goint to Lime Rock, but that doesn't look anything like it.
Palmer Motorsport Park in MA.
Only 209?!! ..if I was lucky enough to buy an S209, I would want 209/209
I’m gonna guess mid-$50K range, but nevermind that...dealership mark-up will add another $20K for those buyers who will pay anything for exclusivity. Same thing happened when the Civic Type R FK8 came to the states.
How would this do against a zl1 1le camaro? On track ?
What track were you driving on?
I may have missed it but are the paddles for?
Never mind it’s for the intercooler spray. Got it
My 16 year old sti spec c is 19.5 psi of boost from the factory.
Champagne supernova, Nice song.
The car looks fantastic. Why is that it has paddle shifters if it is manual?
The paddles control the intercooler sprayer. It's mentioned later in the video.
@@drivingsports Ahhhhhh ok. I actually did not see it all the way to the end.
Thanks a lot. I will watch the video again.
Tosta Details shame on you
@@gustavopaulette3496 why you say such thing?
why does it have paddles if its a manual?
The paddle aren’t for shifting, they’re used to activate the inter cooler spray
Can you make legacy with rear steering
You're still going to deal with ringland failure down the track.
Not exaggerate.
Never heard of it in Europe and I know a lot of subaru drivers.
Maybe with tuning, but that is your own risk.
A Tesla falls apart after 2 years and they talk about it in Europe :-)
107, 335 miles on my 15 sti. It is my daily. Only problem I had was my power steering had a leak.
@@quickeasy910 Do not sell, otherwise you will regret it.
Nice car!
Our boy has a 97' Impreza WRX, JDM car, and that unit kicks ass with only 276hp! [stock] This one looks good, has power, but the price would be $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Does the ej25 still run a bearing at 190km?
Hello from a fellow masshole subie owner. Wish I can see this thing on the streets
What are the paddles for ? Auto rev match?
Intercooler spray. Covered later in the video.
Driving Sports TV ah ok i must’ve missed it be said 👍🏻
I have a 2017 which I absolutely love, and bought used this past year. But frankly, the S209 is what the base STI already should be for its price point. Subaru made a lot of improvements for 2019, but IMO it’s way overpriced compared to what competitors are offering.
I wouldn't be surprised if some of these advances make their way into the next generation STI.
Driving Sports TV 2021, the base STI will make S209 numbers, without the carbon fiber bits.
bmwmdude my 2007 Legacy GT made more HP. I’m more referring to the handling updates making their way into the next generation car.
Driving Sports TV I’m new to the STI, but I’ve seen a trend that every limited edition that comes out, the next model year comes out with the upgrades. I like it. It’s like Ford’s mustang, it evolves with every year.
That’s really only happened (recently, at least) with the RA’s revised pistons and +5 HP moving over to the 2019. Hopefully the next gen in 2021 gets some upgraded handling from the S209. It’s not bad as it is now, but it’s getting dated. (Although, the next generation will be on the global platform, which is a stiffer base chassis than what’s used now.) Hopefully a new engine comes with it; the EJ257 is just too old and has suffered from reliability problems through its lifetime.
Subaru should price around 45-47K, but they’ll probably price around 55-57K, which is too much for this vehicle.
Jim Judson yea, I’m sure you know more about that then successful Subaru. FYI, our dealership sold it before it even arrived. 🤷🏼♂️
@@billybobbobson5346 still too much for what it's delivering. You could buy a focus RS for cheaper and be better in every aspect. Or buy a used GTR and make this car owner look stupid. FYI I am a subaru tech, so don't come at me with your dealership nonsense
@@davidbranch9584 a used GTR on this price point may need new transmission sooner or later. which throws the expenses further.
It's going to be 65k BTW
For 65K, I think I would lean more towards a base C8 with 490HP or a Camaro ZL1 with 650HP. There are a lot of choices in the 60K range that provide more performance for the money.
Are those paddle shifters too?
They control the IC Sprayer
What is the paddle shifter for?
6:40 Why the fuck does it have paddles under the steering wheel when it's manual?
what are the paddles on the side of the steering wheel?
intercooler sprayer
Is it me or does the steering wheel seem to have paddle shifters on there?
They control water injection. 💦
I wonder what I could do with my 2019 WRX performance package premium with an extra 30k. I'm sure it would be more whp with the exact same reliability. Only thing that worries me is the rods, but they can reliably handle up to 380hp and 390ft-lbs tq.
The S209 HKS turbo costs more than $5k by itself. I have a friend with a Type RA that is looking to add all the S209 bits.
@@drivingsports Wow that's amazing, I'm sure with all the upgraded suspension components and the power split 40/60 front and rear, it's totally worth the price, but those dealer markups will surely affect the value, although it is a more rare vehicle. Not a big fan of the wing in pictures either.
@@cmillan14 it's much cheaper to tune are car in USA than in Japan , business aren't paying high taxes for social democracy