Subaru Introduces Two New Top-Spec Impreza STIs with 20 Extra Horsepower

Subaru has whipped up two more top flight versions of its Impreza STI for 2012. Based on the the new STI sedan, the Subaru Impreza WRX STI S206 partially commemorates Subaru class win at the 2011 24 Hours of the Nuerburgring. The car gets additional power thanks to significant upgrades to the engine internals, has a better suspension and subtly more sporty exterior.

There are two versions of the STI S206, the standard car and the NBR Challenge Package. The STI S206 benefits from a lot of extra performance kit. The engine has been balanced and crankshaft lightened to quicken revving. The ECU has been retuned, and the S206 gets a freer flowing cat-back exhaust. All of the these tweaks add 20hp to the standard STI bringing it up to 320hp. Subaru also says that throttle response has been improved in the low and mid rev ranges. The S206 gets an updated Bilstein suspension with STI springs. It rides on 19in BBS wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport Tires. On the outside, the S206 has a different front bumper and side garnishes. The interior gets Recaro seats and a leather wrapped steering wheel.

The NBR Challenge Package is identical to the regular STI S206 with the exception of a carbon fiber roof, adjustable, carbon fiber spoiler, black 19in BBS wheels and NBR Challenge logo on the back.

Unfortunately, Subaru is not planning to sell the S206 out of Japan, yet. It is making just 300 S206s with 100 of those NBR Challenge versions. All of the NBR Challenge cars have already been reserved. The STI S206 will be available in the late Spring of 2012.