The special edition looks like a warm hatch but retains the standard 2.0-liter engine under the hood
Despite having a rich heritage in rallying, the current, sixth-generation Subaru Impreza never got a proper performance-focused version. Still, Subaru Australia just launched a special edition that spices up the design of the hatchback using STI accessories.
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The Impreza S-Edition looks similar to the STI Performance Parts prototype shown at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2023. Its most eye-catching feature is a set of 18-inch black Enkei alloy wheels, each accented with a red STI emblem on the hubcaps.
Design Tweaks with STI Flair
The upgraded wheels are paired with a handful of aerodynamic elements, including a front splitter, rear skirt, and roof spoiler, all finished in glossy black. A new sports grille with a unique mesh pattern further distinguishes the S-Edition. Buyers are limited to three paint choices: Pure Red, Crystal Black Silica, or Crystal White Pearl.
Subaru has also added an STI-branded start button and a matching shift knob to make the cabin of the Impreza a little bit more interesting. It is worth noting that all of the aforementioned upgrades were already available as options in the Australian configurator, but this is the first time they were bundled together in a special edition.
Performance Stays the Same
Despite Subaru’s claim that the Impreza S-Edition “channels racing spirit from grille to tail,” there are no mechanical upgrades beneath the surface. The car is mechanically identical to the Impreza AWD 2.0S, powered by a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine delivering 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS). Unlike buyers in the US, Australians miss out on the more powerful 2.5-liter boxer option.
Power is sent through a Lineartronic CVT to Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system. The suspension and brakes remain unchanged, though owners can opt for a flexible tower bar to add a touch more rigidity.
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Subaru will only offer 100 units of the Impreza S-Edition in Australia. According to CarExpert, the special edition is priced at AU$ 42,490 (US$ 27,700) before on-road costs, which makes it AU$ 3,500 (US$ 2,300) more expensive than the Impreza AWD 2.0S despite adding around AU$ 6,500 (US$ 4,200) of extra kit.
Besides the Impreza, the company has also shown a special edition of its crossover sibling. The Crosstrek Onyx is fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels finished in dark metallic, and a black rear spoiler. This model is priced at AU$ 43,890 ($28,500), making it AU$ 1,500 (US$ 975) pricier than the regular Crosstrek AWD 2.0S trim it is based on.
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Thanos Pappas, a product design engineer by trade, has been wading through automotive journalism for… Read full bio

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