While the big story of the day for Subaru is no doubt the Japanese domestic market (JDM) launch of the new Forester SUV, the carmaker also released a pair of special edition Legacy models prepared by none other than its famed in-house tuner, STI.
The two Legacy models are the B4 saloon and Touring Wagon “2.5i EyeSight tS”, of which only 300 examples will be produced and offered to the public in Japan from now through to March 12, 2013.
Like other Subaru vehicles bearing the “tS” moniker, the STI upgrades on the limited run Legacy sedan and estate are focused on the styling and handling aspects of the car, while retaining the stock 2.5-liter boxer engine that delivers the same 171hp (173PS or 127kW) and 235Nm of peak torque as it does on the regular models.
The STI touch on the outside brings a roof (Touring Wagon) or a deck-lid (B4) spoiler, front and rear aprons, STI and “tS” badges, honeycomb upper and lower grilles, chrome exhaust tips and 18-inch multispoke alloy wheels.
Inside, Subaru’s STI division has decorated the cabin with titanium gray color carbon trims, part-leather black seats and console covers with red-stitching, door sill plates, black leather sports steering wheel with red stiches, a “Nick Toro” gear lever, a revised instrument panel with a 260km/h (162mph) speedometer, and an STI start-button.
The performance upgrades encompass a number of new suspension components such as sport coil springs, shock absorbers, strut bars and front lower arms, and a sports exhaust system.
In Japan, the new STI-prepped Legacy starts from 3,528,000 Yen (about US$45,100 or €35,500 at today’s rates).
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