Subaru Levorg STI Sport R Debuts In Japan With The WRX’s Engine

Alongside the WRX S4, Subaru unveiled the updated JDM-spec Levorg range which besides a series of minor model year updates gains an STI Sport R trim level that is powered by the turbocharged 2.4-liter engine of its sporty four-door sibling.

The current generation of the Levorg was unveiled in 2020. The fact that the model is sharing the Subaru Global Platform, several body panels, and the interior with the WRX makes it a fitting choice for the STI badge. However, just like the JDM-Spec WRX S4, the Levorg is not a full-blown STI but instead, it is available in the STI Sport R trim level which brings added performance and slightly sportier styling.

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The turbocharged 2.4-liter engine produces 271 hp (202 kW / 275 PS) and 375 Nm (276.6 lb-ft) of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through a CVT transmission with a virtual eight-speed manual mode and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The model is also equipped with electronically controlled dampers and Drive mode select (Comfort, Normal, Sport, Sport+, and Individual).

Mind you, not all STI-badged Levorgs get the WRX engine. Only the STI Sport R trim levels have the 2.4-liter unit, while the STI Sport is fitted with the standard 1.8-liter that powers the rest of the range. This one is also turbocharged and produces the same 174 hp ( 130 kW / 177 PS) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque as in the previous model year, which are sent to all four wheels through a CVT Lineartronic transmission.

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Design-wise the 2022 Subaru Levorg doesn’t really change from what we already knew. All STI grades are visually distinguished by the STI badges on the grille and tailgate, a slightly sportier front splitter with an aluminum-style skid plate, 18-inch aluminum wheels, and slightly larger dual exhaust pipes.

Inside, the high-end trims get leather upholstery, a large 11.6-inch infotainment touchscreen on the center console, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster behind the STI-badged, leather-wrapped steering wheel.

In terms of the model year updates for 2022, the Levorg now has the option of a sunroof, an electronically operated tailgate that can open and close from a switch on the driver’s seat, and the latest EyeSight X ADAS systems available in higher trim levels. It is available in eight different colors including the new Ceramic White, Sapphire Blue Pearl, and Ignition Red.

Pricing for the 2022 Levorg in Japan starts from ¥3,102,000 ($26,892) for the base-spec GT (1.8-liter AWD) and climbs to ¥4,092,000 ($35,475) for the flagship STI Sport EX trim with the same engine. As for the Levorg STI Sport R, this starts from ¥4,389,000 ($38,051) with the range-topping STI Sport R EX selling for ¥4,774,000 ($41,390). For the record, this is only $5 more than the equivalent four-door WRX STI Sport R EX.