- The old Subaru Forester continues in Australia with a fresh, new limited edition release.
- The Forester STI Sport comes with a tuned suspension and a few other enhancements.
- The crossover sticks with the stock 2.5-liter engine, with no additional power upgrades.
The previous generation Subaru Forester soldiers on in markets outside North America, where Subaru is rolling out special editions to keep buyers hooked. A prime example is the new Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD, offered in limited numbers exclusively for the Australian market.
Originally introduced in Japan in 2022 as the sportiest trim in the Forester lineup, the STI Sport now makes its way Down Under, packed with STI upgrades and a host of unique features. However, there’s a notable difference between this Australian model and the Japanese version that enthusiasts should take note of.
More: Subaru Updates Old Forester In Japan, Throws In New STI Edition
Instead of the turbocharged 1.8-liter engine found in its JDM-spec counterpart, the Australian version of the Forester STI Sport gets stuck with the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine. This setup churns out 182 hp (136 kW / 185 PS) and 239 Nm (176 lb-ft) of torque—the same uninspired output as the rest of the local Forester lineup.
That means the Australian STI Sport squeezes out 7 hp (6 kW / 8 PS) more than the Japanese model but falls short with 61 Nm (45 lb-ft) less torque. Regardless, both versions send power to all four wheels through a CVT gearbox, paired with Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD system.
The Forester STI Sport is actually based on the flagship 2.5i-S trim. While it doesn’t bring any power upgrades, it does come with STI-tuned front and rear dampers, which are claimed to sharpen up the SUV’s driving dynamics—though we’ll see if that’s enough to justify the badge.
AU-Spec Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD
Visually, the special edition is almost a carbon copy of the JDM-spec STI Sport trim, except for the missing STI emblem on the front grille. Key details include the red STI badge on the tailgate, 18-inch Dark Grey alloy wheels, and blacked-out accents on the grille, mirror caps, side and rear garnish, skid plates, and roof rails.
Inside, there is a combination of Black and Bordeaux trim with Nappa leather upholstery and red stitching. The STI-branded instrument cluster is another cool touch keeping the driver engaged in the sporty spirit. Standard equipment includes an 8-inch infotainment, heated front seats, a sunroof, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, and a comprehensive list of ADAS.
Subaru Australia has hyped up the “strictly limited” production run, boldly claiming it will be a “collector’s item.” On the official site, the driveaway price for the Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD is AU$ 53,812 (US$ 36,243), making it AU$ 1,567 (US$ 1,055) pricier than the 2.5i-S trim it builds upon.
The Subaru Forester STI Sport is set to hit Australian dealerships in the coming weeks. As for the next-generation Forester—already on sale in North America—don’t expect to see it Down Under until 2025.
JDM-Spec Subaru Forester STI Sport
