2024 Subaru STI Sport AWD inbound

Subaru Australia has announced a new sporty Forester variant for its local line-up, but before you get excited, no it doesn’t have a turbocharger.

Rather than increasing straight-line speed, the 2024 Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD is said to offer “sharper” handling than its stablemates courtesy of some STI-tuned dampers, with the enhanced dynamics hinted at by a raft of aggressive design cues.

These cosmetic enhancements comprise a black radiator grille, fog light surrounds, roof rails, exterior badging, mirror caps, trim insert and under guards, dark grey 18-inch alloys and an STI logo on the tailgate.

The cabin gets an overhaul too with black and burgundy Nappa leather seat upholstery, door trim, centre console and instrument panel, an STI-branded instrument cluster and red stitching.

Based on the existing Forester 2.5i-S, the STI Sport AWD commands a mild $1500 premium over its donor vehicle with a list price of $48,640 plus on-road costs (vs $47,140).

Shared equipment between the two includes an 8.0-inch infotainment system housing sat-nav, smartphone mirroring and DAB digital radio, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, dual-zone climate control, LED exterior lighting, heated and power-adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver and two X-Mode off-road drive programs.

No changes have been made to the 2.5-litre flat four-cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet which continues to output 136kW/239Nm and drive all four wheels via a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

“With the STI Sport AWD special edition, we’re excited to offer a sportier option that enhances the driving experience while maintaining the Forester’s renowned versatility and reliability,” Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said.

“This limited-run edition offers a fresh take on a familiar favourite, providing a special opportunity for consumers to enjoy something truly distinctive.”

The STI Sport will be available in Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Magnetite Grey Metallic, Crystal Black Silica and Offshore Blue Metallic but an exact allocation size is yet to be confirmed.

How much does the 2024 Subaru Forester cost?
2.5i AWD – $38,690
2.5i-L AWD – $41,090
2.5i Premium AWD – $43,890
2.0 Hybrid L AWD – $44,090
2.5i Sport AWD – $45,640
2.5i-S AWD – $47,140
2.5i STI Sport AWD – $48,640
2.0 Hybrid S AWD – $50,140
* Prices exclude on-road costs

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