Subaru Japan launches WRX S4 ts

Subaru Japan has revealed that it will commemorate its class victory at the Nurburgring 24 Hours held last May by creating a better handling WRX.

The special-edition, called the WRX S4 ts, is the work of STI -- Subaru's high-performance division.

Differing from the standard WRX, engineers have given the WRX S4 ts the suspension and chassis upgrades from the 2015 S207 special-edition.

The upgrades include introducing a front strut brace, rear sub-frame support and extra multi-links for the rear suspension. Adjustable dampers, bigger front four-piston Brembo brakes and larger 19-inch wheels are also part of the considerable chassis updates.

Sadly, the special-edition misses out on the S207's 245kW engine.

Instead, it gets the standard Japanese-spec 224kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbocharged flat four-cylinder engine without any more power.

The only modifications to the powertrain is a new cold air intake system and a freer-flowing exhaust.

Bizarrely, the commemorative special-edition is only available on the CVT version of the WRX.

Externally, the special edition gains a pinstripe mesh grille, front splitter, black roof antenna and a subtle red pinstripe rear bumper.

Inside, the WRX gets STI-spec Recaro sport seats and an interior with plenty of 'STI' logs and even a 'ts Limited Edition' plaque.

For buyers who desire more visual clout from their celebration model a further NBR Challenge Package can be ordered that adds black BBS 19-inch wheels, a carbon-fibre rear spoiler and an Alcantara-wrapped steering wheel.

The special-edition WRX S4 ts is priced in Japan from around $63,000, but to get the NBR Challenge Package will cost Japanese buyers an additional $3000.

Sadly, the tribute to the Nurburgring endurance class win will not be imported Down Under.