Subaru reveals lighter, more powerful STI Type RA

Subaru has released pictures and full information of a new performance flagship based on the current Impreza WRX STI.

Thought to be a high-performance send-off for the current WRX family, the new Impreza STI Type RA (Record Attempt) takes its name from the 1989 world record it set with the old Subaru Liberty that drove more than 100,000km over 18 days at an average speed of 222km/h.

Confirmed for the US and on sale there in 2018, the WRX STI RA is powered by a 231kW turbocharged 2.5-litre flat-four cylinder that comes with stronger pistons, a revised cold air intake, high-flow exhaust, new ECU and a short ratio six-speed manual gearbox.

The US-only WRX STI RA also comes with some significant weight-saving measures that include a carbon-fibre roof panel, lightweight 19-inch alloys and a delete-option spare wheel.

To help cope with the improved performance, there's a completely rethought aero package that includes a big front splitter and a huge carbon-fibre rear wing.

Chassis revisions include Bilstein dampers all-round, inverted struts up-front and double wishbone suspension at the rear.

Brakes, meanwhile, are by Brembo and promise shorter stopping distances and better resistance to sustained abuse.

Inside, there's new Recaro seats and a suede-wrapped steering wheel.

Pricing has yet to be announced but Subaru USA has announced it will import just 500 units when the faster, more hard-core WRX STI RA arrives early next year.

There's no word yet if the STI flagship is destined for Australia.