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Subaru WRX STI

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Subaru WRX STI: Subaru Tecnica International WRX. Higher power, stiffer chassis, focused performance halo. The 22B is the apex
Photo: Motor Verso / Wikimedia Commons · CC BY 2.0

Subaru Tecnica International WRX. Higher power, stiffer chassis, focused performance halo. The 22B is the apex.

The Subaru WRX STI (Subaru Tecnica International WRX) is the higher-performance variant of the WRX. The STI designation has been applied to performance variants of the Impreza WRX since the mid-1990s. STI variants typically have more aggressive engine tuning, stiffer chassis, larger brakes, and more aggressive aerodynamics than equivalent WRXs. The WRX STI lineage spans multiple generations: GC8 STI Type R variants (1995-2000), GD STI (2004-2007 in North America), GR/GE STI (2008-2014), and VA STI (2015-2021). The 2021 model year ended STI production globally; no successor has been confirmed. The 22B STI (1998) is the most legendary STI variant. Built to commemorate Subaru three consecutive WRC wins (1995, 1996, 1997), the 22B was a homologation special with a wide-body two-door sedan, 280 horsepower (likely more) from a tuned EJ20 engine, and limited production of 400 units (all originally JDM). The 22B STI has appreciated dramatically; clean examples now sell for over $300,000 at auction. The S204, S205, S206, and various other JDM-only S-series STIs are particularly desirable. These were limited-production, performance-focused variants typically with revised tuning, exclusive trim, and strict production volumes (a few hundred to a few thousand units depending on variant). On WhipJury, WRX STI submissions are active across all generations. The most common are GD STI (2004-2007 in North America), GR/GE STI (2008-2014), and VA STI (2015-2021). Modified examples with extensive engine and chassis upgrades are common.

Top Subaru WRX STI examples on WhipJury

2006 Subaru WRX STI
2006 Subaru WRX STI#1
Whip Score: 1209

STI generations

GC8 STI Type R (1995-2000). Original WRX STI. Won three WRC championships. JDM-only initially.

GD STI (2004-2007 in North America). First STI sold in North America.

GR/GE STI (2008-2014). Hatchback variant introduced. EJ257 engine.

VA STI (2015-2021). Last STI. EJ257 still under the hood. Production ended 2021.

WRX STI on WhipJury

STI submissions are highly active. Modified examples with engine tuning and chassis upgrades are common. Stock examples in clean condition reliably top voting. The 22B and S-series JDM variants are unicorns when they appear.

Frequently asked questions about Subaru WRX STI

What is the difference between WRX and STI?
STI variants typically have: more power (typically 50-70 horsepower more), stiffer suspension and chassis, larger brakes, more aggressive aerodynamics, and unique trim. STI cars are the focused track and rally variants; WRXs are the more accessible street variants. STI was discontinued in 2021; WRX continues.
Why is the 22B so valuable?
Multiple factors. Limited production (only 400 units globally). Wide-body two-door sedan body unique to this variant. Three consecutive WRC championship reference (1995-1997). Tuned EJ20 engine. The combination has made the 22B one of the most desirable JDM cars; clean examples now sell for $300,000-$500,000+ at auction.
Are STIs reliable?
Mixed depending on year. Earlier STIs (mid-2000s) had documented EJ255 ringland failure issues under aggressive driving and tuning. Later EJ257 STIs had fewer issues. Modified STIs require careful tuning and maintenance to avoid engine damage. Stock STIs with proper maintenance are reasonably reliable.
How much does an STI cost?
Used pricing: project STIs $10,000-$20,000, driver-quality $20,000-$40,000, clean low-mile $40,000-$60,000+. JDM STI variants (S204, S205, S206) command significant premiums. The 22B is in a different category, with prices over $300,000.
Why was the STI discontinued?
Subaru announced the WRX STI discontinuation citing the difficulty of meeting modern emissions and crash safety regulations with the EJ-series boxer engine, plus declining sales of high-performance Subaru variants globally. The WRX continues but without the STI badge. A future STI revival has been hinted at but not confirmed.

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