Not For You: Subaru Legacy STI S402
Subaru has a tradition of producing limited-edition versions of its hottest models. Unfortunately, it also has a habit of never making these factory-tuned rides available in America. Such is the case with the Legacy STI S402, which officially went on sale in Japan this June.
With 402 units in both wagon and sedan trim, it's doubtful that either model will hang around dealer lots for long. Both versions are powered by a 300bhp, turbocharged, 2.5-liter flat four, with power going to all four wheels through a six-speed manual transmission equipped with Subaru's SI-Drive. The front fenders have been widened by 0.8 of an inch on each side, housing 18-inch BBS wheels with Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires. Bilstein struts suspend the upgraded rolling stock, as six-piston Brembo brakes in front and two-pot calipers in the rear keep the party in check. No special-edition model would be complete without a bit of bling, so Subaru has added all the required badging to the inside and outside, along with new gauges, a Momo steering wheel and an aluminum shift knob.
Rumors&Lies* There's little doubt that Mitsubishi and Subaru are working on hardcore versions of their road-going rally rockets. And the first few details have confirmed our suspicions. The Evolution X MR is expected to debut in Japan next year with an additional 20bhp (up to 305bhp in JDM spec), with a revised ECU that boosts torque throughout the mid-range. Equipped with Mitsu's SST twin-clutch transmission, the MR's zero-to-60mph time is expected to drop well below five seconds and will be distinguished from its lesser siblings by a new front fascia, revised rear wing and bespoke wheels. Subaru will release the Impreza WRX STI Spec C around the same time, but rather than focus its efforts on engine output, it plans to lose around 150 pounds through the use of a lightweight roof, aluminum trunk lid, smaller fuel tank, thinner glass and a compact battery. Although the Evo X MR should make its way to the US, don't hold your breath for the Spec C.
* Infiniti's business plan for the next five years involves more models in more regions throughout the world. So in order to compete with the big boys of the luxury set, Infiniti intends to roll out models to match them point for point. Nissan announced that it would finally bring an Infiniti G37 convertible to market (most likely fitted with a retractable hard top) along with a compact competitor to the BMW 1 Series. However, don't expect a swoopy coupe from Nissan's luxury arm. Infiniti is describing it as a 'mini SUV.' For shame.
* Spy photographers caught a race-ready version of the Lexus LF-A, sporting aggressive aerodynamic body parts and a large wing, running around the Nrburgring. Lexus later confirmed that it would be running a prototype version of the LF-A in the 24 Hours of Nrburgring race this year. Too bad we'll still have to wait past the turn of the decade to see a production model.
* The Japanese tuners at Top Secret have taken their legendary V12 Toyota Supra to the Nardo test track in Italy and hit a top speed of 222mph. The Supra received its heart transplant from a JDM Toyota Century sedan and, with two HKS GT2540 turbos blowing a healthy amount of boost, the car was able to put down over 1000hp to the rear wheels. While 222mph is nothing to sneeze at, Top Secret is planning another outing to the banked circuit later this year to reach 248mph.