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What does the STI stand for in Subaru?

The STI in Subaru stands for "Subaru Tecnica International," the high-performance division of Subaru that develops and produces the brand's most powerful and track-focused vehicles.


Subaru Tecnica International (STI)


Subaru Tecnica International (STI) is the in-house tuning and motorsports division of Subaru, responsible for developing the brand's high-performance models. STI was established in 1988 to oversee Subaru's motorsports activities and to create specialized, performance-oriented versions of Subaru's production vehicles.


The STI division is known for taking Subaru's standard models, such as the Impreza, WRX, and Outback, and enhancing their performance, handling, and overall driving dynamics. STI-tuned Subaru models typically feature more powerful engines, upgraded suspension components, larger brakes, and distinctive styling cues to set them apart from the standard versions.


STI-Tuned Subaru Models


Some of the most well-known STI-tuned Subaru models include:



  • Subaru Impreza WRX STI: The flagship STI model, featuring a turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer engine, all-wheel drive, and a high-performance suspension setup.

  • Subaru BRZ tS (tuned by STI): A more track-focused version of the Subaru BRZ sports car, with aerodynamic enhancements and suspension upgrades.

  • Subaru Outback XT: An STI-tuned version of the Subaru Outback crossover, with a turbocharged engine and performance-oriented upgrades.

  • Subaru Ascent STI Concept: A high-performance concept version of Subaru's three-row Ascent SUV, showcasing the potential of STI's tuning capabilities.


These STI-tuned Subaru models are designed to offer a more engaging and exhilarating driving experience for enthusiasts, while still maintaining the brand's reputation for reliability and all-weather capability.

Why did Subaru discontinue the STI?


During a Road and Track interview, Dominick Infante, Subaru's Director of Corporate Communications confirmed that regulations regarding both emissions and electrification were the true cause for the life of the WRX STi to end.



Why did Subaru call it STI?


Subaru originally started the term STI, or Subaru Tecnica International, in 1988 to develop a worldwide image of competitive motorsports within the Subaru brand. Paired with PRODRIVE, a British motorsports company, the original STI was based on a Subaru Legacy.



Is STI better than WRX?


The STI will have better brakes, stiffer suspension, a better transmission, a controllable center diff which will allow for finer control of the car in certain situations, and better steering due to it's unique hydraulic system that is entirely absent on the standard wrx.



Is the STI a fast car?


The top speed of the Subaru WRX STI is 174 mph. It can theoretically go faster, but things like aerodynamic drag and its transmission gear keep it from exceeding that speed.



What does TS stand for in Subaru?


That moniker stands for “tuned by STI,” and the latest WRX variant gains a new suspension tweaked by the STI performance division, along with a new digital gauge cluster.



What does Subaru BRZ mean?


So Army's rear wheel drive and that basically means that the engine's power is being delivered to the rear wheel. And last is Zenith. And that means the highest point a star reaches the sky.



What is SRH in a Subaru?


Subaru is proud to announce Steering Responsive Headlights. They can help you see better around corners because they aim towards the direction you are steering, rather than simply pointing straight ahead. You can see further around the corner, so you can react sooner if something unexpected happens.



What does WRX stand for in Subaru?


World Rally eXperimental
Subaru tells us that the name WRX stands for "World Rally eXperimental." Fast forward to 2015, and the WRX lineup was split from the Impreza range along with a different body style to simply be marketed as the stand-alone WRX.



What does XT stand for in Subaru?


So the new Subaru Outback “X” T means its all-wheel-drive system has a "go-anywhere" attitude because it was perfected in the snow, dirt, and gravel on the world rally stages. Subaru X-Mode maximum traction system.



Why was STI discontinued?


During a Road and Track interview, Dominick Infante, Subaru's Director of Corporate Communications confirmed that regulations regarding both emissions and electrification were the true cause for the life of the WRX STi to end.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.