Which Subaru is the fastest?

The fastest Subaru ever produced is the limited-edition WRX STI S209, with the current fastest regular model being the WRX. This article breaks down how speed is measured, highlights the standout fast Subarus, and explains what “fast” means across Subaru’s lineup.

Fastest Subaru by top speed

This section focuses on the model that has achieved the highest theoretical top speed, including limited-edition or performance-focused variants. It helps distinguish rare, high-speed machines from everyday performance cars.

• Subaru WRX STI S209 — A limited-edition, STI-tuned version of the WRX STI. Power is boosted beyond the standard WRX STI, and Subaru positions it as the fastest Subaru ever built. It features a turbocharged flat-four, all-wheel drive, and extensive chassis and aero enhancements aimed at maximizing speed and track performance. Estimated top speed is in the high 170s mph range under optimal conditions, though real-world results depend on weather, gearing, tires, and what the car is allowed to do on a track or open road.


• Other notable fast Subarus — Historical STI variants and high-performance concepts from Subaru Tecnica International have pushed speeds higher than most regular Subarus, but the S209 remains the benchmark among production cars in terms of top-end potential. These models are rare, limited in quantity, and typically not intended for everyday driving.

The S209 stands out as the production model with the most aggressive tuning aimed at achieving top-end speed, aided by a revised intake/exhaust, suspension, braking, and aerodynamics. For enthusiasts seeking the Subaru shadow of a racetrack-ready machine, the S209 is widely cited as the fastest in official or near-official production context.

What makes the S209 fast

The S209’s speed comes from a combination of horsepower, chassis rigidity, brake capability, and aero enhancements designed to keep the car stable at high speeds. Its limited run and STI engineering distinguish it from the broader WRX family, which remains the more practical, all-around performer for daily driving.

Fastest Subaru in regular production today

If you’re asking about the fastest Subarus you can buy off a dealer lot today (excluding ultra-limited editions), the focus is on the WRX. It delivers the most horsepower and dynamic performance in Subaru’s current mainstream lineup.

• 2024–2025 Subaru WRX — The newest generation of the WRX carries a turbocharged flat-four with around 271 horsepower, all-wheel drive, and performance-minded tuning. It’s the quickest non-special-edition Subaru you can buy new, delivering strong acceleration and confident road manners. Real-world top speeds are typically cited in the mid- to high-100 mph range depending on configuration and tests, with acceleration around five seconds to 60 mph for many drivers.


• STI variants and other performance-tuned models — Subaru’s consumer-focused lineup does not currently include a new, mainstream STI model beyond the S209-era projects. Previous generation STI sedans and limited-run editions are the notable fast Subarus in the brand’s history, but they are no longer in regular production today.

In the contemporary lineup, the WRX is the fastest “normal” Subaru you can purchase new, balancing horsepower, AWD grip, and a sportier chassis with daily drivability. Buyers looking for the outright fastest factory Subaru typically turn to limited-edition STI variants like the S209 or classic, rare examples from the late-90s and early-2000s.

What “fast” means in Subaru’s lineup

Speed can be measured in several ways. Subaru’s approach blends horsepower, weight, traction, and handling character. Here are the key dimensions that define fast Subarus today:

• Peak horsepower and torque: Higher figures generally translate to faster straight-line acceleration.


• Drivetrain and traction: All-wheel drive, multi-clutch transmissions, and advanced stability control influence how quickly and confidently power is put to the ground.


• Track readiness: Aero enhancements, suspension tuning, and brake upgrades affect corner speed and stability at high speeds.


• Limited-edition vs. regular production: The fastest historical Subarus are often the limited-run STI variants rather than mass-market models.

For most buyers, the WRX represents the best balance of speed, handling, and practicality in the current Subaru lineup. If the goal is maximum speed, collectors and enthusiasts look to limited-edition STI models from Subaru’s tuning arm, which historically deliver the most extreme performance.

Summary

In the Subaru universe, the fastest production car ever built is the WRX STI S209, a limited-edition model from STI with top-end speed in the high 170 mph range. Among regular production Subarus, the WRX is the fastest in terms of performance and power, delivering about 271 horsepower with all-wheel drive and sport-tuned handling. Across the brand’s history, standout STI variants have repeatedly defined Subaru’s performance ceiling, while today’s lineup emphasizes a strong balance of speed, practicality, and everyday usability.

If you’d like, I can pull the latest official specs for a specific model year or trim, or compare top speeds and 0–60 times across several Subaru variants to tailor recommendations for your priorities.

Which Subaru has the best performance?

If you prefer a sporty driving experience, the Subaru WRX delivers turbocharged performance and precise handling, while the BRZ offers a rear-wheel-drive coupe experience for enthusiasts. Larger families will appreciate the three-row Subaru Ascent, which boasts spacious seating and ample cargo room.

Which is the fastest Subaru car?

The fastest stock Subaru is the 2004 STI WR1, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. However, customized and special-edition models can be significantly faster. The 2021 WRX STI is the fastest among the final generation of the WRX STI with a 0-60 mph time of 4.6 seconds. 
You can watch this video to learn about the fastest stock Subaru WRX STI generation: 49sSeppYouTube · Sep 25, 2023
Fast production and special-edition models

• 2004 STI WR1: 0-60 mph in 4.3 seconds. 
• 2012 WRX STI S206: 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. 
• 2021 WRX STI: 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds (final generation). 
• 1998 Impreza 22B STI: 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. 

Extremely fast custom/project cars 

• Project Midnight: A custom WRX with 670 hp, built for tarmac speed. 
• Airslayer: A 2020 WRX STI built for the viral Gymkhana 2020 video, with 862 hp and weighing around 2,700 lbs. 
• Kozmic Motorsports WRX STI: A 1400 hp WRX STI that set a Subaru MPH record at 182 mph. 

Key takeaways

• The fastest stock Subaru, based on 0-60 mph acceleration, is the 2004 STI WR1. 
• Among the last generation of WRX STIs, the fastest is the 2021 model. 
• Customized and specialized vehicles, such as Project Midnight and Airslayer, have significantly higher horsepower and much faster acceleration than any production model, even though they are not officially produced by Subaru. 

Is the brz or WRX faster?

The WRX is faster in a straight line due to its turbocharged engine with more horsepower and torque, while the BRZ is faster around corners due to its lighter weight and rear-wheel-drive layout. The WRX's all-wheel-drive system gives it superior grip in slippery conditions, making it a more practical all-weather performance car, while the BRZ's RWD setup offers a more agile and fun-to-drive experience, especially on a technical track. 
You can watch this video to see a direct comparison between the Subaru BRZ and WRX in a drag race: 35sEdmunds CarsYouTube · Jun 15, 2023
Subaru WRX

• Engine: Turbocharged 2.4L flat-four engine.
• Horsepower: 271 hp.
• Torque: 258 lb-ft.
• Drivetrain: All-wheel drive (AWD).
• Performance: Faster acceleration in a straight line due to more power and torque. The AWD provides better all-weather traction and grip.
• Practicality: A four-door sedan with a larger back seat, making it more versatile. 

Subaru BRZ

• Engine: Naturally aspirated 2.4L flat-four engine.
• Horsepower: 228 hp.
• Torque: 184 lb-ft.
• Drivetrain: Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
• Performance: Slower in a straight line but can be faster around corners due to being significantly lighter, making it more nimble.
• Practicality: A two-door coupe with a smaller and less practical back seat. 

This video compares the engine characteristics of the Subaru WRX and BRZ, highlighting the torque difference: 57sBen HardyYouTube · Feb 25, 2023
Which one is right for you?

• Choose the WRX if: You need a car that can handle all weather conditions, requires more practicality, and prioritizes straight-line speed. 
• Choose the BRZ if: You are looking for a pure, lightweight sports car experience, prioritize cornering, and do not need all-wheel drive or a large back seat. 

What's faster, EVO or STI?

The Evo averages an astonishing 4.6 seconds from 0 to 60 mph. It might only beat the Subaru STI to that mark because the Evo can get there, just barely, in second gear, although it also holds a slight advantage through the quarter-mile, too. That's despite ceding 10 horsepower and 192 pounds of curb weight to the STI.