Axel

If the choice eventually comes down to a prettier Toyota version with only the EJ20 engine option versus a perhaps plainer Subie version with a EJ25T option... I'd pay $10K more for the EJ25T with beefier tires.

Axel

updated story from 7tune.com:

While the regular Subaru 086A is expected to be exactly the same as the Toyota version albeit with subtle exterior/interior styling differences, it’s the high performance STi version that’s getting the most attention now that the FT-86 Concept has broken cover ahead of this month’s Tokyo Motor Show. The standard 086A of course utilizes Subaru’s EJ20 flat-four boxer engine with D4-S direct injection, an Aisin 6-speed gearbox and a rear differential as used on the Lexus IS250/350. The rumored output of 200PS has been quoted once again as to be “almost certain” but a conflicting rumor from another source sets the output as being low as 160PS. Nevertheless, the STi Version should answer people’s prayers for more power.

Holiday Auto (HA) reports that the STi Version will use the EJ25 2.5L engine that’s expected to produce between 240 – 250PS which is enough, HA say, to turn the 086A into a true performance car. An EJ25 turbo also hasn’t been ruled out, it seems that the Toyota/Subaru partnership have gone to great lengths to listen to what customers want and if the voices are loud enough, may come through with a boosted 086A Sti. In keeping with the Impreza WRX STi, the 086A STi Version will apparently get wider front and rear guards to accommodate a wider track with wider wheels and tires. The know-how gathered from tuning the suspension for the WRX STi will be used to improve the 086A’s handling characteristics, although HA stop short of saying the parts will be directly carried over. We should also expect some additional STi only aero parts such as a unique front bumper and rear trunk spoiler to give the STi Version a more motorsports inspired look.

Although it’s not confirmed yet, there’s a strong possibility the Subaru 086A STi Version will be shown at the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show or not long after at the 2012 Tokyo Auto Salon and will hit showrooms shortly thereafter.

Oolie

engine placement.

look where it is in the subie and you'll understand why they make them all awd.

Franisco

+1

poorguyssti

zigzagz94

240hp from a 2.5l boxer with more torque in a 2650lb rwd coupe sounds almost perfect. Do it Subaru, and do it soon. The car is already testing on the ring speed up production and get that thing out in early 2011 not 2012. The wait is killing me.

[es vi: eks]

Omg I think my prayers have been answered. I so want this soooooo bad omg

jonbatz01

wow good stuff

gjm

There's no doubt in my mind that this car is going to be awesome. However, I have to say that Japanese car mags are notoriously unreliable.
My understanding is that the whole purpose of this car is to be an affordable sports car. Chop up an Impreza, ditch the AWD, cut this and cut that and presto! The 2009 WRX produces only 224 bhp WITH a turbo. I think the 2010 got a bump. I doubt the EJ engine architecture can produce the NA horsepower.
I expect the 2.0L to produce the quoted 160 bhp and the 2.5L to be turbo charged and produce the WRX's bhp. Its still going to be awesome and the charm of the AE86 was not its horsepower.

himbo

The '09 WRX actually produces 265hp, and gained notoriety for hitting 0-60mph a little quicker than the STi. I don't have any doubts that the EJ can make the amazing 100hp/ltr. The DI and upping the compression ratio can definitely bring out numbers like that. BUT, I wonder that with the new restrictions on emissions and gas mileage if NA is really the best approach to achieve these goals. The more cost effective method is to slap on a small efficient turbo. With DI, and modern tuning, clean and efficient 200hp from 2ltrs is simple and cheap. Thats not to say I don't love NA power! I love the S2K, BMW's M lineup (well, just the M3 and M5), and I love the idea of making a small engine produce tons of power without FI!