The New Subaru Forester STI Sport, Keep Dreaming U.S. Fans

There's a new Subaru Forester STI Sport, but it's not heading to the U.S.; it's bound for Australia. The sporty new limited edition Forester has me dreaming of what could be.

Forester STI dreaming.

There has been talk about Subaru offering a Forester STI ever since Subaru Corporation dropped the turbocharged Forester 2.0XT model in 2018. Subaru Australia announced it's getting a newly upgraded 2024 Forester STI Sport this year. It won't be offered in the U.S., but we can still dream.

Unfortunately, this special edition Forester STI will be a 2024 model year, not the new next-generation Subaru Forester compact SUV. Also, the Forester STI Sport will not be turbocharged. The standard 2.5-liter Boxer engine comes with no power upgrade from Subaru Tecnica International.

"With the STI Sport AWD special edition, we're excited to offer a sportier option that enhances the driving experience while maintaining the Forester's renowned versatility and reliability," Subaru Australia general manager Scott Lawrence said.

Here's what it does have.

The Forester STI Sport has what you'd expect. Standard Symmetrical all-wheel-drive, EyeSight driver assist safety tech, and a CVT automatic transmission.   

Subaru says that instead of giving it more power or a turbo engine upgrade, the 2024 Subaru Forester STI Sport AWD comes with "sharper" handling than its standard trim models, courtesy of its STI-tuned dampers and enhanced driving dynamics.

Outside, the STI Sport has a black radiator grille, fog light surrounds, roof rails, exterior badging, mirror caps, trim insert, and under guards. It also features dark grey 18-inch alloys and an STI logo on the tailgate.

The cabin gets upgraded with black and burgundy Nappa leather seat upholstery, door trim, center console, instrument panel, an STI-branded instrument cluster, and red stitching.

The Forester STI has a premium price.

Subaru Australia says the new Forester STI Sport AWD has a $1500 premium over the standard Forester. 

The STI Sport comes with an 8.0-inch infotainment system with navigation, smartphone mirroring, an eight-speaker Harman Kardon premium sound, dual-zone climate control, LED exterior lighting, heated and power-adjustable front seats with memory function for the driver and dual-function X-Mode off-road capability.

Lawrence says, "This limited-run edition offers a fresh take on a familiar favorite, providing a special opportunity for consumers to enjoy something truly distinctive."

How many is Subaru Australia getting?

Subaru says that the exact allocation size is yet to be confirmed. My guess is around 500 models. 

Let's dream

The 2024 STI Sport Subaru is sending to Australia is a promising model, but it's just the beginning. Imagine a next-generation Forester STI Sport with more than just 'STI-tuned dampers' as the only upgrade. The potential is there, and it's exciting.

Subaru needs to have a turbocharged Forester performance model again.  

I would like to see Subaru design a Forester STI with a 2.4-liter turbocharged engine with 260 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque. This engine is available in the Subaru Outback, Ascent, and Legacy, so why not the Forester? 

Subaru should also give it additional STI suspension upgrades, new wheels wrapped in summer performance tires, and exterior aerodynamic upgrades. How about some new exciting colors just for the STI trim level? 

Up until now, Subaru of America hasn't needed any special edition Forester trim levels to boost sales. The next-generation Forester could be different. Forester sales have dropped, although Subaru says it's because "Forester was down year over year as production ramps up to full capacity." 

The 2025 Subaru Forester Sport is an excellent rim level with sporty upgrades that set it apart, but the Forester needs more for driving enthusiasts. It's time Subaru offers customers in North America a hot new Forester STI. 

Would you buy a Forester STI?

What are your thoughts on the potential of a turbocharged Forester STI? Your opinion matters. Click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know what you think. We value your feedback.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Writer since 2012. I’ve invested over 13 years in the automotive industry in a consulting role, working with every major car brand. I am an experienced Rocky Mountain Automotive Press member. You'll find my expert Subaru analysis here. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Subaru