If you have ever wished your daily driver could borrow some of the visual drama of Subaru’s rally-bred STI lineage—without the turbocharged tantrums—then the Subaru Impreza S-Edition might just be your dream on four wheels. This limited-run special edition, exclusive to Australia, is Subaru’s stylish send-off to the current-generation Impreza, and it’s dressed to impress.
🎯 Aesthetic Overhaul: STI-Inspired Drama
At first glance, the S-Edition looks like it’s ready to tear up a gravel stage. Subaru has dipped into its STI parts bin to give the Impreza a serious attitude adjustment. The most striking upgrade? A set of 18-inch black Enkei alloy wheels, each flaunting a red STI emblem on the hubcaps. These are paired with a suite of aerodynamic enhancements: a front splitter, rear skirt, and roof spoiler, all finished in glossy black. The sports grille features a unique mesh pattern that adds aggression to the front fascia.
Buyers can choose from three bold paint options—Pure Red, Crystal Black Silica, and Crystal White Pearl—each complementing the black accents for maximum visual punch. Inside, the cabin gets a subtle nod to performance with an STI-branded start button and a matching shift knob, adding a touch of motorsport flair to your morning commute.
🧠 Under the Hood: All Show, No Go?
Here’s where the S-Edition might divide opinions. Despite its race-ready looks, the car is mechanically identical to the Impreza AWD 2.0S. That means a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter boxer engine producing 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS), paired with a Lineartronic CVT and Subaru’s signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.
There are no changes to the suspension or brakes, although Subaru does offer a flexible tower bar as an optional extra for those seeking a touch more chassis rigidity. In essence, the S-Edition is a visual upgrade package, not a performance one. It’s a warm hatch masquerading as a hot one.
🏁 Limited Edition Legacy
Subaru is only producing 100 units of the Impreza S-Edition, making it a collector’s item for fans of the brand. Priced at AU$42,490 (US$27,700), it’s AU$3,500 more expensive than the standard Impreza AWD 2.0S, but Subaru claims it includes AU$6,500 worth of extras. That’s a decent value proposition if you’re drawn to the STI aesthetic but don’t need the extra horsepower.
This edition also marks the 30th anniversary of the Impreza nameplate in Australia, a model that’s sold nearly 170,000 units since its debut in 1993. Subaru Australia’s Managing Director, Blair Read, described the S-Edition as a celebration of the Impreza’s legacy, combining “enhanced sports styling to match the Impreza’s symmetrical all-wheel drive capability.”
🧭 Who Is It For?
The Impreza S-Edition is perfect for drivers who want to stand out without sacrificing comfort or practicality. It’s a great choice for those who admire the STI’s aggressive styling but prefer a more relaxed driving experience. Think of it as a tribute to Subaru’s rally heritage, tailored for the urban jungle.
It’s also a smart move by Subaru to keep enthusiasts engaged while the brand transitions to its next-generation Impreza. With the sixth-gen model already unveiled globally, the S-Edition serves as a stylish swan song for a car that’s been a staple of the Subaru lineup for three decades.
🔍 Final Thoughts
The Subaru Impreza S-Edition is a masterclass in visual transformation. It’s proof that you don’t need blistering speed to make a statement. While purists might lament the lack of mechanical upgrades, there’s no denying the appeal of its STI-inspired design. It’s bold, limited, and unapologetically stylish.
