Subaru of Japan is throwing on an AC motor and battery on the new 2019 Subaru Forester to make an STI model that’s made to scoot around city traffic.
Subaru of Japan already has a hybrid Forester that’s debuted in Japan that combines a battery, AC Motor, and its 2.0L N/A workhorse but this time around, it looks like they’ve allowed their in-house tuning specialists STI to work their magic to possibly squeeze a bit more power out of that naturally aspirated Boxer as well as throw on a bit more sporting credentials at the little mountain goat in time for the 2019 Tokyo Motor Show. According to Subaru of Japan in an official press release they dropped earlier today (Dec. 26, 2018) they’re introducing a 2019 Forester STI Concept model that might jump across the ocean to the United States if enthusiasts have anything to say on the matter.
According to Subaru of Japan, this Forester STI is based off the “Advance” which has an N/A 2.0 Boxer that puts out an OK 143 HP and 139 lb-ft. Their battery pack and motor adds an additional 13.4 HP and 48 lb-ft for a total system output of 156.4 HP and 187 lb-ft which is more than their largest motor for the Forester, the 2.5L and its 182 HP and 176 lb-ft.
I really don’t think Subaru would introduce an STI model without adding a bit more power so I expect this 2.0L e-boxer hybrid to make slightly more HP and lb-ft than the “Advance” hence I estimate 160 HP or more.
Subaru themselves even hint that more power than the “Advance” is on the way because they’ve outfitted this Forester STI with Brembo 6-Pot calipers to bring this Forester STI to a screeching, yet controlled, halt.
Outside, there’s a special “Fighter Gray” exterior paint and exclusive 19-inch wheels.
The 2019 Tokyo Motor Show kicks off on January 11, 2019 so expect to see the full reveal then.
Source: Subaru of Japan
