The ultimate limited-edition performance Subaru, the SAIGO WRX STI, has arrived on New Zealand shores.
Born of rally heritage and proven on the track, the STI is Subaru’s flagship fast-charger and the SAIGO version - which translates as ‘the last’ in Japanese – adds rarity to this limited-edition model’s appeal. The SAIGO WRX STI is the last of this STI’s current generation and there are only 20 of them available for Kiwi customers.
Subaru of New Zealand launched the Subaru SAIGO WRX in 2020 (the last limited-edition Subaru WRX of the current generation) and the 18 special performance cars were snapped up in a hurry.
Subaru of New Zealand’s Managing Director Wallis Dumper says the model garnered a lot of attention.
“This year we have a WRX STI version. Collectors of special models, who like to get their hands on unique cars, or in this case, a piece of Subaru history, will need to hurry to secure one of these ‘last’ STIs,” he says.
“The SAIGO WRX STI models won’t be sitting on the Subaru Authorised Centres’ showroom floors for long. We’ve had an indication that around half of the vehicles are already sold, so if you’re thinking of getting one, we suggest you act quickly to avoid missing out.”
“Our WRX and WRX STI models are synonymous with Subaru Country, and they are well ingrained in the brand’s performance history. Engineered for Kiwi drivers who want to take their driving to the next level, this SAIGO STI is the total performance package and is the closest experience you can have to driving a race car on the track,” Mr Dumper says.
The 2021 SAIGO WRX STI will have an RRP of $67,990 and presents a striking package, outfitted with a host of commanding features. Decked out with the iconic STI rear wing, then stamped with black badging and shod in 19” forged gold alloy wheels, the SAIGO’s exterior immediately draws the eye.
Inside the cabin, the suede D-shaped steering wheel, matte carbon dash panel, Recaro seats, plus the silver seat belts and stitching all set the SAIGO STI apart as a distinct performance model.
The 20 proud owners of a 2021 Subaru SAIGO WRX STI will receive their keys presented in a custom presentation box, with their vehicle’s VIN number and [number] of 20 noted inside the box. Also included is an engraved keyring with [number] of 20 and the SAIGO WRX STI logo, as well as a replica Nürburgring WRX STI model car in its original box - referencing the history Subaru has with the infamous track.
The WRX STI has spent plenty of time successfully scorching laps there and has won the SP3T class six times at west Germany’s famous 24 Hours Nürburgring – an annual touring car and GT endurance racing event. Since 1992, this complex and challenging circuit has also been a proving ground for Subaru, where the STI production models have been tested as part of Subaru’s global research and development plan, prior to going on sale.
Mr Dumper adds: “The Nürburgring, which is also known as the ‘Green Hell’ is one of the most dangerous tracks in the world. It is also the final test to make sure production vehicles have the durability as well as the performance of a Subaru WRX STI. Whether competing in motorsports or developing mass-produced vehicles, using the Nürburgring as a barometer has taught STI ‘real life’ engineering lessons that no textbook or computer simulation could have provided,” he says.
“The WRX STI is not solely a track car and as many Kiwis know, given our nation’s passion for motorsport, it is a popular choice for rally drivers worldwide. They include Subaru New Zealand’s brand ambassador Ben Hunt, who drove his converted-to-rally-spec Subaru WRX STI to victory in the 2019 New Zealand Rally Championship.
First launched in 1994, the WRX STI brought rally-proven technology to the masses, with the turbocharged Subaru Boxer engine coupled with the Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) and Subaru’s Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive engineering prowess.
Over the years several WRX STI limited-edition models have hit the market, such as the 400 Impreza 22B STI Subarus made globally, along with variants like the S202. The 22B STI achieved legendary status, which was demonstrated recently, when an immaculate version, stamped with the serial number 156 out of 400, sold for over $430,000.
Mr Dumper echoes STI’s mantra that its vehicles rely on one basic goal, which is “above all, to empower the driver with a more engaging, responsive experience.”
“This SAIGO WRX STI model is truly for those who are after a driver’s car,” he concludes.
2021 SAIGO WRX STI’s key features:
• STI rear wing
• 19” forged gold alloy wheels
• Suede D-shaped steering wheel
• Matte carbon dash panel
• Recaro seats
• Silver seat belts and stitching
• STI start button
• Black exterior badges
• Black roof antenna
• Front grille with red pin stripe
• Silver Brembo brakes
• Sunroof
• EJ25 Final Edition engine bay badging
• Available colours – crystal black silica, crystal white pearl, WR blue pearl.
The WRX SAIGO STI has a Recommend Retail Price of $67,990 including GST and is available only at the selected Authorised Subaru Centres that secured one of the 20 units allocated to New Zealand.
Catherine Pattison
Public Relations
Subaru of New Zealand
M +64 (0)27 44 55 389
E catherine.pattison@subaru.co.nz
subaru.co.nz