UNUSUAL CARS MODEL GUIDE
The Subaru Forester STI is the Japanese-market performance flagship of the second-generation SG Forester. Introduced in 2004 and substantially updated in 2005, it combined a 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four with a six-speed manual gearbox, Brembo brakes, 18-inch wheels and a body lowered by 30mm.
Quick answer: this is a factory STI model, not merely a Forester wearing badges. It delivers genuine Impreza-related performance in a practical five-door body, but every British example is an import and many have since been modified.
From crossover to pure sports SUV
The original Forester created a useful middle ground between estate car and SUV. For the STI Version, Subaru described its aim as a pure sports SUV with exceptional on-road performance. That meant developing the powertrain, brakes, steering, suspension and cabin as a coherent package.
The first SG5 STI Version appeared in February 2004. The facelifted SG9 introduced in May 2005 is the version most enthusiasts recognise: a 2.5-litre turbo model with stronger mid-range torque, revised styling and a highly distinctive blue, black or white road presence.
2.5-litre turbo engine and six-speed gearbox
Subaru quoted 195kW, equivalent to 265PS, and 378Nm for the 2005 car. The EJ25-based engine used a semi-closed-deck cylinder block, high-strength pistons and connecting rods, a larger turbocharger and intercooler, sodium-filled exhaust valves and the familiar red-finished intake manifold.
A six-speed manual gearbox was standard. Front and rear Suretrac limited-slip differentials helped manage traction, while the combination of torque and relatively short gearing gave the Forester STI a different character from an ordinary turbo SUV.
| Specification | 2005 Forester STI Version |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-litre turbocharged flat-four |
| Official output | 195kW / 265PS |
| Official torque | 378Nm |
| Transmission | Six-speed manual, four-wheel drive |
| Wheels and tyres | 18-inch wheels, 225/45 R18 tyres |
| Ground clearance | 170mm, 30mm lower than other Foresters |
Brakes, suspension and steering
Brembo brakes, 18-inch wheels and model-specific stabilisers gave the STI the hardware expected of a serious performance model. A quicker 15.0:1 steering ratio and lower ride height sharpened its responses, while the reinforced practical shell retained the visibility and luggage space that made the Forester useful.
The result should feel tied down rather than harsh or unstable. A car that wanders, crashes over bumps or wears tyres unevenly may have tired dampers, damaged bushes, incorrect geometry or a poorly chosen aftermarket suspension kit.
Interior and identification
STI details include a central tachometer, a 240km/h speedometer, model-specific seats, aluminium pedal covers and cherry-red stitching. The front bumper and grille, large bonnet intake, wheels and exhaust also differ from ordinary SG Foresters.
Because body kits and badges can be copied, use the Japanese chassis code and export documentation to establish identity. A genuine SG9 STI should be judged as a complete factory specification rather than a collection of visible accessories.
Love cars you don’t see every day?
Get forgotten cars, surprising motoring stories and the most interesting finds from Unusual Cars by email.
Free to join. No spam. Unsubscribe whenever you like. See our privacy policy.
Subaru Forester STI buying guide
Import identity and paperwork
Check the Japanese export certificate, registration record, chassis code and mileage history. Confirm that kilometre-to-mile conversions and speed limiting changes were done correctly. Insurance should describe the vehicle as an STI import, not a standard Forester turbo.
Engine and cooling
Test from cold and look for smoke, uneven idle, oil leaks, coolant staining or combustion pressure in the expansion system. EJ25 engines demand correct oil, careful warming and a safe tune. Compression and leak-down testing are prudent where modifications or an engine rebuild are claimed.
Six-speed transmission and differentials
The six-speed is strong but not indestructible. Check clutch engagement, every synchro, wheel bearings and driveline noise. Tight-turn shudder or mismatched tyres can indicate transmission stress. All four tyres should match in model, size and wear.
Brembo brakes and suspension
Inspect calipers for seized pistons or poor refinishing, measure disc condition and verify the correct wheel clearance. Tired dampers and bushes can make the car feel less precise, while very low suspension may introduce geometry and tyre-wear problems.
Rust, accident damage and completeness
Inspect rear arches, sills, floors, front rails, suspension mounts, subframes and the spare-wheel well. Imported cars vary enormously in condition after years on British roads. Model-specific seats, trim, wheels and exterior pieces can be costly to replace.
Modifications and claimed power
The old article on this URL described a 320bhp example, but that output is not the factory rating. Exhaust, intake, turbo, fuel-system and ECU changes require evidence of parts, installation and safe calibration. Treat an unsupported power claim as a warning rather than an upgrade.
Sources
- Subaru: 2005 Forester STI Version announcement and specification
- Subaru: original 2004 Forester STI Version announcement
- Subaru corporate vehicle and technology history
Continue the Subaru story
Explore the Rare & Performance Subarus hub, compare the Impreza P1, or discover the SVX.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Subaru Forester STI?
It is a Japanese-market performance version of the second-generation SG Forester, developed by Subaru Tecnica International with a 2.5-litre turbo engine, six-speed manual gearbox, Brembo brakes and model-specific chassis tuning.
How much power does the Forester STI produce?
Subaru quoted 195kW, or 265PS, for the 2005 model and 378Nm of torque. Imported cars may be advertised with higher figures after tuning, which should be supported by invoices and a credible calibration record.
Was the Forester STI officially sold in Britain?
No. UK examples are Japanese imports, so buyers must check import documentation, registration details, speedometer conversion, insurance and parts support.
Is a Forester STI simply an Impreza STI estate?
No. It shares Subaru performance engineering and a six-speed manual gearbox, but it remains an SG Forester with its own body, wheelbase, suspension tuning and practical cabin.
What are the main Forester STI buying checks?
Prioritise shell corrosion, engine health, cooling, six-speed gearbox operation, Brembo brake condition, suspension wear and evidence that any modifications were mapped and installed properly.