Japan Gets the Best Subaru Forester Yet – STI Sport Breakdown!

The Subaru Forester STI Sport is not your average family-friendly utility vehicle. Subaru brought together its motorsport DNA and refined engineering to create a Forester that looks sharper and drives tighter, all without tampering with the core powertrain. From the moment it is parked under the spotlight, the STI Sport version tells a different story — one where sportiness and emotion are front and center.

This version of the Forester does not get a horsepower upgrade, but it does get something equally exciting for real driving enthusiasts — a specially tuned suspension system by Subaru Tecnica International. Those Hitachi Astemo front dampers are not just for show. They tighten up the ride, giving you more confidence through corners and a more composed feel over rough surfaces. It is a setup inspired by sports sedans, brought into an SUV body.

Visually, it is clear this is not a standard Forester. Gloss black finishes cover the grille, mirror caps, front and rear bumpers, and that sharp STI badge is right there on the grille and tailgate. The 18-inch black alloy wheels wrapped in performance rubber complete the look. Underneath the vehicle, the red accents along the front lip, side skirts, and rear bumper scream performance heritage — and it works.

Inside, the black and Bordeaux red leather gives the cabin a refined and sporty vibe. You will find STI branding in the instrument cluster, red stitching on the steering wheel, and a center console that feels more WRX than weekend grocery-getter.

So, while there is no turbocharged power boost, the STI Sport makes its mark by transforming the Forester into a more emotional and more connected drive. If you are in Japan, this is probably one of the most exciting versions of the Forester to date.