Subaru's Special Edition GT a Real Rarity

Motoring Channel Staff - 18/10/2005

Subaru Australia is adding a new turbocharged Liberty GT to its performance stable with the introduction of a variant tuned by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), of which only 300 units will be created.

Unveiled at the 2005 Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, the Liberty GT Tuned by STI features several engineering and cosmetic upgrades.

Nick Senior, Subaru Australia's managing director, said: "The Liberty GT Tuned by STI is the result of customer feedback, our strong relationship with Fuji Heavy Industries and Subaru Tecnica International in Japan, and the commitment and skill of our Australian engineering and development team based in Sydney and at Subaru Interactive @ Docklands in Melbourne."

Under the bonnet an upgraded Electronic Control Unit (ECU) increases peak power from 190 kilowatts to 200kW and torque from 330 Newton metres to 343Nm in the manual and 180kW to 190kW and torque from 310Nm to 343Nm in the automatic. This represents more than five per cent increase in power across both transmissions.

"The team from FHI spent time in Australia working with the Subaru Australia engineering and motor sport team to produce a variant developed especially for the Australian market, and I believe we have come up with a very exciting and appealing package," stated Senior.

Engine performance is improved with acceleration and throttle response becoming more linear, allowing superior acceleration at lower engine speed compared to the standard GT.

Two STI twin tip sports mufflers complete the engine upgrade components, enhancing exhaust flow and providing better turbo response and a sportier sound.

Suspension upgrades include STI lowered springs that drop the car by 15mm, sports tuned Bilstein front and rear struts, and a titanium look front strut brace increases the vehicle’s rigidity, enhancing handling and steering response.

An STI rear lateral link set reduces suspension friction, improving ride, roadholding and steering precision as well.

Customised body styling complements the vehicle’s performance capabilities and includes a front lip and rear boot spoiler enhancing vehicle aerodynamics by increasing down force and improving the front lift coefficient (CLf) by approximately 80%.

Unique 18-inch wheels feature a wider 7.5-inch rim and Pirelli P Zero Rosso (215/45R18) tyres maximise grip, especially in wet conditions.

Subaru Motorsport Manager Greg Foletta says the decision to use Pirelli tyres comes from Subaru and Pirelli’s strong rally heritage.

"Subaru and Pirelli have developed a strong relationship through rallying and to be able to work with Pirelli on this occasion was fantastic. Pirelli P Zero Rossos are high performance tyres, offering outstanding wet and dry grip as well as enhancing ride comfort, making them perfectly suited for the GT Tuned by STI."

Inside, an all-black interior features leather seats with STI embroidered alcantara inserts, complete with trademark red stitching, offering increased comfort levels. Titanium finish trim on the dash, centre console, door trim and an aluminium pedal set give the vehicle a modern, sporty edge. STI-red luminescent dash cluster lights complete the interior upgrades.

"Our goal was to refine, not redesign with the key focus being on enhancing all driving aspects," said Nick Senior. "Subaru customers who purchase this variant are interested in the next level when it comes to performance, and a unique driving experience.

"Both of these elements were top of mind when our engineers designed this special edition," Mr Senior mentioned.

The Liberty GT Tuned by STI is available as a sedan and wagon in both automatic and manual transmissions. The manual variant features a quick shift gear lever resulting in a quicker, more responsive and sporty gear change.

Available in Black, Premium Silver and Urban Grey the Liberty GT Tuned by STI will offer two alloy rim colours. Black vehicles will feature charcoal wheels while Premium Silver and Urban Grey vehicles will feature brushed silver wheels.

With a limited production of 300 vehicles, the Liberty GT Tuned by STI will be on sale from January 2006. Pricing for the Liberty GT Tuned by STI starts at $59,490 for the 5-speed manual sedan.