Edmunds CarPool

Gone are the HID headlamps, foglamps, 6-disc/10 speaker stereo and automatic climate control. In their stead are good 'ole halogen headlamps, no foglamps, a single-disc/4-speaker stereo and a simple three-dial climate control. Added are the wheels and suspension tweaks of the JDM Spec-C model. The rims are sweet 14-spoke flat-grey hoops in the same size as the regular STI (18 x 8.5-inch). The front springs have been stiffened 16 percent, while the rear springs are 29-percent firmer. The rear anti-roll bar has gone up 1 mm in thickness, and the rear subframe bushings have been upgraded to provide less play. Thanks to the new springs, ride height drops one millimeter.

The net effect of these changes is a far more buttoned down and sharper handling STI that feels more hardwired to driver inputs. Since we only got to sample the S.E. on the track (Streets of Willow), and did not have a standard STI on hand for comparison, we're working from memory here, but still have some impressions.

The regular STI is a great compromise between grip and everyday composure (especially if you live where the pavement has little resemblance to a racetrack). Roll stiffness is not its forte, however, and though it has plenty of grip, it has never felt as balanced as its main rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo. The S.E.'s firmed up suspension should make it a far more dedicated corner carver.

Turn-in is much sharper, and thanks to the stiffer rear sway-bar and bushings, understeer has been further reduced. Though it wears the same tires as the STI, the stiffer setup makes better use of them, and mechanical grip feels extended. Though we only got to use it on the track, the ride felt firm but in no way punishing. You can seriously hustle this car, with little loss of composure.

We think Subie has a winner on its hands. How can it not be with more of what many folk look for in an STI for less money? Few will ever miss the HIDs and foglamps, you're probably going to put your own (better sounding) stereo in it anyway, and what's more intuitive than the tried-and-true three-dial HVAC setup? Even if you can't get one of the first ones in Aspen White, for handling junkies, the STI Special Edition is now the one to get. Look for a full-test soon.

UPDATE: Subaru introduced the 2011 STI at the NY Auto Show, which provides even keener suspension mods tuned at the Nurburgring. The tweaked 2011 should easily own the crown of sharpest handling STI ever...