For 2019 WRX consumers looking for a model that sets them apart a little, Subaru is unleashing 100 units of the 2019 WRX Raiu Edition. Unfortunately, it’s a Canada-only offering when it arrives at dealerships this year, marking the company’s first special edition WRX in Canada in over 15 years.
Priced at C$40,995 (around $31,150 USD), what sets the 2019 WRX Raiu Edition apart from the lineup? Not a whole lot aside from some cosmetic differences, including an STI-branded front lip, side sill, and rear side spoilers, as well as an STI-branded short-throw shifter. Oh, and Raiu translates to ‘thunderstorm’ in Japanese, so that’s a bit different.
Based on the WRX Sport-tech RS in Canada, which comes equipped with Recaro front seats and Ultrasuede upholstery front and rear, the Raiu Edition finds the same 2.0L turbocharged, 4-cylinder engine powering its siblings, making 268-hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbocharged Boxer 4-cylinder |
| Power | Approximately 268 horsepower |
| Torque | Approximately 258 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual transmission |
| Drive Type | Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) |
| Suspension | Sport-tuned suspension |
| Brakes | Performance brakes |
| Wheels | 18-inch alloy wheels |
| Tires | High-performance tires |
There’s also the more powerful 2020 Subaru WRX STI Kanrai Edition, limited to Canada and 75 units only, powered by the 2.5L turbo making 310 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque.
Other notables include an exclusive Cool Grey Khaki exterior colour, gunmetal-finished 18-inch alloy rims, and some black interior and exterior accents. Overall, the 2019 WRX Raiu Edition is perfect for consumers looking for a WRX with some STI cosmetic enhancements straight from the factory floor. In closing, here are the standard interior features:
- Recaro performance-design front seats
- Subaru Starlink multimedia system
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Keyless access with push-button start
