2002 Subaru Impreza S202 STI Version
Explore the Subaru Impreza S202 STI Version: history, verified identity, specification references, rarity evidence and real credited photos.
The S202 developed the competition-oriented Impreza into a deliberately focused STI complete car. Its 2002 programme combined increased output, reduced mass and specific suspension work within a factory-stated 400-unit reference.
The complete-car designation establishes the boundary
STI’s heritage account identifies S202 as a complete model, rather than an accessory bundle or an ordinary WRX STI carrying an S-series badge. The designation describes a coordinated development programme. For a catalogue, that means the vehicle’s original identity takes precedence over a present collection of upgraded components. A genuine S202 can have replacement parts, but the record should explain those changes instead of using visual similarity to manufacture programme membership.
STI: Impreza S202 heritage and specification
Power and mass were considered together
The published specification gives a 1,994 cc EJ20, 235 kW or 320 PS, and a reference kerb weight of 1,330 kg. Those figures help explain the project’s focus, but are manufacturer specifications rather than measurements of every surviving car. Added equipment, a retrim or later engine work can change the actual example. Compare a vehicle against the original reference carefully, preserving units and avoiding direct comparisons between PS and differently defined horsepower figures.
The six-speed transmission is part of the package
The S202 uses a six-speed manual in the factory specification. Its appeal should be understood through the relationship between engine, transmission and chassis rather than a single headline power number. A present gearbox or differential claim needs vehicle-specific evidence, especially after decades of performance use. For identification, retain the original commission record and relevant component documentation together, while recording replacements without suggesting they create a separate S202 production identity.
STI: Impreza S202 heritage and specification
Special materials change both response and preservation
STI describes reduced unsprung weight, specific rear suspension links and a real-carbon rear wing with angle adjustment. These details give the car an engineering identity beyond its paint and badges. They also create practical documentation needs: record wing condition, adjustments and any replaced suspension components. A photograph can illustrate those shapes, but it cannot establish internal condition or prove that a visually similar component has the correct material and construction.
STI: Impreza S202 heritage and specification
A later owner photograph illustrates the model
The included image is explicitly identified as an S202, providing a matched photographic subject rather than a generic early GDB. Its appearance still represents one example at one moment. Modifications visible in a later photograph should not be described as standard equipment merely because the model name is correct. An encyclopedia profile should connect the factory specification with the illustrated car while keeping the edition’s identity separate from an owner’s subsequent choices.
Specifications and identity reference
| STI heritage year | 2002 |
|---|---|
| Engine | EJ20; 1,994 cc turbo boxer four |
| Factory output | 235 kW / 320 PS |
| Transmission | Six-speed manual; AWD |
| Reference kerb weight | 1,330 kg |
| STI programme reference | 400 units |
Rarity and production scope
STI lists 400 S202 units. The figure belongs to the named complete-car programme, not all early GDB Imprezas, and is not multiplied by colour or later modification. It is attributed to the manufacturer’s heritage specification rather than presented as a newly audited chassis or survivor census. The photo identifies the model but does not certify the individual car’s original components or present output.
What the photograph represents
The source identifies this as an S202 in a later owner photograph. Its roof rack, aftermarket wheels and customised stance are not presented as the factory-delivered S202 specification.
Related Subaru profiles
Frequently asked questions
Does the S202 badge alone establish authenticity?
No. Match the original vehicle and programme records with the complete specification.
Is the quoted kerb weight a measurement of the pictured car?
No. It is STI’s reference specification, which can differ from an individual car’s present configuration.
What is the production-count boundary for this profile?
STI lists 400 S202 units. The figure belongs to the named complete-car programme, not all early GDB Imprezas, and is not multiplied by colour or later modification. It is attributed to the manufacturer’s heritage specification rather than presented as a newly audited chassis or survivor census. The photo identifies the model but does not certify the individual car’s original components or present output.
Sources and further reading
Research checked 19 October 2026. Linked manufacturer heritage pages, factory announcements, official distributor publications and labelled contemporary coverage support the specifically identified claims. Photographic descriptions identify the illustrated subject. Design analysis and suggested authentication steps are editorial interpretation.
Built in limited numbers
STI lists 400 S202 units. The figure belongs to the named complete-car programme, not all early GDB Imprezas, and is not multiplied by colour or later modification. It is attributed to the manufacturer’s heritage specification rather than presented as a newly audited chassis or survivor census. The photo identifies the model but does not certify the individual car’s original components or present output.
Gallery
Specifications
Factory specifications may vary by model year, market and configuration.
Identity & production
- Official model
- Subaru Impreza S202 STI Version
Sources and verification
Source citations are being prepared for this profile.
