2010 Subaru Impreza R205

R205 developed the STI hatchback around a road-sport brief, pairing a 320 PS reference with carefully coordinated braking and chassis changes. STI’s 2010 heritage record gives a 400-unit programme, separating the complete car from ordinary GRB Imprezas carrying similar parts.

A named complete car within the hatchback generation

STI identifies R205 as a complete model in its 2010 heritage catalogue. The name therefore describes more than a collection of performance accessories. For an individual car, the original identity and factory documentation should establish membership before present equipment is compared with the reference specification. A modified ordinary STI can resemble several of the R205’s features without becoming one of the original programme vehicles.

STI: R205 heritage and specification

The published engine figures retain their original units

The specification gives a 1,994 cc EJ20 at 235 kW or 320 PS and 432 Nm, linked to a six-speed manual. These values describe the factory model, not a current dyno test of the illustrated car. Keeping kW, PS and torque together makes the reference clearer and reduces casual unit substitutions. Any later calibration, replacement turbocharger or rebuild should be recorded separately rather than allowed to silently replace the original specification.

The braking system is part of the development story

STI describes upgraded braking equipment alongside the engine and aerodynamic work. As interpretation, a road-sport car is most coherent when acceleration, control and braking are developed together. A vehicle file should identify the original brake arrangement, later replacements and any changes in wheel clearance or tyre fitment. A visible caliper can support a specification check, but its colour alone is not proof of the correct internal components or complete-model identity.

STI: R205 heritage and specification

Flexible chassis components serve a defined purpose

The heritage description connects a Flexible Draw Stiffener and Flexible Tower Bar with specially developed dampers and springs. The approach should not be reduced to a claim that every additional brace automatically improves every road car. It is a particular coordinated design. When comparing an example with the factory specification, record the whole arrangement and its condition, including replaced bushings or links that may alter how the original package now behaves.

STI: R205 heritage and specification

The actual model photo supports a precise record

The supplied image is catalogued as an R205, rather than a generic hatchback or an unrelated concept. Its front view helps show the body and model treatment, while individual authentication still requires the chassis and original paperwork. Keep repair history and dated photographs alongside the factory reference. A new registration, a changed owner description or replacement parts should not lead to a second encyclopedia identity for the same physical car.

Specifications and identity reference

Rarity and production scope

STI lists 400 R205 units. The figure applies to the named complete car, not all STI hatchbacks or cars later fitted with R205-style equipment. It is attributed to the heritage specification rather than presented as a newly reconstructed completion or survivor register. The matched model photograph illustrates the identity without certifying an individual chassis number, present output or complete mechanical originality.

What the photograph represents

A photograph specifically catalogued as the R205 road model. It illustrates the named complete car without verifying an individual chassis number or every component’s present originality.

Related Subaru profiles

• 2002 Subaru Impreza S202 STI Version
• 2011 Subaru WRX STI S206
• 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI 380S Concept

Frequently asked questions

Can a parts-equipped STI be catalogued as an R205?

Only if the original complete-car identity is documented; matching accessories alone are insufficient.

Does 320 PS describe the pictured car’s measured current output?

No. It is the factory reference for the original model specification.

What is the production-count boundary for this profile?

STI lists 400 R205 units. The figure applies to the named complete car, not all STI hatchbacks or cars later fitted with R205-style equipment. It is attributed to the heritage specification rather than presented as a newly reconstructed completion or survivor register. The matched model photograph illustrates the identity without certifying an individual chassis number, present output or complete mechanical originality.

Sources and further reading

1. STI: R205 heritage and specification

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.