Subaru’s stellar Impreza WRX STi sedan is known for its raw power, precise handling, and for reasons that escape anyone over 35, its boy-racer looks accented by an oversized rear wing. Too bad that’s the view most people get as this 293-horsepower pocket rocket uses its 290 lb.-ft. of torque to haul tail away from red lights. The interior is geared toward function rather than refinement, with well-bolstered bucket seats, a 120-watt sound system and six-disc CD changer, the typical array of power features, and even air conditioning. But, some buyers want their all-wheel-drive, rally-bred toys delivered with a quieter, plusher cabin in which to enjoy time spent roasting the occasional Mitsubishi Evo or Honda Civic bastardized by every after-market part imaginable. For up to 800 of them, satisfaction comes in the form of a 2007 Subaru Impreza WRX STi Limited.

Available in Satin White Pearl or Urban Gray Metallic, the Limited boasts upscale features like leather upholstery, heated front bucket seats, unique metallic interior trim, additional sound insulation, an electrochromic interior rearview mirror with an integrated compass, and an iPod jack. There’s also a power sunroof and, as befits any limited-production model, a plate denoting the vehicle’s place within the Limited’s 800-unit run. The exterior is marked by 17-inch BBS alloy wheels wrapped in 225/45 Bridgestone Potenza performance tires, black Brembo brake calipers, front fog lights, and a very subtle rear spoiler replacing the conspicuous version found on the standard STi.

Subaru has yet to release pricing for the 2007 WRX STi Limited, though its safe bet that there will be at least a moderate bump up from the $33,000 2006 STi. Models are due to go on sale in August of 2006.

Photos by Subaru and Ron Perry