A lot of attention has been given recently to the latest incarnation of the Ford Focus RS. This car has emerged as a key rival to the WRX STI as a performance saloon. The Subaru BRZ 2016, Australia based drivers have come to love still satisfies the needs of sports cars customers. However, it appears that the WRX STI may have to respond to this new rival model. How will Subaru respond and will customers buying habits change?
The Challenge Laid Down:
The Australian market has seen more car manufacturers entering the market with performance hatchbacks. The Ford Focus RS represents the greatest threat to the Subaru WRX STI, and the hatchback needs to arrive. It is no secret that Subaru fans have been keen on a hot hatchback version of their favourite performance car. However, this has not yet materialised, and sales may be suffering as a result. Subaru tend to have their fingers on the pulse, and although this may not be a top priority right now, it’s safe to say they will be aware of the issue.
The 2018 Subaru WRX STI:
The next incarnation of the WRX STI is set to arrive in Australia in 2018. As things stand at the moment, there has been no mention of a hot hatchback version in the new lineup. Although one could speculate that such a model could exist, there would be a need for a considerable lead time. This would be needed for research and development, testing and numerous other hoops that need to be jumped through to produce a new car. It would appear that there is little likelihood of a hot hatch version of the forthcoming WRX STI.
Will Sales Suffer?
Well, potential sales may be lost to customers that are in the market for a hot hatchback. However, the WRX STI is firmly located in the performance saloon market where it reigns supreme. Car industry insiders believe that the 2018 WRX STI will have some new changes to entice new buyers. Firstly, many believe that there will be a significant upgrade to the exterior for 2018 that will please many fans. It is also believed that there will be a power bump up to 323 hp to get the most out of the turbocharged engine. One could argue that Ford Focus RS customers could be swayed from their choice by a Subaru WRX STI hot hatchback and that may be the case. Subaru will have to keep a closer eye on their competition as their rivals try to play catch up in this segment.
If they are looking for a Subaru BRZ 2016, Australia based drivers, should contact us. Here at Perth City Subaru, we have a wide variety of both new and used cars for sale. We would like to invite you to join us for a no obligation test drive at your earliest convenience. Our sales team is standing by to answer any further questions that you may have.
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