Subaru axed the sporty 2.0XT model when they redesigned the all-new fifth-generation 2019 Forester and fans aren’t happy. Fans want a Forester with more than the newly-redesigned 2019 Forester’s 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated Boxer producing 182 hp and 176 lb-ft of torque. It just doesn’t excite Forester enthusiasts. And the new 2019 Forester Sport trim isn’t much more than an appearance package.

Subaru Corp announced at the New York International Auto Show in 2015, they would bring more Subaru Technica International (STI) enhanced models to the US. So where is the Forester STI? Subaru already offered a Forester tS (tuned by STI) in Australia, and it was a huge success when was offered down under. Subaru only built 300 examples for the Australian market and they were snatched up quickly.

The Forester tS was powered by the standard 2.0XT turbo boxer and had special equipment underneath that was developed at the Nurburgring alongside the WRX STI S207. The performance SUV sat 15mm lower than the regular model and came with a special track-tested STI-tuned suspension setup and tuning for performance driving dynamics. Underneath it featured 19-in BBS aluminum wheels wrapped in 245/45R19 performance tires, 17-in ventilated Brembo disc brakes both front and rear with red STI logo.

When it launched in Australia in 2016, Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: “When we flagged Forester tS late last year, the customer inquiries went through the roof and the end result is we’re already wishing we’d ordered more.” Now Subaru and STI need to jointly develop a new fifth-generation Forester like the performance Australian Forester tS. Senior went on to say, “It certainly gives us great confidence in progressing other joint projects between the factory and STI.”

We already know there’s great fan interest in a performance-oriented Forester SUV. Now Subaru Corporation needs to make a call to Subaru Technica International and let them know they need a left-hand drive 2020 Limited Edition Forester STI for the North American market. Will Subaru give Fozzy fans something to get excited about? Stay tuned.

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Photo credit: Subaru AU