When it comes to bragging rights attached to production cars, most automakers quote the electrifying Nurburgring->ke999 lap times achieved by their hatchbacks or supercars. Subaru->ke86, however, is taking pride in a benchmark set on course that's more familiar to motorcycle riders than sharp-witted, fast drivers - the Isle of Man TT road course.

Three years have passed since a 2010 Subaru WRX STI driven by three-time British rally champion Mark Higgins set the car lap record at 19 minutes and 56.7 seconds, and the same team returned to the Isle of Man->ke3446 to improve the benchmark. And Higgins did so by hooning a 2015 WRX STI around the track and past the finish line in only 19 minutes and 26 seconds, smashing his previous record by no less than 30 seconds.

Durring his attempt, the British driver managed to reach an average speed of 116.47 mph and a top speed of 162.9 mph, two figures that are also superior to the ones he touched back in 2011. According to Subaru, the WRX STI used for the record-breaking course is a stock, U.S.-spec model that received some updates, including a FIA-approved roll-cage, racing seats, improved springs and dampers, and a fire suppression system. Additionally, the sedan->ke142 was fitted with Dunlop Derezza at all four corners and had its speed limiter - normally set at 155 mph - removed.

Click past the jump to read more about Subaru's Isle of Man record.

Why It Matters

Although the Isle of Man TT course has yet to reach the iconic status of the Nurburgring as far as automobiles are concerned, it remains a spectacular circuit and one of the very few that got to keep its old-school configuration. That being said, we can only hope that Subaru's new record will spur more manufacturers to land on the British island in search of fresh track glory.

What's disappointing about this record though is that Subaru opted to upgrade the WRX STI with numerous race-spec parts, throwing the vehicle's stock status to the dumpster. But at least the crew from Subaru of America was honest enough to admit it. Are you reading this, Nissan?

Subaru WRX STI

The redesigned 2015 Subaru WRX STI boasts a brand-new exterior and an aerodynamic body kit that keeps most of the signature features seen on previous STI sedans. The interior is upgraded as well, with soft touch materials covering most of the annoying hard plastic bits found in older models and a couple of additions in the technology department. Performance-wise, the WRX STI benefits from 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque squeezed out by a turbocharged, 2.5-liter boxer four unit.