Unlike other Japanese automakers, Subaru needed only a few years since it established itself as a company to start selling cars in the United States. Founded in 1953, Subaru crossed the pond to North America in 1968, when Subau of America was born in Philadelphia. That's an impressive feat and it's not surprising that the carmaker is celebrating its 50th American anniversary with limited-edition versions for all its cars. Launched at the 2018 Chicago Auto Show, the new lineup also includes a special WRX STI that's limited to only 200 units, making it the rarest WRX you can buy in 2018.

Much like the rest of the 50th Anniversary Edition batch, the WRX STI sports the exclusive Heritage Blue exterior paint and special badges. It also has unique alloy wheels and satin chrome trim. However, it doesn't have the satin chrome trim mirror caps, as Subaru opted for Heritage Blue instead. A good choice!

The interior is mostly black, which might be an issue for some, but at least it has silver contrast stitching and matching seatbelts. 50th Anniversary logos are embroidered on the front seats and the carpeted floor mats, giving the cabin more exclusivity. The 50th Anniversary Edition is also based on the high-level Limited trim, meaning that it features an extensive list of standard equipment, including Recaro front seats, a sliding moonroof, eight-way power adjustable driver's seat, and keyless access with push-button start. The EyeSight Driver Assist technology package is also included.

The drivetrain remains standard, so the 2.5-liter boxer engine delivers the same 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. But with a 0-to-60 mph sprint time of 4.6 seconds and a top speed of 160 mph, the WRX STI is pretty solid in the performance department. And it's quicker than the significantly more powerful Ford Focus RS!

Of course, the coolest feature is that production will be limited to only 200 units. Get one and there's a big chance you won't see an STI like it for the rest of your life. The limited run could also help the car retain its market value and maybe even become a collectible one day. The good news is that it's not significantly more expensive than the WRX STI Limited it is based on. Priced from $41,195 before shipping and other fees, the 50th Anniversary model is only $300 more expensive than the Limited trim. Not a bad deal given all the extras.

References

Subaru WRX

Read our full review on the 2018 Subaru WRX STI.

Read more Chicago Auto Show news.

Read more Subaru news.