The tall, boxy features of the Forester, which made its U.S. debut in 1999, may not make it the best looking crossover to grace the pages of TopSpeed, but we can’t deny its utilitarianism. Tons of space for storage, all-wheel-drive grip, and a car-like personality combine to make it an ideal choice for someone looking for a vehicle that can do it all. The only real drawback is a lack of power. Luckily, for a brand with roots in the World Rally Championship->ke523, this isn’t a difficult problem to fix, as Subaru->ke86 will unveil an STI version of the Forester later next month.

To get us excited, pictures have emerged showcasing a big-brake and wheel package, an upgraded body kit, and plenty of go-fast badges.

The details are hazy, but given the lego-like nature with which Subarus are put together, you can safely bet that motive power will be derived from the same 305-horsepower, flat-four powerplant and six-speed manual transmission found in the current-generation STI. According to TorqueNews.com, steering and suspension components have been reworked to provide the right balance between comfort and performance.

Click past the jump to read more about the Subaru Forester STI.

2015 Subaru Forester STI

Specifications
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  • Model: 2015 Subaru Forester STI
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Subaru Forester STI in Detail

Fast Foresters are not an altogether new idea: we’ve been teased with the concept before, and Japan has enjoyed performance editions of the crossover for years. While a few intrepid enthusiasts have swapped STI components into their own Foresters in the past, the U.S. has never been offered a full-fledged STI model from the factory. Hopefully, that will change.

Competitors

Ford Edge

An all-around good performer, the Edge has been refreshed for 2015, with an increase in performance as one major focus. Upgrades include an available 2.7-liter, V-6 EcoBoost engine, adaptive steering, upgraded anti-roll bars, stiffer springs, 20-inch wheels shod in sport rubber, and aero enhancements. Buyers looking to pickup the top-of-the-line Sport model should expect a price tag just south of $40,000.

Infiniti QX50

The QX50 comes with all the makings of a great sport crossover: a 3.7-liter V-6 putting out 325 horsepower, excellent weight distribution, and beefy tires. The profile is low and aggressive, and the driving position is spot on. We weren’t a fan of the all-wheel-drive system, so unless you live somewhere that requires it, stick with rear-wheel drive.

Volvo XC60

When it comes to school and grocery runs, Volvo is usually at the top of list. Now, the Swedish manufacturer is giving these familial duties a sportier flavor with the XC60. Packing 300 horsepower and an eight-speed transmission, there’s plenty of muscle on tap, plus the low-profile Pirelli tires painted across 20-inch wheels provide plenty of grip. You’ll never be late for soccer practice again!

Subaru Forester