Subaru->ke86 is no stranger to special-edition models that are based on the color of the vehicle, and now we introduce you to another limited-run Subaru, the WRX STI Series. HyperBlue. Can you guess where it gets its name?

That’s right, that North Carolina Tarheels blue hue coating this all-wheel-drive performance sedan->ke142 is dubbed Hyper Blue. This rig joins the 2016 Subaru BRZ Series.HyperBlue to form a duo of models that Subaru will limit to a total of 1,200 units (500 BRZs->ke3973 and 700 WRX STIs->ke4657).

Its flashy new paint job isn’t all the Series.HyperBlue WRX STI has going for it. It also has a few upgrades inside the cabin and a set of exclusive wheels to set it apart.

So, the big question is whether or not this limited-run WRX will actually be worth the extra money that Subaru will most certainly ask for it?

Updated 09/03/2015: Subaru announced prices for the special edition Series.HyperBlue WRX STI which will arrive at local dealerships this fall. It will be priced from $39,790, including $795 destination and delivery.

Continue reading my full review to get the answer to this and more.

Exterior

Though the WRX STI disappointed folks who put too much stock in the concept->ke169 that previewed it, the model has grown on most fans. The Series.HyperBlue model doesn’t make any changes to the look of the WRX STI, save for the addition of the exclusive HyperBlue hue coating the new body, gloss-black mirror caps and badges, and 18-inch BBS black-alloy wheels. Otherwise, the STI carries on with its signature hood scoop, huge wing, rear diffuser and aerodynamic body kit.

Interior

The interior of the Series.HyperBlue WRX STI goes a bit further in terms of upgrades. Inside the cabin, Subaru adds blue accent stitching on the seats, steering wheel, shifter boot and console, and floor mats with the signature Cherry Red STI logo.

Also part of this special package is Subaru’s Starlink 7-inch multimedia navigation system with nine speakers and a 440-watt amp by Harman/Kardon, and push-button ignition with PIN code access.

Other than these upgraded features, the interior of this special WRX STI is all standard.

Drivetrain

Note: standard Subaru WRX STI drivetrain shown.

The heart of the WRX STI remains unchanged in the Series.HyperBlue. This means that it retains the standard 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine that produces 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. The only transmission available on the STI is a six-speed manual – no CVT here – which mates to Suby’s famed symmetrical all-wheel-drive system.

This powertrain amounts to a 0-to-60 mph sprint of 5.2 seconds. Speed and power don’t come cheap, though, as the STI gets just 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway.

Prices

The new special edition Series.HyperBlue WRX STI is priced at $39,790, including $795 destination and delivery.

Speaking of its limited nature, Subaru will limit production of the STI Series.HyperBlue to just 700 units.

This model will hit showrooms in the fall of 2015.

Competition

2015 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

The only true competitor to the WRX STI is the Lancer Evolution->ke2426, which has its head in the guillotine awaiting the hooded executioner at Mitsubishi->ke58 to pull the lever that ends its life. Okay, maybe that’s a bit dramatic, but it’s set for elimination following the 2015 model year nonetheless.

The Evo is definitely running with dated looks, but its under-hood bits are good to go, thanks to a 2.0-liter turbocharged heart that pumps 291 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque through its all-wheel-drive veins. It’s horsepower rating is a tad lower than the WRX STI’s, but its extra 10 pound-feet of torque and gearing helps it get to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds with the five-speed manual and five second with the MR’s dual-clutch unit.

Read our full review here.

2016 Volkswagen Golf R

If you’re willing to go the hatchback route->ke304, the VW Golf R is a great alternative to the WRX STI. In fact, some folks actually prefer the Golf R because Subaru discontinued the hatchback version of the STI.

The Golf R offers insane performance, thanks to its 2.0-liter turbocharged four-pot that lays down 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque. This powerful four-cylinder engine mates to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission that shoots the power out to all four wheels, resulting in a sprint to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds.

Read our full review here.

Conclusion

Without knowing the price, it is hard for me to say if the WRX STI Series.HyperBlue is a good deal or not. On the surface, however, owning a WRX is awesome enough, and owning a 1-of-700 special-edition WRX STI is downright badass. Given Suby doesn’t go overboard with pricing, I don’t see how buying this car would be a bad decision.