Subaru WRX STI TRAX concept for SEMA 2009


Subaru has unveiled a 400 horsepower WRX STI with snow tracks at the SEMA Motor Show.

Based on a rally-prepped 2009 WRX STI, the TRAX was built by Vermont SportsCar for SRT USA driver Ken Block. Despite the Mattracks rubber track system, the car is virtually identical to Block's #43 SRT USA competition STI.

Vermont SportsCar started with a stock Impreza WRX STI and then gutted the interior, "lightened the shell and then fully seam-welded it for added strength", and installed a multipoint steel roll cage. After this was completed, the company added RECARO SPA ProRacer competition sport seats, carbon fiber door panels, and an onboard fire suppression system. Other goodies include a Yakima FatCat 4 Snowboard Rack, a Yakima Landing Pad rack base, and DC Shoes XFB-C Snowboards.

Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine (with a MOTEC M800 ECU) that produces approximately 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Besides the enhanced engine, Vermont installed a KAPS five-speed close-ratio 'dog-engagement' gearbox, a Subaru programmable DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) all-wheel drive system, custom machined hubs, and Group N competition rally dampers by EXE-TC.

The TRAX also comes with a custom carbon fiber sleigh, which can accommodate four passengers. Riding on steel skis and a torsion bar suspension, the sleigh boasts heated leather RECARO seats, a marine-grade Alpine stereo system, LED lighting, and carbon fiber trim.

Source: Subaru