How to import a Subaru Impreza WRX STI to Brisbane
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GC8/GG9) represents the pinnacle of symmetrical all-wheel-drive performance, defined by its 2.5L EJ255 or EJ207 boxer engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
About the Subaru Impreza WRX STI
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI (GC8/GG9) represents the pinnacle of symmetrical all-wheel-drive performance, defined by its 2.5L EJ255 or EJ207 boxer engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Driving dynamics are characterized by aggressive torque vectoring via the Active Torque Vectoring Differential (ATVD), which allows precise oversteer management at high speeds. Factory options include the Recaro sport seats, Brembo brake upgrades, and the distinctive STI-tuned suspension with Bilstein dampers. Enthusiasts value the car's raw, unfiltered mechanical feedback and the availability of genuine STI performance parts, such as the 2.5L engine swap and ECU tuning. The vehicle’s legacy is cemented by its rally heritage and the iconic blue and red badging, offering a tangible connection to Subaru’s motorsport history while maintaining a robust, repairable mechanical architecture that remains popular in the JDM import market for its balance of power and drivability.
Why import the Subaru Impreza WRX STI to Brisbane & Queensland?
AI-generated insights
The symmetrical all-wheel-drive system with the Active Torque Vectoring Differential (ATVD) provides exceptional traction and allows for controllable oversteer, making it highly capable on both track and wet road surfaces.
The EJ25 engine block is cast iron, offering superior durability and heat resistance compared to aluminum blocks, which facilitates long-term reliability and supports significant power upgrades with minimal risk of block failure.
The 5-speed manual transmission is robust and widely available, with a simple synchro design that is easy to service and upgrade, ensuring long-term drivability and ease of maintenance for high-mileage examples.
Inspection watchouts & mechanical notes
- Check for head gasket failure, a known issue with EJ25 engines, by inspecting for white residue in the oil filler cap or coolant, and verifying that the engine has not been overheated, which can warp the aluminum head.
- Inspect the subframe and rear suspension mounting points for rust, as these areas are prone to corrosion in older JDM models, which can compromise structural integrity and cause excessive noise or vibration.
- Verify the condition of the CVT or manual transmission fluid and check for leaks around the transfer case, as fluid contamination or low levels can lead to premature wear and costly drivetrain failures.
Japanese auction prices for the Subaru Impreza WRX STI
From 320 Japanese auction results for 2007–2014 models. Prices in Japan are FOB: the auction price plus the Japanese-side costs to the port. Landed estimates at ¥110.46 per A$1; past results, not a quote.
- Median price in Japan
- ¥1,147,000
- about $10,384 at today's rate
- Typical range
- ¥857,000 – ¥1,582,000
- the middle half of results
- Estimated landed
- about $17,984
- typically $15,358 – $21,922
- Sold a month in Japan
- about 24
- at the Japanese auctions
| Model year | Results | Median in Japan | Est. landed (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 19 | ¥1,768,000 | ~$23,606 |
| 2013 | 26 | ¥1,905,000 | ~$24,846 |
| 2012 | 44 | ¥1,405,000 | ~$20,320 |
| 2011 | 37 | ¥1,260,000 | ~$19,007 |
| 2010 | 51 | ¥1,293,000 | ~$19,306 |
| 2009 | 34 | ¥1,063,000 | ~$17,223 |
| 2008 | 72 | ¥862,000 | ~$15,404 |
| 2007 | 37 | ¥852,000 | ~$15,313 |
| Year / variant | Km | Grade | Price in Japan | Est. landed (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 IMPREZA 4WD STI SPECIFICATION C · 2,000cc · MT | 44,000 km | 4 | ¥2,900,000 | ~$33,854 |
| 2014 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 104,000 km | 4 | ¥1,768,000 | ~$23,606 |
| 2014 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 181,000 km | R | ¥825,000 | ~$15,069 |
| 2013 IMPREZA 4WD TS TYPE RA NBR · 2,000cc · MT | 87,000 km | 4 | ¥3,137,000 | ~$35,999 |
| 2013 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 98,000 km | 3.5 | ¥1,914,000 | ~$24,928 |
| 2013 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 207,000 km | R | ¥870,000 | ~$15,476 |
| 2012 IMPREZA S206 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 30,000 km | RA | ¥3,311,000 | ~$37,575 |
| 2012 IMPREZA 4WD TURBO STI SPECIFICATION C · 2,000cc · MT | 91,000 km | R | ¥1,421,000 | ~$20,464 |
| 2012 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 200,000 km | RA | ¥655,000 | ~$13,530 |
| 2011 IMPREZA WRX STI 4WD · 2,000cc · MT | 52,000 km | 4 | ¥2,427,000 | ~$29,572 |
| 2011 IMPREZA 4WD STI · 2,000cc · MT | 107,000 km | 4 | ¥1,260,000 | ~$19,007 |
| 2011 IMPREZA 4WD STI · 2,000cc · MT | 209,000 km | R | ¥830,000 | ~$15,114 |
Estimated landed cost breakdown (Brisbane, QLD)
- Expected auction hammer & export docs
- $7,758 – $14,322 AUD (typical)
- Shipping (Japan to Brisbane)
- $4,000 AUD
- Port to dealer transport
- $250 AUD
- Compliance & roadworthy
- $1,500 AUD
- Rego & stamp duty (approx.)
- $350 AUD
- Import service fee
- $1,500 AUD
- Est. total drive-away
- $15,358 – $21,922 AUD
At today's rate of ¥110.46 per A$1: the same estimate as the import calculator. Japanese-built cars are generally duty-free under JAEPA. An estimate, not a quote.
Approved SEVS register variants
From the federal ROVER register of published approvals (checked 31/08/2026).
| Chassis code | Variant / spec | Build range | SEV approval |
|---|---|---|---|
| GRF | WRX STi A-Line | 02/2009 – 02/2010 | SEV-000581 |
| GDB | GDB Series Subaru Impreza WRX STi. | 01/2005 – 05/2007 | SEV-000708 |
| GVB/GRB | ALL | 10/2007 – 08/2014 | SEV-000954 |
| GDA/GGA | ALL | 07/2005 – 07/2007 | SEV-000999 |
| VAB | STi variants with 2.0 litre turbocharged EJ20 motor only | 07/2014 – 12/2021 | SEV-001017 |
Browse other Japanese vehicle import guides
Important pricing and vehicle availability disclaimer
The figures, auction results, specifications and images on this page are for information and feasibility guidance only. They are historical Japanese auction data, compliance estimates and general market benchmarks. Unless a car is marked as in stock at CarStrike, the vehicles described here are custom import sourcing possibilities from licensed Japanese vehicle auctions. Final drive-away costs vary with the exchange rate (JPY/AUD), the hammer price, the condition grade and roadworthy requirements.
