Subaru introduces BRZ edition that's not an STI

News of a limited-edition Subaru BRZ might draw a logical conclusion that it's the oft-rumored, long-awaited STI version, with more power and a turbocharger and all the raucous driving potential the Impreza WRX STI carries.

Sorry, folks. It's not an STI.

But the BRZ Series.Blue (no, that's not a typo) does have plenty of STI badges to satiate you! The badges are tucked away on the black side skirts, rear diffuser and front lip that add an air of sporting pretension to the unfettered engine. Subaru claims that coefficient of drag has fallen from 0.28 to 0.27 as a result. This will be worth noting the next time you hit up Streets of Willow. The brake calipers are bright red behind 17-inch wheels (genuine STI items) and -- at long last -- the exhaust tips finally fulfill the promise set by the Hot Import Nights-sized bumper cutouts.

Inside is an explosion of blue stitching because something has to live up to the name. The excellent seats get blue leather wrapping the corners, and the steering wheel is accented with blue on top and bottom. Also, the starter button is now an eye-searing red. Take note of that, Febreze fans.

Just 1,000 copies of the Series.Blue, whose AP Style-defying name seems to ape Scion's limited editions, will be available in WR blue pearl or crystal white pearl, 500 examples of each. It will start at $29,490, or approximately four grand over the BRZ's $25,595 base price. (If you're so inclined, you can option a BRZ Limited automatic to within striking distance of the limited edition.)

Expect the Series.Blue to make its way to dealers in July. We wonder how long it'll take to sell them all. There's a record to beat.

By Blake Z. Rong