Subaru reveals new 580-hp WRX STI rallycross fighter

Subaru has revealed its 2015 WRX STI-based rallycross fighter, known by the monicker VT15x.
The racer is the third evolution of an STI-based rallycross car for Subaru Rally Team USA in four years, built through a partnership with Vermont SportsCar.

The VT15x manages to squeeze 580 horsepower out of Subaru’s 2.0-liter boxer engine, with power sent to all four wheels via a six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox. It is said to be capable of hitting 60 mph from a standstill in just two seconds flat.

The development team has also focused on improving weight balance, center-of-gravity, suspension geometry and aerodynamics, all of which contribute to even better handling than the VT14x build.

“The VT15x is almost entirely-new technology. This car is a revolution, not just an evolution,” said Vermont SportsCar team principal Lance Smith. “Using the 2015 WRX STI, we have seen gains in handling and cornering in both our stage rally and rallycross cars; which is a testament to advancements in design from the factory.”

Subaru Rally Team USA will begin its 2015 season at the Red Bull Global Rallycross event in Ft. Lauderdale, before heading to Austin to compete in the X Games Rallycross series. The car will be piloted by Bucky Lasek and Sverre Isachsen, with Travis Pastrana joining at the X Games.