Subaru WRX STi: chassis codes and import guide
The Impreza WRX STi is Subaru's turbocharged, all-wheel-drive rally car for the road. US buyers import the Japanese STi versions, which carried specification and power differences from the US-market cars.
What the Subaru WRX STi is
| Chassis | Years | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| GC8 | 1992–2000 | The first-generation WRX STi, including the limited 22B. |
| GDB | 2001–2007 | The "bugeye", "blobeye" and "hawkeye" cars. |
| GRB | 2007–2014 | The wide-body hatch and sedan era. |
| VA | 2014–2021 | The later-generation WRX STi. |
Is the Subaru WRX STi legal to import to the US?
First-generation GC8 STis, built from 1992 to 2000, qualify now under the 25-year rule and clear the EPA age threshold, which applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design. GDB cars cross the line individually: a 2001 build qualifies from 2026, and later cars follow each year.
Date of manufacture controls eligibility, so confirm it on the chassis plate.
Import eligibility under the 25-year rule is set by the date of manufacture, so always check the chassis plate. The 25-year import rule explains how the exemption works and how to confirm it. The EPA age exemption applies only to vehicles in their original configuration, not modified from the manufacturer's original design; confirm current requirements with the EPA's official vehicle-import guidance.
What it costs to land a WRX STi
GC8 STis vary a lot with condition and originality, and the 22B sits in a different league from a standard car. Later cars are priced on their own merits.
Add the exporter fee and Japanese inland transport, ocean freight, marine insurance, US duty and customs charges, a bond and broker, and state taxes and registration to the purchase price.
Boxer engines and their service history deserve a close look, and any older turbo Subaru should carry a maintenance budget.
Ready to look at real cars? Browse Subaru Impreza listings at JDMBUYSELL, a marketplace that specialises in Japanese domestic market vehicles. Use the guide above to work out what you want and what it will take to land it, then compare actual listings.
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Subaru WRX STi: common questions
Is the Subaru WRX STi legal to import to the US?
Yes, once the car is 25 years old by build date. Every GC8 STi qualifies now; GDB cars qualify individually from 2026 onward.
What is a GC8?
It is the chassis code for the first-generation Impreza WRX STi, built from 1992 to 2000. The limited 22B is a GC8 variant.
How much does it cost to import a WRX STi?
It depends on the car's generation, condition and history, plus shipping, duty and state registration. Ask for an itemised landed-cost quote.
General information only — not legal, customs or tax advice. Rules can change. Confirm current requirements with US Customs and Border Protection, NHTSA, the EPA, and your state motor vehicle agency before importing.