Best Wheels for Subaru WRX STI (VA Chassis)
Rally-inspired and track-ready wheels for the iconic STI
The VA chassis WRX STI (2015-2021) carries on Subaru's rally heritage while delivering track-capable performance from the factory. With its iconic boxer rumble and AWD grip, it deserves wheels that complement its character.
The STI's 5x114.3 bolt pattern and Brembo brakes (STI models) dictate certain fitment requirements. Here are the wheels that work best for this rally legend.
Quick Picks
Our Recommendations
Factory Specs
**STI Factory Wheels:** 18x8.5 +55 (245/40/18) Bolt Pattern: 5x114.3 Center Bore: 56.1mm Brakes: Brembo 4-piston front (STI), standard on WRX **Recommended Aftermarket:** 17x9 +35/+40 (budget track) 18x9.5 +35/+38/+40 (ideal balance) 18x10 +38/+40 (aggressive street) Many STI owners run square setups for simplified tire rotation and balanced handling.
RPF1
EnkeiThe RPF1 is battle-tested on Subarus worldwide. Enkei even supplies OEM wheels to Subaru, so the brand connection runs deep. The 18x9.5 +38 setup is the community favorite: perfect brake clearance, ideal tire fitment, and track-proven durability. Many rally and rallycross drivers run 17x9 +35 for taller sidewalls and better impact resistance on rough surfaces.
Wheel Highlights
- Perfect STI-specific offsets
- Clears Brembo brakes with room
- Proven in rally and track use
- Excellent tire options in both 17" and 18"
TE37
Volk RacingThe TE37 in 18x9.5 +40 is the premium choice for STI owners who want the best. Forged construction saves 2-3 lbs per wheel over RPF1, and the iconic 6-spoke design has rally heritage dating back decades. The +40 offset sits perfectly under STI fenders.
Wheel Highlights
- Maximum weight savings
- Perfect fitment for STI
- Rally motorsport heritage
- Exceptional resale value
Emotion T7R
WORKWORK Emotion wheels bring proper JDM rally aesthetic to the STI. The T7R's 7-spoke design provides excellent brake clearance while the concave face adds visual aggression. Popular in the Subaru community for street builds with rally-inspired style.
Wheel Highlights
- Authentic JDM rally styling
- WORK quality construction
- Good concave in wider widths
- Strong brake clearance
Hypergram
KonigThe budget option that doesn't feel like a compromise. The Hypergram's flow-formed construction offers good value at under $200 per wheel (approximately 18 lbs for 18x8.5, lighter in smaller sizes). The 18x9.5 +35 setup works well for STI but may need minor fender rolling for aggressive tire sizing.
Wheel Highlights
- Exceptional value
- Budget-friendly option
- Flow-formed construction
- Available in 5x114.3
57DR
Gram LightsGram Lights offers quality cast wheels at a price point between budget options and premium forged wheels. The 57DR uses Rays Engineering's advanced machining techniques to create a refined product at $150-200 less per wheel than the forged TE37.
Wheel Highlights
- Cast with advanced machining
- Rays Engineering quality
- Better value than forged options
- Perfect STI offset available
Buying Considerations
**Why Downsize from 18" Factory Wheels:** Many STI owners go to 18" or even 17" for: • Better tire selection and lower costs • More sidewall for rally/rallycross • Reduced rotational mass • Better wheel protection on rough roads
**Offset Considerations:** The STI can handle +35 to +45 offsets in 9.5" width without major modifications. Lower offsets create more aggressive stance but may require fender rolling. Higher offsets (+45+) tuck deep and may need spacers for proper brake clearance.
**Weight Matters for AWD:** The STI's AWD system rotates all four wheels constantly. Saving 4 lbs per wheel (16 lbs total) noticeably improves acceleration and reduces drivetrain stress. Lightweight wheels are especially valuable on AWD cars.
**Winter Wheel Considerations:** Many STI owners run two sets: lightweight summer wheels for track/performance and cheaper heavy wheels for winter. This extends the life of your performance wheels and allows running dedicated winter tires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best wheel size for STI track use?
18x9.5 +38 is the community consensus. It fits 265/35/18 tires (perfect track size), clears Brembos easily, and countless STI track builds prove it works. Some prefer 17x9 +35 for rallycross or rough track surfaces where the extra sidewall helps.
Can I run 17" wheels on a VA STI?
Yes, but brake clearance is tight with the Brembos. You need wheels specifically designed with proper spoke clearance. The RPF1 in 17x9 +35 or +45 is confirmed to fit. Always verify fitment before buying 17" wheels for STI with Brembos.
Do I need hub-centric rings?
The STI has 56.1mm center bore. Most aftermarket wheels use larger bores (typically 73.1mm) and require hub-centric rings to properly center the wheel. Always use hub rings. They're cheap insurance against vibration and ensure proper load distribution.
Square or staggered for STI?
Square setup (same size all around) is standard for AWD cars like the STI. It allows tire rotation, simpler setup, and balanced handling. There's no reason to run staggered on an AWD platform.
What about the limited-edition STI wheels?
Special editions like STI S209 came with BBS wheels from factory. These are collectible but heavy by modern standards. Most performance-focused owners still downsize to lighter aftermarket options for actual track use.
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