Hello,
We are already thinking about shocks, coilovers, springs, swaybars, bushings, brake ducts, etc. for this car. We've got lots of experience with the Subaru Impreza platform, though this is a different ballgame. Also plenty of experience with Mitsubishi EVO, Porsche, and BMW.
We've got good relationships with Ohlins, Bilstein, AST, KW, Whiteline, JRZ, and also design a few of our own parts. Can't wait to bring high quality parts to this car.
If the standard shocks are made by Showa, that's a pretty good thing. The 2008+ STI switched to Showa from KYB and there was a nice improvement in valving quality to go with it. From the sound of it they've paid more attention to valving than usual. Not as good as Bilsteins but a big step up from the usual OEM japanese stuff. Plenty left on the table for a good well designed spring to upgrade to (if done correctly). We'll have them dyno tested as soon as it's possible. This spring is going to be great! At least 2 of us in the office really want this car.
EDIT: Sachs isn't bad either....they make a wide range of stuff though. Some very very high end stuff and some simple OEM type replacements. I feel pretty confident the standard shocks will be impressive for an OEM (though maybe not Koni Yellow or Bilstein Sport good).
- Andrew