Subaru WRX STI breaks own Isle of Man TT lap record (with video)

Subaru of America, Inc. has released “Flat Out: The Full Lap,” the in-car, full lap video of its record setting lap of the Isle of Man TT Course. Mark Higgins broke the lap record two weeks ago driving a new 2015 Subaru WRX STI on the treacherous 59-km course with an average lap speed of 188 kph and a time of 19 minutes and 15 seconds. A video walkaround of the record setting STI is also now on Subaru of America’s YouTube channel.

The new video is the full lap from the driver’s point of view. The lap also includes both car and driver telemetry as well as commentary by Mark Higgins. The new lap record breaks the previous record of 185 kph that was set in 2011 in a 2011 WRX STI.

https://youtu.be/t7gmbQ8KxM4

The car Higgins drove is a stock U.S.-spec 2015 WRX STI, with the exception of an FIA-spec roll-cage, racing seat and harness, fire suppression system and modified springs and dampers to handle the sustained high speeds and changing conditions of the course. The Subaru WRX STI also featured Dunlop Direzza tires and a high decibel straight exhaust for crowd safety. The speed limiter was also removed from the car.

In his previous attempt on the course, Higgins created one of the most memorable race videos when he had a self-described “moment” at the bottom of Bray Hill at 240 kph. The video has received almost 4 million views. After setting the record Higgins stated, “Setting the record was both the most exhilarating and the most frightening thing I have ever done.”