Subaru Impreza WRX STI brings hardcore rally-tuned performance to the street.
This iconic all-wheel drive packs a punch with its turbocharged boxer engine and finely tuned chassis.
Legendary Rally Roots——Subaru Impreza WRX STI
Subaru forged its reputation in the World Rally Championship. The turbocharged Impreza became a force on loose surfaces with consecutive constructor titles through the 1990s. STI versions pushed the envelope even further as homologation specials.
Early 2-door variants like the 22B wowed with their widebody stance and huge rear wings. These extroverted designs highlighted the STI’s rally DNA.
Today’s WRX STI retains its rally-derived soul. It continues the tradition of usable power and tenacious grip. Enthusiasts worldwide recognize the STI badge as the pinnacle of Subaru performance.
Turbo Boxer Power
A 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four sits underhood. It supplies a stout 310 horsepower along and 290 lb-ft of torque. The STI hurtles from 0-60 mph in under 5 seconds. Acceleration feels endless thanks to the boxer’s broad torque plateau.
The 6-speed manual gearbox enhances engagement. Shifts snap off with precision. The low-inertia turbo spools up quickly for explosive power delivery. The throaty exhaust note enhances the rally car experience.
Sophisticated AWD System
Subaru’s renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive splits torque 45/55 front-to-rear. This limits understeer while retaining agile turning. The Limited Slip Differential further balances torque distribution side to side.
Vehicle Dynamics Control integrates stability management with the AWD system. Torque vectoring brakes apply subtle counter-yaw forces to tighten lines. Together this technology achieves incredible traction and control.
Dialed In Handling
The STI sets itself apart with rally car sharp handling responses. Stiffer suspension, bushings, and springs heighten reflexes while retaining everyday comfort.
An active center differential continually adapts to conditions. It maintains composed grip whether cruising, cornering, or accelerating. Communicative steering and Brembo brakes inspire confidence behind the wheel.
On backroads the STI delivers tenacious grip and neutral balance. Body roll remains remarkably flat during aggressive transitional maneuvers. The STI feels planted yet nimble, always eager for the next corner.
Purposeful Design Of Subaru Impreza WRX STI’s Touches
Subtle exterior elements nod to the STI’s performance. A functional hood scoop feeds cool air to the turbo intercooler. Quad stainless exhaust tips exit prominently at the rear. A discreet rear spoiler reduces lift at speed.
The cockpit focuses entirely on the drive. Bolstering leather seats surround. Red badging and accents inject flair. Controls place function first with intuitive ergonomics. The flat-bottom steering wheel provides ample room for assertive maneuvers.
Premium materials like soft-touch plastics and metallic trim elevate the cabin ambiance. Despite the performance, the STI remains refined enough for daily commutes.
Attainable Icons
The STI encapsulates Subaru’s racing heritage in an affordable package. Few performance cars blend rally grit with daily drivability so competently. This rare combination keeps used STI values high even decades later.
Still, the WRX STI remains a performance bargain at around $40k new. Behind the wheel, it delivers giant-slaying agility akin to pricier sports cars. The STI consistently overachieves – it’s an iconic driver’s car now just as on day one.
Simply put, no other vehicle offers this level of all-conditions performance at this price. The STI stands tall among AWD icons like the Audi Quattro and Mitsubishi Evo. For enthusiasts seeking confidence-inspiring year-round performance, it’s a veritable legend.
