One of the most anticipated performance cars of 2014, the new
generation WRX STI, was unveiled overnight at the North American
International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, U.S.A.
The U.S. specification WRX STI model shown in Detroit features a
turbocharged 2.5-litre Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine, specially
tuned suspension for enhanced rigidity, multi-mode Driver's Control
Centre Differential - and more.
During development, Subaru honed the drivability of the new WRX
STI to perfection, testing it under demanding conditions in several
countries.
As with past generations of WRX STI, testing included ultra-high
speed road drives on Germany's Nürburgring circuit,
known for its harsh conditions.
Subaru has raised the performance bar for body, chassis and
overall engineering - fusing these areas to produce an outstanding
All-Wheel Drive package.
Pricing and specification of Australian WRX STI variants will be
announced in the coming months.
CHASSIS AND BODY
New WRX STI's exclusively sedan body is lighter and more rigid,
integrating extensive chassis reinforcements.
Both body and suspension are stiffened, while optimized
suspension geometry has quickened steering response and raised the
performance limit for cornering.
Multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Active Torque
Vectoring are added, for even more predictable and enjoyable
driving.
Many hours of in-depth suspension tuning have produced a flat,
sport, yet comfortable ride.
Steering is more precise, with a quickened steering gear ratio
and more rigid steering system.
ENGINE
New WRX STI has a 2.5-litre turbocharged Horizontally-Opposed
Boxer engine.
The U.S. specification engine produces an impressive 227
Kilowatts of power at 6000 rpm and 392 Newtonmetres of torque at
4000 rpm.
TRANSMISSION
WRX STI employs a reinforced six-speed manual transmission.
Coupled with short throw shifting, the combination produces a
thrilling drive.
The revised transmission has better tactile feedback, for a
sportier shift feel.
It includes the multi-mode DCCD system, allowing the driver to
freely select centre differential control characteristics,
depending upon road conditions and driver preferences.
SAFETY
WRX STI safety is enhanced in all areas.
While the body is lightened, rigidity is improved and chassis
performance enhanced along with Vehicle Dynamics Control.
According to Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru
vehicles, WRX STI offers the best hazard avoidance performance in
its class, making driving excitement a safe endeavour in most
scenarios.
Underlining passive safety credentials, WRX STI employs more
high tensile steel plating, with strengthened joints of key
structures. While reducing weight, these changes also produce a
stronger body with world-class safety performance in front, rear,
or side collisions.
In addition to extensive use of collision-absorbing structure in
the bonnet and bulkhead, similar materials are added in the side of
the engine compartment, for increased pedestrian protection.
PACKAGING
WRX STI wheelbase is increased 25 mm, aiding rear leg room. This
produces more elbow and shoulder room, without changing total body
width.
The bottom of the A-pillar is extended 200 mm toward the front,
while wing mirrors are mounted on the front door panels and a new
quarter window added. The dashboard and front door window sills are
also lower, for significant improvements in visibility - and sleek
styling.
Front and rear door openings are enlarged, making entry and exit
much easier.
Boot space is expanded and made easier to use, thanks to
fold-down rear seats with a large opening and 60:40 split.
DESIGN
EXTERIOR
WRX STI boasts aggressive yet refined styling.
It features a nose cone design with a dynamic, solid shape,
housing Subaru's classic hexagonal grille.
The new hawk eye headlights pair with the aggressive wide and
low stance for which WRX STI is renowned.
The base of the A-pillar is extended 200 mm forward, while the
C-pillar smoothly transitions into the boot surface, for a flowing
silhouette. Front wing ducts and sharp side sill spoilers show off
WRX STI's sporty nature.
The rear design includes a diffuser-integrated bumper and twin
dual exhausts, emphasizing the low centre of gravity and driving
performance.
Rear combination lights are given a thin shape, highlighting
vehicle width.
A large rear spoiler also enhances aerodynamic performance.
A shark fin radio antenna matches the body and adds more styling
refinement.
New alloy wheels are designed to be more rigid and lighter.
LED low-beam headlights, rear and brake lights, plus
high-mounted brake light, improve fuel efficiency by saving
power.
STI badging features on the front grille and wings.
New colours are WR Blue Pearl and Crystal White Pearl.
INTERIOR
New WRX STI's cockpit includes carbon-type trim panels and
metal-type accents.
The interior has a quality feel and red accents on seats, gear
shift lever and centre instrument panel are exclusive to WRX
STI.
The solid black trim comprises quality materials that are soft
to the touch.
For the first time, WRX STI gets a sporty D-shaped steering
wheel. The grip shape is easy to hold, with a small diameter for
improved response and tactile feedback, making for a more appealing
drive.
The seats are designed for superior support –
and the headrests are embossed with an STI logo.
The gauges use a dual dial layout, 3.5-inch full colour liquid
crystal display and aluminium rings, for improved functionality -
and a quality feel. Red lighting adds to the performance aura,
contrasted with the white needles.
And as another performance symbol, the multi-function display
includes a boost pressure display screen.
MAJOR SPECIFICATIONS (U.S.-ONLY)
Body size (Overall length / width / height):
4595 x 1795 x 1475 mm
Wheelbase: 2650 mm
Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged
Horizontally-Opposed Boxer engine
Displacement: 2457 cc
Maximum output: 227 Kilowatts/ 6000 rpm
Maximum torque: 392 Newtonmetres/ 4000 rpm
Transmission: six-speed manual
Tyre size: 245/40 R18
Seating capacity: Five
For further information, contact:
David Rowley
National Corporate Affairs Manager
Subaru Australia
Telephone: (02) 8892 9853
Mobile: 0418 237 252
Fax: (02) 8892 9121
E-mail: david.rowley@subaru.com.au