As for the rest of the exterior styling, the STI is a carbon copy of the new Impreza, except for the cool aerokit and the 18-inch wheels -- two features that are exclusive to this ultra-high performance Subaru.
In terms of color schemes, Subaru wisely kept the recipe that made the STI famous: Rally Blue paint and golden alloys. Interestingly, the automaker chose to offer three additional colors based on the feedback from enthusiasts on an STI-dedicated website. Grey, White and Silver will be available in Canada. The U.S. market will also get Red after the request from STI fans.
An affordable rocket
Styling is only part of the STI equation, though; performance is another. Subaru's 2.5L turbocharged boxer engine continues to unleash its fury under the hood. For 2008, expect 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. All models come with a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission that proves efficient and capable in every situation. Of course, the automaker's highly-acclaimed all-wheel drive technology is also in the mix.
The STI further stands out thanks to a host of driver-oriented systems. There's the good old on-demand center differential that allows you to adjust the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. The standard split is 41/59 and you can maximize performance and efficiency with the following modes: Intelligent (for highway cruising), Sport (for spirited driving on byroads) and Sport Plus (for aggressive driving). On top of that are six presettings that can be manually selected by the driver to benefit from superior handling.
On the braking front, the STI is equipped with a Brembo high-performance system consisting of four ventilated discs and oversized rear callipers. The inverted-strut front suspension and locking differentials complete the technical portfolio of this Subaru.
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| From a visual standpoint, the STI cannot deny its Impreza ties. |
In terms of color schemes, Subaru wisely kept the recipe that made the STI famous: Rally Blue paint and golden alloys. Interestingly, the automaker chose to offer three additional colors based on the feedback from enthusiasts on an STI-dedicated website. Grey, White and Silver will be available in Canada. The U.S. market will also get Red after the request from STI fans.
An affordable rocket
Styling is only part of the STI equation, though; performance is another. Subaru's 2.5L turbocharged boxer engine continues to unleash its fury under the hood. For 2008, expect 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. All models come with a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission that proves efficient and capable in every situation. Of course, the automaker's highly-acclaimed all-wheel drive technology is also in the mix.
The STI further stands out thanks to a host of driver-oriented systems. There's the good old on-demand center differential that allows you to adjust the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. The standard split is 41/59 and you can maximize performance and efficiency with the following modes: Intelligent (for highway cruising), Sport (for spirited driving on byroads) and Sport Plus (for aggressive driving). On top of that are six presettings that can be manually selected by the driver to benefit from superior handling.
On the braking front, the STI is equipped with a Brembo high-performance system consisting of four ventilated discs and oversized rear callipers. The inverted-strut front suspension and locking differentials complete the technical portfolio of this Subaru.
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| The golden alloy wheels and Rally Blue paint are once again a trademark of the STI. |