The refreshed 2018 Subaru WRX and WRX STI, unveiled at the 2017 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, will make a lot of performance enthusiasts happy when they arrive at Subaru dealers across Canada later this year.
Their restyled front fascia includes a more pronounced grille design and a larger lower grille opening. Select models feature new cornering LED headlights that help illuminate curves in nighttime driving.
The 2018 Subaru WRX is motivated by a 268-horsepower, 2.0L turbocharged BOXER engine with direct injection, while its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system uses Active Torque Vectoring. It also comes standard with a 6-speed manual transmission offering enhanced shifter feel and smoother clutch take-up, although a performance-tuned Sport Lineartronic CVT with manual mode is available.
In terms of handling, the new WRX boasts upgraded front and rear suspension tuning for improved stability and ride comfort, while the electric power steering was revised to provide an even smoother, more natural feel.
Riding on 19” wheels instead of the standard 18s (a model first), the 2018 Subaru WRX STI benefits from all that and more including a Driver Controlled Center Differential AWD system and significantly upgraded Brembo brakes. The DCCD system, which previously used a combination of mechanical and electronic center limited-slip differential control, now uses electronic control for quicker and smoother response.
The new WRX STI puts the driver and front passenger in available Recaro seats, while delivering 305 horsepower from a 2.5L turbocharged BOXER engine.
Other highlights of both cars include upgraded interior materials, redesigned interior door grips, faster remote trunk opening, a quieter cabin, a new standard 5.9” high-definition display, and an available 7.0” Subaru STARLINK multimedia unit.
