Subaru introduces the Impreza WRX STI and Cup

Subaru invited us last Tuesday to an informal event to present the new releases for this new year. It was their second meeting, where most of the guests were bloggers, and where just 5 short minutes were enough to give us a broad overview of the new releases, which we later got to know in detail thanks to their experts, among whom were Xevi Pons, the brand’s official rally driver, Guillermo Medina, press chief, and Fernando Azaola, product manager.

First, the most anticipated news: the Impreza WRX STI with 300 CV of power and its imposing name, standing for Subaru Technica International, which, together with the formidable permanent all-wheel drive AWD, gives this sports car a performance and handling that many rivals dream of and will continue to dream of for years.

Its 2.5-litre engine sets it apart like none of the models of similar power, and above all it confirms its origins in its purpose: rallying. The power is ultimately obtained from such a small block through the use of a turbo, an intercooler and an advanced valve control system. It is worth noting that this model uses SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive), which allows the driver to select different driving modes depending on which best suits their preferences or situation.

There is no doubt that handling will be one of the aspects that stands out most in this new model. To begin with, its five-door body has changed compared to its predecessor: the three-box saloon no longer exists, which makes it a compact. However, the wheelbase is 100 mm longer than the previous model, and the track width has increased by 40 mm (front) and 45 mm (rear). The 6 speeds of the manual gearbox transmit power to a full-time all-wheel drive system (the AWD mentioned above), in which two LSD limited-slip differentials mediate to avoid even the slightest loss of power at all times. Front suspension with inverted struts, rear double wishbones, and Brembo brakes complete the package.

What caught our attention most were the four exhaust pipes, paired on each side, and the 245/40 R18 wheels (not standard), accompanied by cast aluminium alloy rims. And that is not all, because once inside the cabin, the enveloping seat gives the feeling of holding us firmly in place without moving a single millimetre in the most sporting conditions. If we ever get the chance to test it, we will tell you about the experience.

Second, an Impreza Cup suitable for the Impreza cup to be held this year. Like the other attendees, we were struck by its brand-new smell. Although we cannot know many details about it, we do know that its engine capacity is slightly smaller than the STI’s, 2 litres, and its price is 60,000 euros. We suggested to the product manager the possibility of letting us ride along, even as passengers, to experience the feeling, although, as you can imagine, that is really difficult.

Finally, a diesel engine, called the Boxer Diesel, developed entirely by the brand, reaching a maximum power of 150 CV and a torque of 350 Nm. Why boxer? There are several reasons, of which three stand out: low vibration levels, a low centre of gravity and a high degree of rigidity. Of course, the sporting character of this car could not go unnoticed, since it also plays a major role in the product’s profile. In any case, being the first horizontally opposed diesel engine designed anywhere in the world for a passenger vehicle is, I think, already a good reason to take notice of it. Paired with a 5-speed manual transmission, this engine also has low pollutant emission levels that comply with EURO 4 environmental regulations. If it has convinced you as much as it has me, know that for now it will be fitted to both the Subaru Legacy and the Outback.

Finally, thanks to Esteban Viso for lending his camera so we could bring you some photographs of the event, which, due to oversight and logistical problems, would not have been possible without his help.

Impreza WRX Sti | Specifications
Boxer Diesel | Specifications, technical details
Photos | Javi Vicente