2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

Price: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI – Approx. 70,000 €

The wait is finally over. Subaru has released official photos and initial info on the new JDM-spec Impreza WRX STI. Subaru only tells us that the new STI is powered by a 16v 2.0L boxer with a twin-scroll turbo mated to a 6-speed manual. SI-DRIVE, multi-mode Drivers Control Center Differential (DCCD) and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) are also standard.

And with a heavily-revised new 296 bhp turbocharged 2.5 liter ‘boxer’ engine, totally new platform and suspension plus even more advanced symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the World Rally Championship look-alike is sure to satisfy Subaru traditionalists.

At the rear, four exhaust pipes twinned in pairs at either side of the body not only give a distinctive look but reduce exhaust air-flow resistance by 38 per cent, increasing power and reducing noise.

All Imprezas come with four-wheel drive, so traction is never in short supply, but the car doesn’t feel as nimble as the best in the class. The suspension is very good at taking the sting out of bumps, although the body tends to pitch and float over crests in the road.

Comfort With Agility

Rear-seat passengers get plenty of head and leg space, so there’s room for a pair of six-footers to travel comfortably. Don’t attempt to squeeze a third in, though, because the middle seat is narrow and there’s a bulky transmission tunnel to straddle. The boot is shallow and it loses space to the rear wheelarches. It’s also topped by a fabric cover instead of a conventional parcel shelf.

Behind The Wheel

The seat and steering wheel both have extensive two-way adjustment, so it’s easy to get comfortable. Headroom is a little tight up front, though, and the steeply angled windscreen makes you feel a bit hemmed-in. The dashboard layout is simple and clearly marked, so it’s easy to use.

Now, for the new Impreza WRX STI, the DCCD switch also allows the selection of three different types of ‘Auto’ Mode.

1: Auto Mode is selected when the engine is started and covers most road conditions.
2: Auto+ Mode places the emphasis on traction for slippery roads, sharing out the torque more evenly between all four wheels and enhancing straight-line stability.
3: Auto- Mode increases agility by enhancing steering response through less torque-split interference.