Performance car fans around the country have surely been rejoicing at the news that Subaru is to bring back its fantastic WRX STI – just a year after the last model was sold here.
It’s back! The iconic Subaru WRX STI
The new model, which has been extensively revamped, will be in UK showrooms from May and will be around £4,000 cheaper than its predecessor.
With on the road prices starting at £28,995 there’s no doubt that this iconic vehicle will be extremely popular.
Subaru reinvent an old favourite
The new Subaru WRX STI was unveiled at the Detroit motor show and is based on the current WRX saloon but with some big differences.
The main one being that Subaru has worked hard to develop a car that is perfect to drive under a wide range of conditions and there’s been extensive testing of the car’s AWD performance at speed on the Nürburgring circuit in Germany.
Under the bonnet of the Subaru WRX STI is a 2.5 litre turbocharged engine which produces 305hp and 290lb/ft of torque and engineers have also reinforced the six-speed gearbox so that the gear change is now shorter and slicker with a sporty feel.
Lease the Subaru WRX STI
Drivers of the Subaru WRX STI will also find that the AWD now has the latest in vehicle dynamics control and active torque vectoring to help keep control and the driver engaged. The damper and spring rates have been retuned to help create a more compliant ride and cut down on body roll.
Subaru say that the car is more fuel-efficient than previously, helped by electronic power steering which helps bring about a ‘direct’ feel and response. The brakes have also been uprated.
With a longer wheelbase, there’s more legroom in the rear for passengers as well as more elbow and shoulder room inside the cabin. There’s also improved visibility all-around because the A-pillars have been shifted forwards slightly.
Apart from a slightly larger boot, Subaru has gone to some trouble to improve the quality of the interior materials for the WRX STI including a new D-shaped steering wheel, new dials and metal trim which makes it look more upmarket and creates a sporty feel.
Anyone buying or leasing the Subaru WRX STI in the UK will find that there’s a decent level of kit and exterior changes include LED lighting for the headlights, break and tail lights as well as a diffuser integrated bumper and twin dual mufflers.
Because of the demand and interest in the new vehicle, Subaru is restricting numbers for sale.