The 2015 WRX STi has just had the wraps pulled off of it at the Detroit Auto Show, and this is all the information that you need to know about it before making a decision on whether or not to put a deposit down in April.
The STi is powered by the "legendary" 305-horsepower, 290-lb torque, 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine that seems to be the same as the outgoing model. There seem to be no improvements, including the lack of direct injection. That means that there are absolutely no improvements in gas mileage, and it will remain at the 17 city and 23 highway mark. Also, because the new STi is said to be heavier, it will most likely suffer in straight line performance, even though Subaru claims that it has the best power-to-weight ratio in its class.
The new STi is built on a stronger chassis, which employs the use of the stiffening elements in key locations, resulting in 16% less body roll. It also employs the use of a new Active Torque Vectoring system, coupled with the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive. As is customary with the STi, Brembo brakes will provide the stopping power.
Like the outgoing model, it employs the use of the a 6-speed manual gearbox, which has been specially reinforced. Power is sent to the wheels in regards to the DCCD that lets the driver control how much power is going to the wheels. An improved steering ratio of 13.0:1 will also add to the overall handling of this generation STi.
The interior is seeing large improvements over the outgoing model. The cabin is roomier and the design offers more visibility. The flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel integrates the driving experience with the Bluetooth and audio systems through controls that are mounted on each side. Subaru has also added a 3.5 inch LCD screen that displays various information including oil levels, washer fluid level, and selected gear. There is also a 4.3 inch LED screen that displays information on vehicle function that includes rear view camera access, boost level, climate control, VDC, Bluetooth, and audio. It is also able to remind the driver of scheduled maintenance.
The climate-control is dual-zone and an All Weather Package is standard. This includes heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer. The standard radio offers HD Radio, a single-disc CD player, MP3/WMA capability, Radio Data Broadcast System, Bluetooth calling and streaming, iPod connectivity, available XM radio, USB, and auxiliary audio which radiate through 6 available speakers. A touch-screen navigation is also available, featuring a 6.1 inch LCD screen with voice control. The Limited model will feature leather trimmed upholstery, a power driver seat, Harman/Kardon audio, and a moonroof.
All this amounts to "the best handling, best performing WRX STi. Ever."
A Launch Edition of the STi will also be available in World Rally Blue Pearl. It will feature a gold BBS wheel package and an STi short throw shifter. There will be a limited run of these cars, with only 1000 units being made and a 3 month availability.
They will hit dealerships in April. Pricing is not set yet, but it will be in line with the outgoing model.
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