By Mauricio Lezcano / carsNtravel.com
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI continues into 2013 with its ultimate performance hardware and attitude fully intact, the 2013 WRX STI delivers a thrilling driving experience with its 305-horsepower turbocharged BOXER engine, 6-speed manual transmission and exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The WRX STI is also equipped with Subaru Intelligent Drive and a Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system, the latter featuring a track performance-optimized mode.
Exclusive to the WRX STI, the Brembo Performance Brake System uses ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution. Front discs measure 13.0 inches in diameter and use 4-piston calipers; the 12.6 in. rear discs use 2-piston calipers. Taking input from a lateral g-sensor, a steering angle sensor, a yaw sensor and a brake pressure sensor, Super Sport ABS can control the braking forces at each rear wheel independently, which optimizes braking ability during hard cornering to help reduce understeer.
Under the hood the WRX STI is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged/intercooled 4-cylinder BOXER engine, with Dual Active Valve Control System. The engine produces 305 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.
Subaru Intelligent Drive technology allows the driver to tailor the car’s driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes, Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp, using a rotary dial on the center console. SI-DRIVE alters vehicle performance characteristics by regulating the Engine Control Module and by fine-tuning the Electronic Throttle Control system.
With Intelligent mode selected, SI-DRIVE provides a more relaxed throttle response curve, making it useful for commuting in traffic. Sport mode provides quick throttle responses and powerful, linear acceleration, making it ideal for everyday sporty driving. In Sport Sharp mode, SI-DRIVE modifies the engine’s electronic throttle mapping to deliver super quick throttle response and put down the power sooner.
WRX STI is equipped with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The system employs planetary type differential gears with a nominal 41:59 torque split. A mechanical limited-slip type center differential augments an electronically controlled center differential to enhance torque transfer performance.
The DCCD AWD system features three automatic modes. Auto mode provides the best all-around performance for most drivers and circumstances, varying the front/rear torque distribution automatically via the limited-slip type differential in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage.
For driving on slippery surfaces, such as gravel or snow, the Auto (+) setting tightens the LSD. In manual mode, DCCD offers six levels of center differential locking, allowing the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution to optimize AWD performance for varying driving conditions.
WRX STI’s sport-oriented cockpit features performance-design front seats that integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure. The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather-wrapped design embossed with the STI logo in its center. The wheel features control switches for Bluetooth hands-free phone function. Standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers include the driver’s footrest. The instrument panel electroluminescent gauges use indicator needles that sweep the gauge faces upon engine startup.
The standard audio system features an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and six speakers; a 3.5mm auxiliary input jack; Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming; iPod control capability; a USB port and XM/SIRIUS Satellite Radio capability. Steering wheel controls for the audio system cruise control and Bluetooth are standard.
All Subaru models utilize the proven Subaru Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones, and all feature standard front seat side pelvis/torso airbags and side-curtain airbags.
Electronic Brake-force Distribution provides precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Brake Assist analyzes the force and stroke on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking, also activating the ABS system early if needed.
My driving impression of the WRX STI, it’s a performance vehicle with crisp handling response, overall design is pleasant, the compact layout of the double-wishbone rear suspension helps to minimize intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wide and deep luggage compartment.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price starts at $37,645.00, the one I drove included the GPS Navigation with LCD touch screen, HD radio, XM satellite radio and NavTraffic , it came in at $39,415.00. The EPA fuel economy estimates 17 MGP City and 23 MPG Highway. mlezcano@carsntravel.com
