By Mauricio Lezcano / carsntravel.com
For 2015, Subaru has introduced the all-new WRX STI, its iconic performance flagship model, matching the proven 305-horsepower turbocharged BOXER engine and advanced drivetrain to a new, stiffer high-performance chassis and an aerodynamically enhanced wide-body sedan design. Subaru will offer a WRX STI Launch Edition, limited to 1,000 units and exclusively featuring WR Blue paint and gold BBS forged alloy wheels and unique interior trim.
A bolder front design makes the WRX STI look ready to devour the road. The nose-cone configuration combines the grille and bumper cap into one unit ahead of the hood, which for the 2015 model is made from aluminum to reduce weight over the front of the car.
The special hood, fenders, doors and quarters, bumpers, headlights and taillight clusters convey the WRX STI identity. As on previous WRX STI models, a functional hood scoop supplies the intercooler with fresh air, and in the 2015 model it is set more deeply into the hood to provide better forward visibility.
Other new performance-oriented details include fog light surrounds with a carbon fiber-like pattern and front fender vents that feature a mesh screen. A full aerodynamic body package includes the large trunk spoiler that has been a WRX STI signature feature. A rear diffuser, LED taillights and LED center high-mount stop lamp leave a distinctive signature.
Under the hood, the 2015 WRX STI Launch Edition is powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged /intercooled 4-cylinder BOXER engine that employs the Dual Active Valve Control System. The engine, which is exclusive to the WRX STI, produces 305 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.
The engine is based on a specially reinforced semi-closed deck engine block with high-strength cast pistons. A semi-closed deck design provides the same cooling efficiency as an open-deck cylinder block but with the higher strength of a full closed deck. Special reinforcing ribs in the block provide additional strength, and the crankshaft is nitride-hardened. The turbocharger produces a maximum of 14.7 PSI of boost. The WRX STI’s efficient exhaust system emits a distinctive growl through signature quad tailpipes.
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 12.4 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.
Subaru Intelligent Drive powertrain management system allows the driver to tailor the car’s driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes: Intelligent, Sport & 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, for example. 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.
Active Torque Vectoring, a new enhancement of the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control stability and traction control system, can apply brake pressure to the inside front wheel to facilitate more neutral cornering. The VDC system offers yet more driver choices, with three settings: Normal, Traction and Off. The Normal setting provides the highest level of system engagement, utilizing traction control and Vehicle Dynamics Control. The Traction setting is more performance-oriented, employing less-restrictive VDC and disengaging the engine torque-reduction control. The Offsetting disengages the VDC and the traction control functions. Active Torque Vectoring remains engaged for Normal and Traction modes.
The 2015 Subaru WRX STI Launch Edition comes with the highest level of amenities even for this performance flagship model. Standard features include dual-zone automatic climate control and the All-Weather Package. The new standard audio system combines AM/FM stereo with HD Radio, a single-disc in-dash CD player, 6 speakers, MP3/WMA capability, Radio Data Broadcast System, Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, iPod control capability, iTunes Tagging, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, USB port and a 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack.
Built on the standard and lightest WRX STI model, the STI Launch Edition is exclusively equipped with a special interior featuring blue highlights and gets a standard STI Short-Throw Shifter for the 6-speed manual transmission. The Keyless Access & Start system, offered as an option on WRX STI Premium and Limited models, is included as standard with the STI Launch Edition and priced at $37,395. The EPA fuel economy estimates 17 MGP City and 23 MPG Highway.
mlezcano@carsntravel.com
