Road Test Special Report: Subaru WRX STI Ride & Drive Event Auto Road Test Features / Auto News Date: Sep 12, 2008 - 06:34 AM |
 PaddockTalk was one of only a few media outlets invited to the official Ride & Drive Event of the 2008 Subaru WRX STI. I got the email just a few days before the launch asking if I wanted to attend the event. I gave it a consideration for all of 3 seconds and responded with an emphatic - YES! Usually a press launch is a basic introduction to a new vehicle followed by a relatively short pre-determined road trip lasting of roughly 30 minutes with a change of driver at the halfway point. I’d never been to a Subaru launch before, so that’s what I showed up expecting. I also arrived at the event immediately after picking up a Toyota hybrid that I’d scheduled for a two-week summer road trip. Talk about a contrast in vehicles. One is a compact full-blown rally car built for terrorizing the general populace, and the other is a mid-sized 4-door sedan designed for comfort and maximum fuel efficiency. Unlike other manufacturers, Subaru gave us a brief introduction to the all-singing all-dancing WRX STI and then let us loose on public roads on a pre-determined route lasting just over 2 hours! After that we had to drive through some pylons in a parking lot to get a truer (as if we needed it) sense of the cars handling in tight circles. We were paired up two journalists to a car, but three of them didn’t bother to show up – fools! Going from a less-than-sporty Toyota Camry hybrid into the WRX was a bit of an eye opener. With instant response from the slightest move of the gas pedal it was just a matter of hanging on for the ride! With a base price of $34,995 U.S./ $44,995 Cdn, the WRX STI is only available with a 6-speed close ratio manual transmission and of course comes with the Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system that includes a driver controlled center differential and a Helical-type limited-slip on the front along with TORSEN® limited-slip for the rear differential. Also included in its bag of tricks is the hydraulically operated, dry single plate disc clutch that also includes a Hill Holder system – ideal for those living in hilly environments like San Francisco. It comes fully-loaded including BBS wheels and a Navigation system in Canada, but both are optional ($3,800) in the U.S.. Uncompromising performance. Full stop. According to Subaru, the 2008 Impreza WRX STI has been designed to set the standard that all other compact performance cars are to be judged by. With a new look courtesy of an ultra-wide stance, blistered fenders, 18-inch wheels and a quad-tipped exhaust system, it stands out from the regular-flavored Impreza. Equally stunning acceleration from the 2.5L turbocharged “boxer” 4-cylinder engine, that now features a Dual Active Valve Control System and SI-DRIVE for more efficiency and even better performance. With this kind of power under the right foot, it's imperative that the driver has all the tools available to ensure precise control at all times and under all conditions. To that end the WRX STI has the undeniable performance advantage of Subaru’s symmetrical full-time AWD system, aided and abetted by the brand new multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) to customize torque transfer front-to-rear and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system to further personalize the driving experience.  The rally-bred 4-wheel fully independent High performance STI sport-tuned suspension system comprises of a new double wishbone rear suspension, inverted front struts and numerous other suspension geometry changes to expertly absorb imperfections in the road. A new wider track and shorter rear overhang are designed to help you carve through turns with greater ease. Handling is absolutely incredible while bombing through the twisty back roads on our route (way WAY above the speed limit) and yet it is equally civilized during freeway driving. What's more, with a slick new interior, a navigation system and an outstanding audio system, the new WRX STI will take desire to a whole new level. Two minutes behind the wheel and you’ll be trying to figure out how to get a reasonable trade-in for your wife for this one!!! As impressive as the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is on paper, it's even more so in real life. Still, the statistics are worth noting: a high-performance turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque (70% of it available between 2,000 and 7,000 rpm). Subaru estimate a 0-100 km/h time of just 4.9 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. Unfortunately, I didn’t get an opportunity to hook up my accelerometer, so I can’t verify that personally. Everything about the new WRX STI is designed for increased performance and a more rewarding driving experience. The new 2.5-litre Subaru boxer engine features a larger and more efficient intercooler, as well as a more advanced and powerful high-boost turbocharger for greater output. The engine's Dual Active Valve Control System also promotes improved combustion and exhaust performance, while the transverse-mounted exhaust pipe and quad-tipped tail pipes help increase power output even more. It all makes for a roller coaster thrill ride that doesn’t kill you at the pumps. Stopping power is provided using a Brembo high performance brake system (with STI logo’s) including Subaru’s Super Sport ABS 4-channel/4-sensor/4-wheel and g-load sensor. Added to that you also get Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The front brakes are four piston Ventilated discs (326 x 30 mm), while the rear has dual piston calipers Ventilated discs (316 x 20 mm). There are plenty of small storage spaces in the Impreza WRX STI to stash your gadgets, including front door compartments, passenger seatback pockets, an armrest console and a red illuminated tray in the centre console. The WRX STI's 60/40-split folding rear seats offer added flexibility, allowing you to take full advantage of its spacious cargo area.  I found the seats to be just about as perfect as is possible without the 100 multi-way adjustments you sometimes get in cars. The Alcantara (man-made suede) seats keep you well planted in the event you want to take a corner a lot faster than you probably should. The steering wheel is nice and thick and positioned so perfectly that you don’t even care that it’s not telescopic adjustable. Our pre-planned trip started off with a 10 minute run on the freeway, followed by perfectly chosen back roads that were exceptional for putting the WRX STI through its paces. From long straight two-lane roads to tight, almost 180 degree uphill climbs - we did it all. The instant power combined with the tremendous stopping power of the brakes instilled more and more confidence as the minutes rolled by. At the half way point I had to reluctantly hand over the driver’s seat and let my fellow journalist take the reins for the remainder of the trip. Although I anticipated a loss of fun, it wasn’t quite so bad in the front passenger seat. We still had a lot of fun, taking very similar type roads for my accomplice to get a feel for the car. Acting as a navigator was new for me, but even being in the passenger seat was fun as my pilot gained confidence and pushed the WRX STI faster and faster. All too soon the test period was over and we had to hand the keys back to the folks at Subaru. Although we only got a brief experience behind the wheel of the WRX, one thing was very clear: we couldn’t have pushed the car this much in a regular week of driving the car. We also could never have appreciated the perfect balance and power that the car delivered - unless we could find a similar “track” to take it on.  Unfortunately, because the Impreza WRX STI is in such demand, it’s doubtful that I’ll get my hands on one in the immediate future for a full, week-long road test, so the two hours will have to suffice for now. All I can say is: this is one very tough car to beat for all round quality and value. It’s now in my top three or four favorite cars – all of the others are more expensive. Warranty: New Vehicle Limited Warranty (36 month/60,000 km) This warranty covers basic and major components for 36 months or 60,000 km. Major Component Warranty (60 month/100,000 km) This warranty continues to cover major components to 60 months or 100,000 km. Road side assistance is included for 3 years. For more details and options go to: www.Subaru.com or www.Subaru.ca By The Numbers… Pricing for the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Base Price: $34,995 [$44,995 Cdn] As tested: $38,795 [$44,995 Cdn] Fuel Consumption: [Premium fuel] The 6-speed manual is rated at 17 mpg [12.2 L/100 kms] City, and 23 mpg [8.7 L/100 kms] Highway. + PLUSES: Blindingly fast Extremely quiet Very comfortable seats Fun and good fuel economy - MINUSES: Zero Immediate Competition: Mitsubishi Lancer Evo, MAZDASPEED3 Interior 10 - Quality 10 - Noise, Vibration & Harshness (NVH) 10 - Cargo Area/Trunk Space 10 - Special Features (SatNav/Heated Seats/ Sunroof, etc) Ergonomics 10 - Ease of Entry/Exit 10 - Front Roominess 10 - Rear Roominess 10 - Driving Position/Controls Exterior 10 - Drool Factor 10 - Fit & Finish Performance 10 - Engine 10 - Transmission 10 - Ride & Handling Ownership Value 10 - Bang for the $$ 10 - Fuel Economy 150 Total / 150  THE STATS & DETAILS FROM SUBARU Engine: 2.5L Dual Overhead Cam (DOHC), 16-valve, horizontally-opposed, 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER high performance engine with high boost turbocharger and STI large type intercooler, Electronic Throttle Control and Dual Active Valve Control System and Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) engine management system. Power: 305 hp @ 6,000 rpm Torque: 290 lb-ft @ 4,000 rpm Emissions: Meets Low Emission Vehicle (LEV2) standards Suspension: Newly developed for this peak performing Subaru, the highly rigid MacPherson inverted KYBT strut suspension incorporates technology developed from years of punishment in the FIA World Rally Championship. The wide cast aluminum front arms give a sturdy feel that manages to reduce vibration and increase comfort when driving over imperfections in the road. The newly-designed rear sub-frame is perfectly complemented by the technically advanced double wishbone rear suspension. This new design better enables the tires to maintain a perpendicular angle with the road and also promotes a quieter, smoother and more comfortable driving experience. Bonus points: increased storage space in the back because suspension components no longer encroach into the cargo area. Interior Features: From its numerous driver-pleasing standard features to its surprising level of sheer comfort, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI has been carefully designed and developed to eliminate any sense of compromise. The pure performance driver will appreciate the perfect ergonomics, while the sophisticated owner will love the standard navigation system, SIRIUS ®Satellite Radio, and the high-quality feel of the leather and Alcantara® rally sport seats. The standard AM/FM/MP3/WMA premium audio system includes SIRIUS® Satellite Radio, Audyssey MultEQT audio enhancement features integrated steering wheel controls for the audio system and cruise control and auxiliary audio/video input, this system helps create the perfect soundtrack to any trip. The WRX STI features a GPS DVD-based navigation with colour, touch screen display that also incorporates a front dash integrated DVD entertainment system with 7" tilt adjustable screen and digital sound. The front rally-type sport seats (Anthracite Black Leather/Smoke Grey Alcantara) provide full side and shoulder support to help prevent fatigue while driving and hug you while you hug the corners. Added bonus: the front seats are heated. Additional standard features include: cruise control; automatic climate control; power windows and locks with separate door and cargo access; telescopic steering wheel; Electroluminescent gauges and door-integrated cup holders in addition to the ones on the center console. The new face of a legend From its appearance alone, it's clear that the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI means business. Based on the car that will challenge for the World Rally Championship title in 2008, the road-going WRX STI features muscular lines, from its low and aggressive nose, to its wide fenders and large rear roof spoiler. The spoiler, underbody diffuser and ground effects combine to create tremendous aerodynamic advantages. The HID headlights provide superior visibility at all times. And the performance tires mounted on ultra-light BBS wheels offer incredible grip. The large rear roof spoiler with integrated brake light is both stylish and functional, providing excellent levels of downforce at high speeds. Available in Gold or Silver (dependent on exterior colour), these exclusive 18" BBS forged aluminum alloy wheels are designed to handle the increased stresses of high-performance driving - and look great at the same time. You will truly appreciate the heated side mirrors with integrated LED turn signals during cold weather or when visibility is poor. The stylish exhaust system is further evidence of the purebred nature of this performance car. The quad-tipped exhaust looks great and helps improves engine performance by reducing backflow. The Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights provide superior illumination and improved road coverage in all lighting and weather conditions. Additional standard features: Underbody rear aerodynamics; Black stainless steel and mesh type front grille; Integrated aerodynamics side ground effects; Sport-type front bumper with cooling ducts; Functional hood scoop Color Choices: Dark Grey Metallic with Silver BBS Wheels; Aspen White with Gold BBS Wheels; Midnight Blue Pearl with Silver BBS Wheels; Obsidian Black Pearl with Gold BBS Wheels; Spark Silver Metallic with Silver BBS Wheels; World Rally Blue Pearl with Gold BBS Wheels Copyright © 2008 by Iain Shankland - ishankland@gmail.com This review may NOT be used in whole or in part in any way whatsoever without the written consent of the author. |
|
This article comes from PaddockTalk http://paddocktalk.com/news/html/ The URL for this story is: http://paddocktalk.com/news/html/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=94152 |