Video: Subiesport Publisher, Ryan Douthit, testing the new 2008 STI at Laguna Seca.
With the launch of the all new base-model Impreza and WRX behind us comes the release of the long-anticipated 2008 WRX STI. While we must remain mute on the actual driving impressions of the new STI for now, what we can tell you is what lies underneath the bonnet and in the guts of the new car.
While the general layout of the car is unchanged from the turbocharged 2.5-liter, AWD, 6-speed rally monster of the past; the new car has all new electronics, differential controls as well as stability control and traction control. These last two items are new for the Impreza line, with the basic Impreza having less complex versions found in the STI.
Power out is increased bumping up from 293 bhp to 305 bhp and 290 lb/ft of torque. While the turbo is more or less unchanged it has revised housings. Peak horsepower comes at 6,000 rpm while peak torque is realized at 4,000 rpm. Peak boost pressure is held to 14.7 psi, an indication of the kind of power the new car will be able to make with mild tweaking. The engine itself has been revised slightly to include AVCS on both the exhaust and intake cams but is otherwise the same semi-closed deck, all aluminum block from the previous car.
The braking system has also been revised to give better braking feel and performance. Again, big Brembo brakes are standard equipment. Also, the ABS system has been reprogrammed to be a bit smarter to enhance performance driving. The brake booster has been redesigned to help with brake feel.
Other small changes include the return of the aluminum alloy hood, which feeds the traditional Subaru-style top mount intercooler. This unit, while larger than that of the previous STI, is not the same design as the intercooler found on the WRX and Legacy GT, which bolts directly to the turbo. Also, the intake manifold is cast aluminum and not reinforced plastic despite our earlier predictions to the contrary.
The exterior is, of course, wider than that of the base model WRX. The flared fenders are for once much more reminiscent of the WRC car. The scoops and vents in the bumper are functional and the rear duckbill wing, while less aggressive than that of the outgoing STI sedan, is also functional. The total package provides ample cooling and zero-lift characteristics.
The new STI is also more rigid than the outgoing model while weighing only 22 lbs more, with greater interior and cargo space. In addition, the STI chassis uses high-tensile strength steel in key areas of the chassis making suspension mounting points stronger than even that of the base model WRX. In addition, the new STI features Subaru's proven Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame for added chassis strength and better crash protection
The interior will look familiar to previous STI owners with two-tone Alcantara covered seats, luminescent red gauges and a leather-wrapped 3-spoke wheel. New for the car is a navigation package, which is optional along with Bluetooth connectivity.
The new car will base at $34,995 + destination, and fully loaded will tip the scales at just over $38,995. Look for the car to be on-sale in early 2008. A full driving review of this new STI will appear in the next Subiesport Magazine, due out on newsstands in early December.
