Born out of the motor rally scene, the Subaru WRX STi has become something of a legend. There’s a new model arriving to some global markets in 2022, but for now the existing car is ready and waiting to stir the motoring senses.
The Car
With a motor sport pedigree, the WRX STi may be for some a little too hardcore, its forte being the job it does best; being great to drive on almost any roads. In its favour though, the car is surprisingly practical and is just the right size for a small family.
Most models sport a big wing on the back, which like the air-flow vent on the bonnet (hood), does serve a purpose and which makes this fine car from the Japanese manufacturer stand out in a crowd. With four full-size doors, it looks good in most colours, the design being purposeful and to the point.
The Interior
Globally specifications vary but the interior does not change much wherever in the world you are. Subaru have made a good job of fit and finish with soft-touch plastics and solid switchgear. As with many sports cars, it is all about function over fashion. The driving position is outstanding; all the necessary controls are easily accessible and there’s a huge amount of visibility of the road ahead.
The dashboard layout is very conventional but there are extra dials that hint at the car’s racing pedigree. How many mainstream cars register g-force for example? Those who love to drive will appreciate knowing how much g-force is being pulled when cornering or how much air the turbo-charger is pumping into the engine!
The seats are great; firm and supportive and other than the addictive noise of the powerful engine, not much outside noise filters into the cabin.
The Drive
Really, this is what it is all about. That’s not to say that this car cannot move around in a sedate and leisurely manner, but when the driver pushes the throttle, things change. Some regions offer a 2.5 litre Boxer engine but buyers wishing to import from Japan a used Subaru WRX STi through the comprehensive service provided by MHH Japanese Cars can expect to find a strong two-litre power-plant. Engage the six-speed gearbox, press the throttle and at around 3,500 revs the turbo-charger spools up and it’s action stations all the way.
Safety is key with cars like this and Subaru major in this department, having an excellent reputation. The brakes are astonishingly good and traction is maintained thanks to a tried and tested four-wheel drive system, providing plenty of grip in all conditions.
There’s a centrally-fitted limited-slip differential, with variable modes, which distributes power equally to the front and rear wheels. Auto mode takes care of itself, Auto- sends more torque to the rear wheels improving steering response for precise handling ideally in dry conditions while Auto+ mode limits torque for the best performance on slippery surfaces. An interesting aside reported by some drivers is that the driving experience feels properly ‘mechanical’, feeling the differential at work.
Should I Buy One?
Subaru have a well-deserved reputation for reliability and the WRX STi is no exception. This car may not be the most fashionable or highly specified with loads of infotainment technology but it will start on a cold day, be safe on bad weather days and above all give the driver that impression of driving a legend.