Written by: Kelly Van Deusen
In Spring 2014, Subaru will be introducing the 2015 Subaru WRX STI. The WRX STI is powered by the legendary 305-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged BOXER engine. It debuts a new four-door wide-body design with a redesigned stiffer unibody to provide a solid feel and improved reflexes. Handling is enhanced with a stiffer chassis, firmer springs, and faster steering. The 2015 WRX STI features razor-sharp response and reduced understeer with vehicle dynamics control (VDC) with active torque vectoring, which is a new addition for this model. There is traction built for every situation with Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) to fine-tune the distribution of power. It is equipped with the Brembo performance brake system with Super Sport ABS for track-ready performance and fade-free stopping power. It contains available ultra-lightweight forged aluminum BBS wheels to reduce unsprung weight for quicker suspension reactions.
A new feature of the WRX STI is the multi-information central display to always keep the driver informed. This 4.3-in. LCD screen provides a multitude of vehicle system functions, including a standard rear camera display, a boost gauge display, audio information (on non-navigation models), Bluetooth and climate control settings, and a VDC screen showing traction control operation. The display can also provide a vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder. Also available on the WRX STI are premium 440-watt audio system featuring nine harman/kardon speakers and Starlink with Aha connected services to bring custom content into the driving experience. There is an upgraded and roomier cabin, with a new premium look and feel with increased interior space featuring black seating with red accents. The folding rear seat in the back combines with a larger 12.0 cubic feet of trunk space for great cargo-carrying flexibility.
Maintaining the previous model year pricing of $34,495, the standard features for the 2015 WRX STI include the dual-zone automatic climate control and the All-Weather package (dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and windshield wiper de-icer). Also included as a standard feature is the new standard audio system that combines AM/FM stereo with HD radio, a single disc in dash CD player, 6 speakers, MP3/WMA capability, Radio Data Broadcast System (RDBs), Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming, iPod control capability, iTunes Tagging, SiriusXM Satellite Radio (subscription required), USB port, and a 3.5mm auxiliary audio input jack. Starting at $38,495, the WRX STI Limited adds the luxury of leather-trimmed upholstery, 8-way power driver’s seat, harman/kardon premium audio system, and a power moon roof.
Subaru is also offering a special WRX STI Launch Edition. Only 1,000 will be produced. The Launch Edition is priced at $37,395 and is painted in the traditional WR Blue Pearl color and will have gold-painted 18-inch BBS alloy wheels. The blue and gold is an iconic color combination long associated with Subaru competition cars. There will also be a special interior in the launch edition featuring blue highlights and accents rather than red, and a standard STI short-throw shifter for the 6-speed manual transmission. The keyless access and start system will be standard on the launch edition.
References:
http://www.subaru.com/company/news/2014_february.html
http://www.subaru.com/2015-wrx-sti.html
http://media.subaru.com/pressrelease/573/1/subaru-announces-pricing-all-new-2015-wrx-wrx
