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Review (2/2)

The Wing is Back: Subaru Debuts the All-New Impreza WRX STI 4-Door

Source: Subaru | Published: Tue Aug 31, 2010

(continued from the previous page)

New WRX STI Chassis Tuning for 2011

The Subaru WRX STI was already a highly optimized performance machine. Changes in chassis tuning for 2011 reflect both owner / enthusiast feedback and the brand's commitment to keeping this model at the peak of the segment's performance offerings. The fundamentals remain the same as before, but specific tuning - previewed by the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition - results in reduced body roll, more neutral handling response and higher lateral-G capability.

The basics: The WRX STI delivers ultra-crisp handling along with everyday ride compliance. High-tensile-strength steel is used at key structural points and the suspension-mounting areas. Inverted struts used for the front suspension provide high bending resistance for quicker and more consistent performance under hard cornering. Aluminum front lower L-arms reduce unsprung vehicle weight.

Major changes to suspension tuning for the 2011 WRX STI include a lowered ride height and new pillow-ball bushings in front and stiffer bushings for the rear subframe that supports the double-wishbone suspension - these improve camber and toe stiffness. Both the front and rear suspension systems employ higher-rate springs and thicker front and rear stabilizer bars than the 2010 model. Spring rates have increased by 15.6 percent in front and 53 percent in the rear.

New standard 18-inch aluminum wheels feature high-luster paint and weigh 17.6 lbs less than the previous standard wheels. The optional 18 x 8.5 in. BBS forged aluminum-alloy wheels are highlighted by silver high-luster paint for 2011. These wheels further reduce unsprung vehicle weight. Dunlop SP600 245/40 R18 summer performance tires are used with the standard and optional wheels.

Performance Evolution

The 2011 WRX STI continues as the ultimate-performance Subaru with its high-boost 305-hp turbocharged/intercooled Boxer engine teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission and the exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

The WRX STI is equipped with advanced dynamic control systems, including Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) and Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which features a track performance-optimized mode. Incline Start Assist, featured on all Impreza models equipped with a manual transmission, can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

SI-DRIVE Gives WRX STI Driver More Control

Exclusive to the WRX STI models, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) technology allows the driver to tailor the car's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes - "Intelligent," "Sport" and "Sport Sharp" - using a rotary dial on the center console. SI-DRIVE alters vehicle performance characteristics by regulating the Engine Control Module (ECM) 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.

Multi-Mode DCCD All-Wheel Drive with Three-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control

As before, the 2011 WRX STI is exclusively equipped with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The system employs planetary-type differential gears with a nominal 41:59 torque split. A mechanical limited-slip type center differential augments an electronically controlled center differential to enhance torque transfer performance. A steering sensor input enhances torque transfer response by accurately relaying the car's cornering situation. A helical-type limited-slip front differential and a TORSEN torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential optimize side-to-side power distribution, helping to prevent the inside wheels from slipping during cornering.br>
TThe DCCD AWD system features three automatic modes. "Auto" mode provides the best all-around performance for most drivers and circumstances, varying the front/rear torque distribution automatically via the limited-slip type differential in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage. The "Auto (-)" mode makes less use of the center limited-slip differential (less locking factor) and holds the torque bias to the rear more frequently, which yields more handling-oriented steering characteristics. For driving on slippery surfaces, such as gravel or snow, the Auto (+) setting tightens the LSD. In manual mode, DCCD offers six levels of center differential locking, allowing the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution (up to 50:50 maximum) to optimize AWD performance for varying driving conditions.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard on all Subaru models for 2010. It is important to note that, in Subaru vehicles, traction control plays a second line of defense against wheel slip after AWD torque distribution. In contrast, some All-Wheel Drive systems on the market lack the performance advantage of a locking center differential and rely solely on traction control to redistribute torque away from slipping wheels.br>
Exclusive to the WRX STI, the Multi-Mode VDC system offers the driver three settings: "VDC Normal," "Traction" and "Off." The "Normal" setting provides the highest level of system engagement, utilizing traction control (TCS) and VDC. The "Traction" setting is more performance-oriented, employing less-restrictive VDC and disengaging the engine torque-reduction control. The "Off" setting disengages the VDC and the traction control functions.

AAlso exclusive to the WRX STI, the Brembo Performance Brake System uses ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Front discs measure 13.0 inches in diameter and use 4-piston, fixed-position calipers; the 12.6 in. rear discs use 2-piston, fixed-position 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. In contrast, conventional ABS systems control the rear wheels as a pair, reducing the braking force to both rear wheels equally.

Sporty, Spacious and Versatile Interior

New for 2011, the WRX STI interior is finished in black and silver to highlight its sporty design. The color of each metallic part was unified to dark metallic and sharp silver. Trim panels, steering wheel air bag cover and steering wheel switches are now dark cast metallic.

The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather-wrapped design embossed with the STI logo in its center. The wheel features control switches for Bluetooth hands-free phone function. The WRX STI models are equipped with standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers and driver's footrest. Performance-design front seats integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure. The instrument panel electroluminescent gauges use indicator needles that sweep the gauge faces upon engine startup.

The compact layout of the double-wishbone rear suspension helps to minimize intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wide and deep luggage compartment. In the 5-door models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags with the rear seat backs in the upright position. In the 4-door sedan model, which is 6.5-inches longer than the 5-door, the extra space provides for a larger, deeper trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. A 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience, and the 4-Door also features a rear seat fold-down center armrest.

Standard amenities that help make the WRX STI an excellent everyday driver include an automatic climate control system with cabin air filtration and an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player that features Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, iPod control capability, a USB port, 3.5mm aux. input jack and XM/SIRIUS satellite radio capability. A vehicle security system with engine immobilizer is standard, as well. The optional navigation system integrates a vehicle information center and Bluetooth hands-free calling. In addition to an input for MP3 players, the center console also includes video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices. These can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked. All WRX STI models come pre-wired for XM or SIRIUS Satellite Radio.

Subaru Impreza WRX STI: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications

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