Subaru WRX STI launched at MIAS

As local launches go, the Manila International Auto Show has proven to be quite an effective venue over the past few years. This year was no different. Among the numerous new models unveiled at the now much-anticipated show was the motorsports crowd drawer Subaru Impreza WRX STI. In fact, no less than the star of last year’s show, stunt driver Russ Swift, was seen at the Subaru booth during the car‘s unveiling. Swift was no doubt anxious to show visitors to this year’s show what the completely new WRX STI can do (he did, eventually, and how!).

Notable too was how no less than Motor Image group chairman Glenn Tan was the man at the helm during the launch. The young and dynamic Singapore based chief executive flew in the day before the public unveiling just so he could personally oversee one of his company’s most important model’s Philippine debut.

The WRX STI actually needs little introduction to hardcore enthusiasts. Though this third generation variant comes with a complete makeover in its design, engine, chassis and features, its more sedate siblings, the Impreza 2.0R and the WRX 2.5 Turbo had already paved the way for the big kahuna. As such, the STI debuts with great expectations. Expectations, might we add, that its 2.5-liter, 16-valve, turbocharged engine is more than willing to deliver. With a maximum output of 221kW @ 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 407 Nm @ 4000rpm, this engine can propel the STI from 0-100kph in a mere 5.2 seconds. And, as if you needed any more convincing, the almost too modest looking STI (save for the bulging wheel arches and that gaping hood scoop) reaches a top speed of 250kph. Whew!

Still, the all new STI actually comes with more than just a greatly refined engine (and more passenger friendly suspension). It also now has a slew of mechanisms that round out the driving experience by providing better handling and safety. A multi-mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) for example, can adjust the car’s center differential to provide better turning capability and stability. A multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, meanwhile, increases the car’s flexibility by adjusting the torque delivery and braking power – which is good if one encounters varying road surfaces.

Like any Subaru before it, the third generation Impreza WRX STI straddles the safe line where interior design quality is concerned. It’s neither mind blowing nor disappointing. The good news is that like any other Subaru before it, the new WRX STI also comes with the Symmetrical All Wheel Drive system and a Horizontally Opposed Boxer engine, making it one of the most balanced drives out in the market.

The real deal is that this new WRX STI (which stands for Subaru Tecnica International, a subsidiary specializing in motorsports activities) promises to give the most bang for the buck where sporty performance is concerned. At a very reasonable (considering what you get for the package) P2.348M, the all new Subaru Impreza WRX STI is bound to make many an enthusiast reach down into their pockets.

Feel free to visit the Motor Image Pilipinas showroom at 187 EDSA North Greenhills San Juan if your thirst for speed and performance just picked up a notch.