While the WRX has been updated a while ago with a new engine, the STI was left pretty much unchanged. So far it seems that the revised version will only be released with the 2018 Subaru WRX STI which is set to debut in late 2017. Just like with the usual Impreza, the new STI is going to make use of Subaru’s brand new modular platform. This will increase the rigidity of the car by up to 70 to 100%. While in the usual sedan this mostly means a safer ride, in the high-performance STI it mostly means higher cornering speeds and more feedback sent to the driver.
More details and price
The new platform is also slightly larger than before. The wheelbase will increase by an inch and the car is expected to get around 1.6 inches longer and with up to 1.5 inches wider. The new Impreza is also lower than the older model which should also be carried over onto the STI. So far most of these changes will basically make a better STI due to the increased wheelbase which will mean a more stable car at higher speeds. The price for the car is still unknown at this point but considering the competition, expect it to cost right around $36,000.
What will power it?
One of the most important features of the 2018 Subaru WRX STI is going to be its engine. The current model is being powered by an EJ unit which has its roots all the way back in the ‘90s. The new car will change all that. For starters, it is expected to use a new generation FA engine, the same as that found in the WRX. This will likely be a 2-liter unit which with the help of a sequential turbocharger should make 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Subaru’s great all wheel drive system is definitely going to be available as standard on the STI. Also, their six-speed manual gearbox should be a given at this point. There will be differences over the current car though. For starters, this time around the STI might receive a much better torque vectoring system. This should allow the car to send up to 100% of the torque to any wheel at any given time.
2016 Subaru WRX STI Engine
Even though not official for now, it also seems that the new STI is also going to receive an automatic. Subaru doesn’t really have a suitable offering for this just yet. There have been some rumors suggesting that they may borrow a dual-clutch unit to offer with the STI. This would significantly improve performance without having any major disadvantages. Expect the new model to hit 60 MPH in around 4 seconds and hit a maximum top speed of over 160 MPH.
2018 Subaru WRX STI design
Even though this will be an all-new model, the actual design of the car is not going to change much. While this may sound far-fetched, the newest Impreza is the perfect example. The car is nearly identical to the WRX or STI which likely means that the production model of the new STI will be similar to it as well. The car may receive a new grille, different headlights, and different body panels but it will still look very familiar. Inside the cabin, things are going to take a turn for the better with the 2018 Subaru WRX STI. This will more than likely receive the all new dashboard found in the Impreza. However, it will come with extras. These will likely include much better seats with more supportive side bolsters, a new steering wheel and likely more gauges to check the boost, the EGT or even the air/fuel mixture ratio.
