Indepth: Subaru WRX STI

Story Edric Pan
Photos Andy Wee

The harder the STI is driven, the more it shines as a driving machine

For a clue as to what inspired the new Subaru WRX STI’s brutish five-door body, look no further than the fenders. They’re tremendously evocative, for the only other five-door hatchback with such extravagantly flared wheelarches was the fabled Lancia Delta Integrale. This coy nod to the Italian legend is no coincidence; the Integrale ruled the rally stages in its day, and Subaru’s choice of a more wieldy hatchback body for its latest track weapon is a signal of its serious intent for this car.

QUICKLY
With a styling reminiscent of the legendary Lancia Delta Integrale, the new STI definitely has more form than ever before. But under that sculpted body and (slightly) better cabin, the car remains a true STI: a masochist begging to be whipped and punished; and the harder you do it, the better it performs.

WE LIKE
- Chunky new body
- Immense grip
- Belting acceleration

WE DON'T LIKE
- Turbo lag
- Low rev limit
- Steering is on the light side

ESSENTIALS
Engine: 2457cc, 16-valves, flat-4
Power: 300bhp at 6000rpm
Torque: 407Nm at 4000rpm
Gearbox: 6-speed manual
Top Speed: 245km/h
0-100km/h: 5.3 seconds