This seems strange, but we won’t have exact figures and the reasons behind them until we drive the STI next month. Both engines are essentially the same as their predecessors in terms of bore and stroke, although variable intake- and exhaust-valve timing is new to both. The U.S.-bound STI will continue to have a six-speed manual only, with no change in gearing or final drive.
Subaru has added some sophistication to its all-wheel-drive system, with additional programmability for the center differential, the onset threshold for the stability system, and even the engine management system. The front-to-rear torque split is 41/59 in normal operation but can vary as much as 75 percent to either end under extreme conditions. Both front and rear diffs are limited slip, and stability control should be part of the equation.
The front suspension continues to be struts, but the rear suspension is a new multilink setup. We can’t talk about driving impressions yet, but Subaru admits that the suspension tuning is generally softer than that of the current STI, part of an overall effort to make the car’s appeal a little more mainstream and a little less cultlike.
View Photos
View Photos
Leave a Reply