Koby Subaru

Subaru Product Preview: 2011 Impreza WRX and WRX STI

WRX AND WRX STI FANS -- HERE ARE SOME THINGS TO CHEER ABOUT FOR 2011!

Since debuting the current generation WRX and WRX STI in 2008, Subaru has added models to the lineup and increased horsepower for the WRX. Subaru continues to evolve the WRX/WRX STI for the 2011 model year.

WRX STI -- The Wing is Back

On the evening of March 31, automotive journalists and a few Subaru owners had a rare opportunity. Subaru of America, Inc. gave them a sneak peek at the new 2011 WRX STI Sedan model -- something the rest of the world wouldn't see until the next morning. They all discovered that the wing (mounted on the decklid) is back!

With its introduction, the 2011 WRX STI Sedan marks the first time that Subaru is making the WRX STI in two body styles (Sedan and 5-door). Plus, the Sedan is the first WRX STI 4-door with the wide-body design.

That's not all. The WRX STI model line has revised front spoilers and blacked-out fog light nacelles to emphasize a wide and low profile. The line also features new grilles, sharpened bumper corners, and larger grille and bumper intake openings -- for a more powerful appearance.

The standard wheels are new, too. The 18-inch high-luster silver alloy wheels weigh a total of 17.6 pounds less than the previous ones. High-luster silver 18-inch x 8.5-inch BBS® forged aluminum-alloy wheels reduce weight even more.

Utilizing some of the suspension modifications introduced on the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition, Subaru enhanced chassis tuning even more for 2011. Lowered ride height and changes in components such as bushings help to improve camber and toe stiffness. Springs in the front and rear suspension systems have higher rates (15.6 percent front and 53 percent rear), and both front and rear stabilizer bars are stiffer.

Inside, the trim panels, steering wheel airbag cover, and steering wheel switches receive a black-and-silver finish and dark cast metallic components.

The powertrain components and other features carry over from the 2010 model year.

WRX -- Something Old, Something New

The surprise for the 2011 WRX is its redesigned body. It now has the WRX STI's wide-body style. New exterior features include the front bumper, wide front fenders with chrome WRX badges, wide quarter panels, and rear bumper. The WRX also has a new mesh grille in front and a satin-finished chrome rear garnish.

The wider body allows wider rims and wider track, which improve handling. Standard on the 2011 WRX are 17-inch x 8-inch gunmetal gray alloy wheels and 235/45 R17 summer performance tires.

Powertrain specifications carry over from the 2010 model year.

SUBARU INTRODUCES NEW 4-DOOR IMPREZA® WRX® STI® MODEL FOR 2011

    * First Time Subaru Performance Flagship Offered in Two Body Styles

    * New WRX STI 4-Door with Wide-Body Design

    * Retuned Suspension for Even Sharper Handling

New York, April 1, 2010 -- Subaru of America today introduced a new 4-door version of the Impreza WRX STI performance flagship model. This will be the first time that the WRX STI has been offered in two body styles (5-door and 4-door). In addition to the new styling, the 2011 WRX STI features heavily revised suspension tuning and lighter 18-inch wheels for even sharper handling.

The WRX STI has been a recipient of continuous improvement since its introduction. Most recently, the 2010 WRX STI Special Edition previewed some of the suspension enhancements now migrated to the 2011 WRX STI. Thorough and painstakingly detailed chassis development, including testing on Germany's famed Nurburgring racetrack, has resulted in the best-handling Impreza WRX STI models Subaru has ever offered.

"The continuous evolution and development of the WRX STI is driven by the strong, loyal and vocal support from thousands of enthusiastic owners of this exciting high-performance vehicle," said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. "The 2011 4-door WRX STI will expand the appeal of this iconic performance model to a wider range of driving enthusiasts."

The 2011 Impreza WRX STI models arrive in Subaru dealerships late this summer.
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.
All-New 4-Door Wide Body Design for 2011

The new WRX STI 4-door design is based on a "wide and low" concept that gives the car an aggressive road presence. Like the wide-body design already used for the 5-door WRX STI, the new 4-door WRX STI features widened front and rear track dimensions and wider, more pronounced front fenders and rear quarter panels. The design maintains a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, creating a distinctive identity and a sense of stability.

In front, the 2011 WRX STI models feature sharpened bumper corners and wider, blacked-out fog lamp nacelles to accentuate the "wide and low" profile. A jutting lip spoiler with three-dimensional detailing emphasizes the cars' sporty intent. The newly designed front grille with a black grille inset and blacked-out Subaru floating wing also signify the 2011 model and set off the headlights' shape to give the entire front end a more powerful appearance.

For the WRX STI 4-door sedan model, newly designed wider fenders are stretched out on the side more than the tail lamps, and this accentuates a look of stability. A striking larger rear spoiler was exclusively designed for the STI 4-door. The new design details contribute to an improved drag coefficient, and the rear spoiler design contributes to stable high-speed handling and achievement of zero lift. The WRX STI 4-door features its own version of the polished stainless steel quad-tailpipe exhaust, with tailpipe diameter enlarged to three inches.
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: 21 mm vs. 20 mm in front and 19 mm vs. 18 mm in rear. (The 2010 WRX STI Special Edition already had the thicker rear stabilizer.) Spring rates have increased by 15.6 percent in front and 53 percent in the rear. (Rear spring rate for the 2011 WRX STI is 18-percent over the already-higher rate rear springs introduced in 2010 WRX STI Special Edition.)

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 245/40R18 summer performance tires are used with the standard and optional wheels.
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.

The 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.

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.

Also 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, 3.5 mm 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 Safety

Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) provides precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Brake Assist analyzes the force and stroke on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking, also activating the ABS system early if needed.

All Impreza models utilize the proven Subaru Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones, and all feature standard side-curtain airbags. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features front seat side impact air bags. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight -- first determining if the seat is occupied, and if so by a child or adult -- to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an "Airbag" indicator light. There are 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, including front height-adjustable seatbelts with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters.
About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel-efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants, and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.
SUBARU INTRODUCES 2011 IMPREZA® WRX® MODELS WITH NEW WIDE-BODY DESIGNS AND ENHANCED HANDLING PERFORMANCE

    * New WRX 4-Door and 5-Door Models Adopt STI Wide-Body Design

    * Wider Track and Tires Enhance Grip

New York, April 1, 2010 -- Subaru of America today introduced the new 2011 Impreza WRX models, which for the first time share the wide-body design with the brand's iconic WRX STI\0xC6 performance flagship model, including the new-for-2011 wide-body 4-door sedan.

The wider body designs give the 2011 WRX an aggressive road presence and also allow wider track dimensions. An approximately 1.5 inch increase in front and rear track, firmer rear subframe bushings and wider 17-inch wheels and tires deliver improved grip in the 2011 WRX.

"The new wide-body designs for the 2011 WRX give this performance icon a new level of street presence," said Tom Doll, executive vice president and COO of Subaru of America, Inc. "This is one more step on the continuous evolution of the WRX to give driving enthusiasts an even more compelling all-wheel drive performance package."

The 2011 Impreza WRX models arrive in Subaru dealerships this summer. Both are powered by a 265-hp turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter Boxer engine teamed with a 5-speed manual transmission. The highly responsive engine produces 244 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. The WRX has been the focus of continuous improvement since its introduction. Most recently, the 2009 model received the 265-horsepower engine and a significant chassis tuning upgrade. For 2010, the new Limited trim lines expanded the WRX model's appeal to a broader range of driving enthusiasts.
New Designs for 2011

The WRX will now share the WRX STI wide body design, including the newly developed 4-door version, for 2011. This change underscores the high-performance character of these models versus the standard Impreza model line. Significantly, curb weight for the 2011 WRX models increases by just 34 pounds over the "original body" 2010 models, preserving their powerful acceleration performance.

The WRX 4-door design is based on a "wide and low" concept that gives the car an aggressive road presence. Like the wide-body design already used for the 5-door WRX STI, the new 4-door features widened front and rear track dimensions and wider, more projecting front fenders and rear quarter panels. The design maintains a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, creating a distinctive identity and a sense of stability.

In front, the 2011 WRX models feature sharpened bumper corners and wider, blacked-out fog lamp nacelles to accentuate the "wide and low" profile. A jutting lip spoiler with three-dimensional detailing emphasizes the cars' sporty intent. The newly designed front grille with black base and blacked out Subaru wing highlights the headlights' shape to give the entire front end a more powerful appearance, accentuated by larger grille and bumper intake openings.

For the 2011 WRX 4-door model, newly designed wider fenders are stretched out on the side more than the tail lamps, and this accentuates a look of stability. The new design details contribute to an improved drag coefficient.
Wider Track Enhances Handling

Giving the 2011 WRX the same widened body designs as the WRX STI allowed Subaru to also widen track dimensions and install wider wheels and tires than on the 2010 model. These changes, along with firmer rear subframe bushings, help to reduce body roll and improve cornering stability.

In the 2011 WRX models, front track measures 60.2 in. vs. 58.9 in. for the 2010 WRX; rear track is now 60.6 in. vs. 59.1 in. for the 2010 model. The standard wheels are now 17 x 8 in. vs. 17 x 7-in. in the 2010 model, and tire size is now 235/45R17 vs. 225/45R17.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and Vehicle Dynamics Control

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which forms the common core technology on all Subaru models, gives the Impreza WRX a significant handling-performance advantage over front-wheel drive competitors. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system (which varies by Subaru model and transmission). The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the car's center of gravity, which in turn contributes to its sporty handling characteristics.

The 2011 Impreza WRX uses the Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A viscous coupling locking center differential nominally distributes torque 50:50. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard. 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.

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.
Sporty, Spacious and Versatile Interior

In the WRX models, exclusive carbon black checkered upholstery accented by red stitching sets the tone for the sporty interior. All WRX 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. As a sporty accent, 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, 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, which is 6.5-inches longer than the 5-door, the trunk 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.
Proven Subaru Safety Technology

The Impreza models are built around the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones, proven in Subaru models for over a decade to provide outstanding crash protection. All Impreza models feature a 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. The WRX has larger front brakes than other Impreza models. Brake Assist analyzes the force and stroke on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking, also activating the ABS system early if needed.

All seats provide 3-point seatbelts (height-adjustable for outboard positions), and the front seatbelts have electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters. Side-curtain airbags are standard on all Subaru models. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features front seat side impact airbags and a driver's side front airbag that deploys according to the driver's proximity to the steering wheel. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight -- first determining if the seat is occupied, and if so by a child or adult -- to control airbag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an "Airbag" indicator light.
About Subaru of America, Inc.

Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of more than 600 dealers across the United States. Subaru boasts the most fuel-efficient line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. For additional information visit www.subaru.com.

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2011 Subaru STI

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