Subaru WRX STI Makes European Debut At Geneva

The new Subaru WRX STI sports saloon made its European debut at the 84th Geneva Motor Show. A significant range of modifications and enhancements has been made to the body, chassis, interior and packaging of the new STI. Sporting an all new exterior, the body and chassis have been significantly stiffened to improve torsional rigidity, while the latest iteration of Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with Active Torque Vectoring allows for maximum control and driver engagement. The suspension is performance-tuned for a flat but comfortable ride and a great deal of attention has been given to the new hydraulic steering system, which uses a quicker ratio and stiffer steering rack. The interior has changed compared to its predecessor. Soft touch materials are used in key areas, new STI dials and carbon-effect and metal trim are employed for a sporty feel and higher quality ambience and there is a new, smaller-diameter D-shaped steering wheel.

OneShift Editorial Team

10 Mar 2014

The new model is more spacious all round as well. Rear seat passengers have more leg room due to a 25mm increase in wheelbase and there is also more shoulder and elbow room inside the cabin. Cargo volume in the boot is increased by 40 litres.

The six-speed manual gearbox has been revised to provide an even shorter, quicker shift between gears to help drivers get the best from the STI's engine. The new WRX STI is powered by a 2.5 litre turbocharged version of Subaru's iconic, four cylinder Boxer engine which produces 300Ps at 6,000rpm and 407Nm torque at 4,000rpm, delivering a brilliant throttle response and vigorous acceleration.

The race-bred version of the WRX STI, being developed to contest the annual Nürburgring 24-Hour Race in June, also appeared on Subaru’s stand at Geneva. This modified version of the showroom car will be seeking its third successive class win at the notoriously demanding race circuit in Germany’s Eifel Mountains.

Credits: Oneshift News Team