2009 Subaru Impreza Wrx Sti Review
Only God knows how many hours I spent in front of the TV, watching World Rally Championship. Back in the 1990s, there were two teams competing for the Championship; Subaru and Mitsubishi. Those cars were equipped with two liter engines that produce over 280 hp and it was amazing to watch those cars slide through the corners. The road versions of these two cars were as powerful as their rally versions but what they lacked were the comfort and the interior quality.
I first saw the hatchback Impreza this summer as I watched the Rally of Turkey. Some say, the sedan body style was better and more sportive. I don't agree with them. The new Impreza looks better than ever, more aggressive and mean. This is a pure rally car under the cover of a very classy hatchback.
Few days ago, I visited the Subaru dealer and had a chance to drive the new hatchback Impreza WRX STI. Subaru designers did a great job. I have never been a big fan of Subaru but I think it is changing.
The 2.5 liters Boxer engine produces 300 hp and 407 Nm torque. This car is fast and scary. It has a bigger intercooler than the previous Imprezas. The new Impreza handles the road better than ever with the VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control). VDC system is almost the same as the ESP system. There is less turbo lag compared to the past Imprezas. SI-Drive performance management system lets you choose your own driving style. There are three types of driving modes; intelligent, sport and sport sharp. Intelligent mode is default setting and it controls the stability of the car by the help of the VDC and TCS system. The torque is limited in this mode. The sports mode is more suitable for sportive driving. There is no torque limit but the VDC is still active. The sport sharp mode is for the ones who want to drive a rally car. VDC and TDC are disabled and you are the one who will try to control this road monster. You can also manually adjust your own setting.
Subaru raised its safety standards. The new Impreza got 5 stars from the most of the crash tests. With the Brembo brake system, TCS and VDC; Impreza WRX STI is a powerful and also a safe car. ABS brakes are supported by the EBD system. Symmetrical AWD helps the driver in hazardous road conditions. Tailored-Blank Welding System is used in the construction of the chassis. Dual airbags and curtain airbags are standard safety features of the Impreza.
Recaro seats are very comfortable. They provide adequate support. The interior materials are reliable and sturdy; they are not cheap plastic parts. Despite the new Impreza is a hatchback, interior is roomy. The red colored gauge lights look very nice at night. The audio system could have been a little bit better. Aluminum pedals are comfortable and feel good.
When I first saw the car, the first thing that caught my eye was the BBS wheels. They fit the car so good and you can choose the gold or aluminum color. As you accelerate, most of the cars will only have a chance to see the quad exhaust outlets of your Impreza. Fog lights and the spoiler add an aggressive look.
I believe 19 MPG is good enough for a sports car like this. You cannot expect a sports car to be economical and Subaru Impreza WRX STI gives what the drivers want from a sports car. Plus it is more comfortable than the other competitors in the market.
