This morning at the Detroit International Auto Show->ke222, Subaru->ke86 has officially unveiled the car that every enthusiast has been waiting for, the next-generation WRX STI->ke4657.

Unfortunately, it appears that Subaru has not fulfilled all the dreams of the Internet masses. The new car makes no major strides in terms of engine output or design, and a wagon variant is still nowhere to be found.

What the latest STI forgoes in engine changes, it more than makes up for in chassis redesign. With a stiffer chassis and a new Active Torque Vectoring system, this latest STI should set a new a benchmark for how a bargain hoonmobile should handle. As an added bonus, the new STI looks to change perceptions on interior build quality and refinement.

Does this new AWD rocket really have what it takes to make the faithful fans of this rally->ke2464-bred machine happy?

Updated 04/23/2015: Subaru announced prices for the 2016 WRX STI, which will arrive at dealers this summer. The model continues unchanged from the previous year, except the addition of the new STARLINK™ multimedia system.

Continue reading to learn more about the Subaru WRX STI.

2015 - 2016 Subaru WRX STI

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2015 - 2016 Subaru WRX STI
  • Engine/Motor: inline-4
  • Horsepower: 305 @ 6000
  • Torque: 290 @ 4000
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Exterior

The STI has always been a meaner looking version of the plebeian Impreza WRX, and this version is no different. While the overall profile is reminiscent of the base Impreza, the STI features unique doors, fenders, bumpers and hood. The hood is made from aluminum to reduce weight over the nose, and the large scoop that feeds the intercooler has been mounted deeper to improve forward visibility. The headlamp and taillamp assemblies are also bespoke to the STI.

A full aerodynamic body kit is included and features a rear diffuser as well as a large rear wing; a signature feature for STI sedans. Other noticeable changes to the STI include mesh screened fender vents and a carbon-fiber look trim around the foglight assemblies.

Interior

Interior quality has long been an issue for Subaru, but the 2015 STI looks to change that perception. The steering wheel is covered in leather and features controls for audio and Bluetooth. The sports bucket seats have leather bolsters and Alcantara inserts and feature red-contrast stitching. Soft touch materials can be found throughout the cabin on the dash, door panels and center console.

The audio system has been upgraded to a six-speaker unit with HD radio and SiriusXM capability. The head unit can be replaced with a 6.1-inch LCD touchscreen navigation system.

The STI will also be sold in a Limited trim level that adds leather seating, a power moonroof and a harman/kardon premium audio system.

Drivetrain

The drivetrain in the STI is probably the least interesting part; a staggering thought, considering this is a performance automobile. The engine in the all-new STI is a turbocharged 2.5-liter, boxer four that makes 305 horsepower and 290 pound-feet of torque. If that sounds familiar, it is because it is the exact same engine that has been powering the STI since 2008.

We feel that Subaru should have been able to make some sort of progress on this engine in the last seven years either in power output or economy. Instead, we have the exact same power output, and the exact same fuel economy as the third-generation cars. A mild jump in horsepower or efficiency would have been a welcome sight.

A bespoke six-speed manual is the only transmission option.

Chassis & Suspension

While it seems Subaru has skimped on the drivetrain, the chassis and handling abilities of the new STI should be leagues ahead of its predecessor. The actual chassis of the car has been stiffened dramatically and the spring rates have been firmed up to provide a sharper on-road feel. The steering rack has also been tightened up and now features a fast 13:1 ratio.

The advanced AWD system has been enhanced with a new Active Torque Vectoring system that can apply brake pressure to individual wheels to create a more neutral feeling through corners.

Prices

Model/Trim

Transmission

MSRP

MSRP + destination and delivery

WRX STI

6MT

$34,495

$35,290

WRX STI Launch Edition

6MT

$37,395

$38,190

WRX STI Limited

6MT

$38,495

$39,290


2016 Subaru WRX STI - Prices

Model/Trim

Transmission

Applicable Option Code

MSRP

MSRP + destination and delivery ($795)

WRX STI

6MT

02, 03

$34,695

$35,490

WRX STI Limited – Wing

6MT

21

$39,995

$40,790

WRX STI - Low Profile Trunk Spoiler

6MT

21

$39,995

$40,790


Options

10 Inch Powered Subwoofer

$499

Upgraded Speakers

$249

Body Side Molding

$229

Security System Upgrade - Shock Sensor

$159

Rear Bumper Applique

$69.95

Rear Bumper Protector

$69.95

Side Window Deflectors

$119.95

Center Armrest Extension

$144

STI Duracon Shift Knob

$79.95

STI Front Lip Spoiler

$399

STI Leather Aluminum Shift Knob

$169.95

SPT Performance Exhaust System - STI

$1,099.95

STI Rear Side Under Spoiler

$335

STI Rear Under Spoiler

$350

STI Short Throw Shifter

$339.95

STI Side Under Spoiler

$499


Competitors

Volkswagen Golf R

With the new-generation Volkswagen Golf R coming to market, the new STI will be facing some stiff competition. The Golf R will easily beat the new Subaru in interior quality and refinement, but likely wont be as fast down a gravel or mud-caked road.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The truest competitor to the STI has always been the Evo. Built with the same rally-racing pedigree as the STI, the Evo is a sharp-handling, AWD monster. The Subaru holds a pricing edge over the Evo, but the Mitsubishi is the better driver's car.

Ford Focus ST

A model that is also gaining lots of traction in the sports market is the Focus ST. The model is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers a total of 252 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque. With this amount of power, the Focus ST can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and up to a top speed of 155 mph. Sure, it's nowhere near as fast as the STI, but its price point and ability to haul cargo are huge selling points.

The 2014 Focus ST is priced from $24,115.

Conclusion

The new STI has a new exterior with an ancient drivetrain. The revised handling may be enough to make the newest STI a great drive, but it will be hard to ignore the fact that it using an engine that has been essentially unchanged for the better part of a decade.

Powertrain aside, the new STI looks to be a menacing continuation of the Subaru saga.

Leaked images

No surprises here, as the new STI is basically a standard WRX with a more race-ready appearance. The WRX STI features a World Rally Blue exterior hue with golden alloy wheels.

On the rear, there is a larger wing to help improve stability at high speeds.

Also included is a red "STI" logo on the grille will remind you this is no ordinary WRX.

Updated 01/16/2014: Subaru unveiled a new video (above) that gives you an in-depth look at the 2015 WRX STI. Enjoy!

Updated 02/14/2014: Subaru announced today prices for the new WRX STI that will be put on sale this spring at a starting price of $34,495.

Updated 04/11/2014: Subaru unveiled a new set of images for the 2015 WRX STI. Check the picture gallery to find them.

Updated 04/30/2014: Subaru unveiled a new video showing four-time WRC Champ Tommi Mäkinen behind the wheel of the new WRX STI.