The 2018 Subaru WRX STI debuted at this years’ Detroit Auto Show and unlike the new Impreza, that also debuted recently, the WRX receives only a smattering of changes. It seems like Subaru is not quite ready to take the plunge with their number one sports sedan, and is keeping the WRX rather conservative for the time being. But, we hope some major changes are in store for the next generation.
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2018 Subaru WRX STI Exterior and Interior
The new WRX STI as well as the regular WRX model will continue to be built in Japan. Although a lot of people expected it to be built in Lafayette, Indiana, where the new Impreza is being assembled, Subaru seems to be sticking with what works. That also means that Subaru will forgo the new scalable design and updated interior they have been using lately.
Among the very few changes the WRX got this model year are the miniscule grille updates with adaptive LED headlights, new 19 inch wheels and some suspension improvements. On the inside, there are some brand-new interior materials, mostly in the form of new trim garnishes. There are also some thicker windows that may help reduce the noise pollution. Furthermore, there is a super-size multi-function information display, that went from just 4.3 inches to nearly 6 inches.
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2018 Subaru WRX STI Engine and Powertrain
The setup under the hood remains unchanged. The WRX STI is still rocking the 2.5-liter turbocharged EJ flat-4 cylinder. This engine is capable of producing up to makes 305 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 290 pound-feet of torque at 4,000 rpm. Even if that performance may fall behind some of the newer powertrain setups on the market, the STI still feels rather quick. It manages to go from zero to 60 mph in about 4.6 seconds, while the top speed is set at 160 mph. As for the transmission, a six-speed manual is your only choice.
Other notable features for the 2018 Subaru WRX STI include the Driver Control Center Differential system and some improved brakes that now feature six-piston calipers up front and drilled rotors all the way around.
2018 Subaru WRX STI Release Date and Price
We are still waiting for Subaru to set up an official release date, but the new model is expected to hit the showrooms in spring of this year. As for the prices, we don’t expect to see any significant changes. The current model retails at about $36,000, and we expect the 2018 model to stay on the same wavelength.
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