The Subaru Impreza WRX STI 2011 represents a pinnacle of rally-inspired performance in a production sedan. It is positioned as a highly capable performance vehicle appealing to enthusiasts seeking all-wheel-drive traction, turbocharged power, and responsive handling.
Competitive Analysis
Competitors:
Primary competitors include the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS, Volkswagen Golf R, and other sport compacts offering high performance and AWD capabilities.
Comprehensive, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from basic maintenance to complex diagnostics and complete engine/transmission rebuilds.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
Quality:
High-resolution, searchable PDF with clear diagrams and schematics. Printable pages.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
Designed for clear printing of diagrams and text.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
Not applicable (PDF Download)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
Not applicable (PDF Download)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Engine Type:
2.5L Turbocharged DOHC 16-valve Boxer (EJ257)
Performance
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Cooling System
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with Subaru conditioners)
Lubrication System
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Engine Oil
Oil Capacity:
5.5 US quarts (5.2 liters) with filter change
Turbocharger
Turbo Model:
IHI VF48 (or similar)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission
Gear Ratios:
Refer to manual for specific ratios (e.g., 1st: 3.636, 2nd: 2.235, 3rd: 1.524, 4th: 1.121, 5th: 0.971, 6th: 0.763)
Transmission Fluid Type:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil (e.g., Subaru Extra S or equivalent 75W-90)
Features
Dccd:
Driver-Controlled Center Differential (allows manual adjustment of front/rear torque split)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
179.5 inches (4560 mm)
Width:
70.7 inches (1795 mm)
Height:
58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Wheelbase:
103.0 inches (2615 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approximately 3375 lbs (1530 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Refer to vehicle placard (typically around 4500 lbs)
Cargo
Trunk Volume:
11.3 cu ft (320 L)
Wheels And Tires
Wheel Size:
18 x 8.5 inches
Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3mm (5x4.5 inches)
Tire Size:
245/40R18
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-star
NHTSA Side Crash:
5-star
NHTSA Rollover:
4-star
Active Features
Traction Control:
Yes (with AWD and DCCD)
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Yes (ABS)
Brake Bias:
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Passive Features
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional premium audio system available.
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Tire Pressure Monitoring System:
Standard (TPMS)
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
Standard
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, under severe driving conditions (rally-style driving, frequent short trips, track use). Standard interval typically 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 6 months.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months, or as needed based on inspection.
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Iridium spark plugs typically last up to 105,000 miles (168,000 km), but inspection is recommended earlier, especially for performance driving.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for manual transmission, or as specified for differential fluids.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Viscosity:
SAE 5W-30 (Synthetic recommended for STI)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant or equivalent with Subaru conditioners
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Transmission Fluid:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil 75W-90
Differential Fluid:
GL-5 Hypoid Gear Oil 75W-90 (front and rear)
Known Issues
Head Gaskets:
While less common on the EJ257 compared to earlier EJ series, head gasket integrity should always be monitored. Proper maintenance is crucial.
Ring Land Failures:
Can occur in high-performance applications with inadequate tuning or excessive boost pressure. The manual provides critical torque and assembly data to prevent this.
Clutch Wear:
Aggressive driving can lead to accelerated clutch wear. The manual details clutch inspection and replacement procedures.
Turbocharger Issues:
Oil starvation or debris can damage the turbo. Regular oil changes with quality oil are essential. The manual covers turbo inspection and replacement.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Rally Connection:
Subaru's extensive history in the World Rally Championship (WRC), utilizing Impreza models, significantly influenced the WRX and WRX STI's performance and brand image.
Model Evolution
Gd To Gr/Gv Transition:
The 2011 model is part of the third generation (GR/GV) Impreza, which transitioned from the sedan-only GD chassis to a hatchback (GR) and then a sedan (GV) for the performance models, representing a significant styling and engineering update.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Sport Compact Car Achievement Award:
The WRX STI platform has historically received accolades from automotive publications for its performance and handling capabilities.
Performance Car Of The Year:
Often cited in 'best performance car' lists within its segment during its production years.