Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus RS
Key Features
Performance Focus:
Designed for owners of the rally-bred WRX STI, emphasizing its turbocharged boxer engine, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and performance-oriented chassis.
Manual Utility:
Provides factory-level repair procedures, diagnostic information, and maintenance schedules crucial for maintaining the optimal performance and longevity of the WRX STI.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs), Engine Performance Issues, Transmission Shifting Problems, Electrical System Faults, ABS/Traction Control Malfunctions, HVAC System Issues
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance and fluid changes to detailed engine, transmission, and electrical system diagnostics and repair procedures. Includes torque specifications, wiring diagrams, and component removal/installation instructions.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
PDF
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High Resolution, Searchable Text, Bookmarked Sections
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)
Differentials:
Front Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), Rear Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length Mm:
4415
Width Mm:
1795
Height Mm:
1470
Wheelbase Mm:
2650
Ground Clearance Mm:
135
Weights
Curb Weight Kg:
1505
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Kg:
1900
Towing Capacity Kg:
0
Cargo
Trunk Volume Liters:
410
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Overall Rating:
Not rated for this specific trim/year, but predecessor models achieved good ratings.
IIHS Rating:
Good (for frontal offset, side impact - general Impreza platform)
Active Features
Traction Control:
Yes (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Electronic Stability Control:
Yes (VDC)
Anti Lock Brakes:
Yes (ABS with EBD - Electronic Brake-force Distribution)
Brake Assist:
Yes
Passive Features
Airbags:
Frontal Airbags, Side Airbags, Curtain Airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and Load Limiters for Front Seats
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH System
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit Features:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with auxiliary input. Optional touchscreen navigation system with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard
Limited Slip Differentials:
Standard (Front Helical, Rear Mechanical, Center DCCD)
Connectivity
Bluetooth:
Optional, dependent on infotainment system package.
Performance Tech
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential allows manual adjustment of the front-to-rear torque split for varying driving conditions.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval Miles:
3,750 - 7,500 (depending on driving conditions, manual recommends 3,750 for severe use)
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
15,000 - 30,000
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
30,000 - 60,000 (Iridium plugs)
Transmission Fluid Change Miles:
30,000 - 60,000 (Manual Transmission, AWD fluid also recommended)
Brake Fluid Change Miles:
30,000
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 compliant)
Engine Oil Capacity Liters:
4.8 (with filter)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
SAE 75W-90 (API GL-4 or GL-5)
Transmission Fluid Type AWD Front Diff:
SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5)
Transmission Fluid Type Rear Diff:
SAE 75W-90 (API GL-5)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent
Known Issues
Engine Failures:
Head gasket failures (less common on EJ257 than earlier EJ25s but still a concern), piston ringland failure (especially with aggressive tuning), thrown rods.
Turbocharger Issues:
Oil starvation leading to turbo failure, wastegate rattle.
Suspension Wear:
Premature wear of control arm bushings and ball joints, especially with aggressive driving.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or frequent launching.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Motorsport Connection:
Strong ties to Subaru's World Rally Championship (WRC) heritage, which influenced the WRX STI's development and performance focus.
Model Evolution
Generation Context:
Part of the third generation (GH/GR/GV) Impreza, where the WRX STI adopted a more distinct styling with the sedan body style (GVB) becoming the flagship.
Production
Production Location:
Gunma Prefecture, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver నించ:
Car and Driver's 10Best list (previous generations of WRX/STI were frequent recipients, indicating overall platform strengths)
Motorsport Accolades:
The WRX STI lineage is synonymous with rally success, influencing its market perception as a highly capable performance vehicle.
Ratings
Overall Performance Perception:
Highly regarded for its AWD system, responsive handling, and potent turbocharged engine, appealing to driving enthusiasts.