Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) with Auto/Manual modes.
Drivetrain
System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) with front helical LSD and rear mechanical LSD.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Length:
179.5 inches (4560 mm)
Width:
70.7 inches (1795 mm)
Height:
58.1 inches (1475 mm)
Wheelbase:
104.0 inches (2640 mm)
Ground Clearance:
5.0 inches (127 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3373 lbs (1530 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4387 lbs (1990 kg)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Front Crash:
5-Star
NHTSA Side Crash:
5-Star
NHTSA Rollover:
4-Star
Active Features
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with EBD (Electronic Brake-force Distribution).
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with Sport Mode.
AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD) for enhanced stability and traction.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Head Unit:
Standard AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with auxiliary input. Optional navigation system.
Speakers:
6-speaker audio system.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Keyless Entry:
Standard keyless entry and engine immobilizer.
Connectivity
Usb:
Auxiliary input jack for audio devices.
Performance Tech
Si Drive:
Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) system allowing driver to select between Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp modes, affecting throttle response, engine mapping, and VDC parameters.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (severe driving conditions) / 7,500 miles (12,000 km) or 12 months (normal driving).
Air Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Cabin Filter:
Every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) for manual transmission.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified (Subaru Extra Strength or equivalent).
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7 US quarts (5.4 L) with filter change.
Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil.
Differential Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S or equivalent SAE 75W-90 GL-5 gear oil.
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with long-life additives, pre-mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Known Issues
Engine Ring Land Failure:
Susceptibility of EJ257 ring lands to failure under aggressive tuning or sustained high-boost conditions without proper supporting modifications. Manual addresses proper engine operation and diagnostics.
Clutch Wear:
Can be accelerated by aggressive driving. Manual provides inspection and replacement procedures.
Rear Differential Issues:
Some models may experience differential noises or premature wear. Manual details inspection and fluid change procedures.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Rally Roots:
Subaru's strong heritage in World Rally Championship (WRC) racing.
Model Evolution
Generations:
Fifth generation Impreza WRX STI (GVB/GRB chassis).
Previous Generations:
GC8, GD, GE/GH/GR.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan.
Production Period:
2011-2014 (for this specific generation).
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver:
Frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in previous generations, recognizing its performance credentials.
Ratings
Performance Reviews:
Consistently praised by automotive journalists for its handling, grip, and powertrain response.
Certifications
Emissions Standards:
Meets EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.