Positioning:
The Subaru Impreza WRX STi of this era cemented its reputation as a rally-bred performance icon, offering a potent blend of all-wheel drive traction, turbocharged power, and agile handling. It competed directly with performance sedans and hatchbacks from brands like Mitsubishi (Lancer Evolution), Ford (Focus RS), and Volkswagen (Golf GTI/R32).
Strengths:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, legendary turbocharged Boxer engine, robust drivetrain, driver-focused cockpit, strong aftermarket support, significant rally heritage.
Performance Highlights:
The 2001-2002 WRX STi is known for its aggressive styling, performance-oriented suspension tuning, powerful EJ20 engine (in most markets), and driver-adjustable differentials, making it a highly capable machine for both spirited street driving and track/rally use.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, engine management (ECU), forced induction (turbocharger).
Transmission:
Manual transmission (TY757/TY856), clutch system, driveline, differentials (front, center, rear), AWD system operation and maintenance.
Suspension And Steering:
Front and rear suspension (struts, control arms, anti-roll bars), steering system (rack and pinion), power steering system, wheel alignment specifications.
Brake System:
Front and rear disc brakes, ABS system, brake hydraulics, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Electrical Components:
Battery, charging system, starter motor, ignition system, lighting (headlights, taillights, interior), power windows, power locks, wipers, horn, fuse boxes, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body Structure:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, seats, airbags, HVAC system, body sealant and sound deadening.
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and top-offs, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common symptoms, fault codes (OBD-II), electrical system diagnostics, engine performance issues.
Repair And Rebuild:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild, body panel repair, interior component repair.
Specifications And Data:
Torque specifications for fasteners, fluid capacities, tolerances, clearances, electrical resistance values, diagnostic parameter ranges.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Engine Type:
EJ207 (most common for STi variant, twin-scroll turbocharger)
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled
Horsepower Output:
Typically around 260-280 PS (190-206 kW) depending on market and specific tune
Torque Output:
Approximately 343-353 Nm (253-260 lb-ft) depending on market and specific tune
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 RON or higher recommended)
Turbocharger:
IHI VF30/VF35 twin-scroll turbocharger with intercooler
Length:
Approx. 4415 mm (Sedan), 4405 mm (Wagon)
Height:
Approx. 1440 mm (Sedan), 1470 mm (Wagon)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 2625 mm
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1380-1450 kg (depending on body style and equipment)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Typically around 1850 kg
Trunk Volume:
Varies by body style; sedan typically around 390 liters, wagon higher.
NHTSA Front Impact:
Likely 4-star (for driver and passenger) based on contemporary testing of similar Subaru models, though specific official ratings for the 2001-2002 STi may vary by market.
IIHS Side Impact:
Data availability varies by market and year, typically good for vehicles of this era.
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
AWD:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (provides enhanced stability and grip)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags available on some models/markets.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and load limiters, 3-point rear seatbelts.
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis and crumple zones for improved impact energy absorption.
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/CD audio system. Higher trims might include premium sound options.
Display:
Basic digital display for clock, radio, and climate controls. No advanced touchscreens typical of modern vehicles.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems depending on trim level.
Auxiliary Input:
Early models may not feature auxiliary inputs or USB ports; aftermarket solutions are common.
Immobilizer:
Factory fitted engine immobilizer for security.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, especially under spirited driving conditions. Recommended to use synthetic oil.
Engine Oil Type:
Synthetic 5W-30 or 5W-40 is commonly recommended. Refer to manual for specific viscosity based on climate.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Typically around 60,000 miles (96,000 km) or 5 years. Crucial for EJ series engines to prevent catastrophic failure.
Engine Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors. Capacity approx. 7.4 liters.
Transmission Fluid:
Gear oil for manual transmission. API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 is a common recommendation. Capacity approx. 3.5-3.8 liters.
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity approx. 1.0 liter.
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90. Capacity approx. 1.3 liters.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 recommended. High-performance fluid is advisable for spirited driving.
Engine Failure Risk:
Ring land failure in EJ207 engines, especially if subjected to detonation or improper tuning. Proper fuel, maintenance, and avoiding excessive clutch-dropping are key.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ series engines can exhibit increased oil consumption, especially with age and mileage. Monitoring oil levels regularly is critical.
Clutch Wear:
The clutch is a wear item and can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or frequent launching.
Suspension Bushings:
Rubber suspension bushings can degrade over time, leading to vague handling or clunking noises.
Rally Legacy:
Subaru's extensive World Rally Championship (WRC) heritage heavily influenced the development and appeal of the Impreza WRX and WRX STi, establishing them as homologation specials and road-going rally cars.
Generation Start:
The second generation (GD/GG) Impreza, introduced in 2000 for the 2001 model year, featured a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and integrated appearance compared to the previous GC/GF generation.
Sti Differentiation:
The WRX STi variants were distinguished by more powerful engines (often the EJ207), upgraded transmissions, enhanced suspension, larger brakes, and aerodynamic enhancements, often with unique interior treatments and badging.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily Gunma, Japan
Global Availability:
WRX and WRX STi models were available in various global markets including Japan, Europe, Australia, and limited availability in North America (initially WRX models, with STi arriving later).