Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST, Hyundai Veloster N (later models)
Performance Focus:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, turbocharged boxer engine, rally-bred heritage
Handling:
Performance-tuned suspension, precise steering, strong braking system
Durability:
Robust EJ257 engine, proven AWD system
Engine:
2.5L Turbocharged EJ257 (diagnosis, overhaul, timing belt, cooling, lubrication, fuel injection, ignition, emissions)
Transmission:
6-speed Manual Transmission (TY76) - diagnosis, overhaul, clutch, driveline, differentials
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system, limited-slip differentials (front, center, rear), axle shafts, prop shaft
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, springs, control arms, anti-roll bars, bushings, alignment specifications
Brakes:
Front Brembo 4-piston calipers, rear Brembo 2-piston calipers, ABS system, EBD, brake lines, rotors, pads, bleeding procedures
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion, steering column, tie rod ends
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, charging system, starting system, lighting, power windows, locks, audio system, body control module (BCM), ECU diagnosis
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heater, climate control unit, refrigerant types, diagnosis
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, exterior trim, glass, bumpers
Chassis:
Frame structure, unibody construction, mounting points
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections
Repair:
Engine component replacement (turbocharger, injectors, pistons, etc.), transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement
Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), fault finding procedures for all major systems
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic flowcharts for common and complex issues
Specifications:
Torque specifications for all fasteners, critical clearances, measurements
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed electrical schematics for all vehicle systems
Depth:
Complete overhaul and rebuild procedures, advanced diagnostic techniques, factory-level repair instructions
Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (TY76)
Type:
N/A (STI exclusively manual)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically operated, twin-plate (early models) / single-plate (later models may vary)
AWD Coupling:
Driver-controlled center differential (DCCD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Wheelbase:
104.1 inches (2644 mm)
Length:
173.8 inches (4415 mm) - Sedan / 173.2 inches (4399 mm) - Hatchback
Width:
70.7 inches (1796 mm)
Height:
58.1 inches (1476 mm) - Sedan / 58.3 inches (1481 mm) - Hatchback
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3373 lbs (1530 kg) - Sedan / 3373 lbs (1530 kg) - Hatchback
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4600 lbs (2087 kg)
Trunk Volume:
Approx. 11.3 cu ft (Sedan) / N/A (Hatchback, rear seats folded)
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5x114.3
Standard Wheel Size:
18 x 8.5 inches
Standard Tire Size:
245/40R18
NHTSA Overall Rating:
4/5 Stars (for 2013 model year general Impreza, specific STI ratings may vary)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brake-force Distribution
Vsc:
Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, side-impact, and curtain airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system
Head Unit:
Base infotainment system with CD player, AM/FM radio, auxiliary input, and optional navigation.
Speakers:
Standard 6-speaker audio system.
Traction Control:
Standard traction control and stability control systems.
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential provides manual control over torque distribution.
Auxiliary Input:
Standard 3.5mm auxiliary audio input.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3.75 months (severe conditions) / 7,500 miles or 7.5 months (normal conditions). Check manual for specific details.
Timing Belt Replacement:
105,000 miles or 105 months (for EJ257, verify with manual)
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (NGK Iridium) / 60,000 miles (NGK Long Life Iridium, check manual)
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 (synthetic recommended, e.g., Motul, Pennzoil Ultra Platinum, Valvoline SynPower)
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.1 US quarts (4.8 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (ensure compatibility with Brembo calipers)
Ringland Failure:
Can occur with improper tuning or aggressive driving; manual details proper engine break-in.
Clutch Wear:
Can be accelerated with aggressive clutch use; manual provides clutch inspection and replacement procedures.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ257 engines may consume oil; manual provides checks and troubleshooting for excessive consumption.