Positioning:
Performance sedan/coupe, rally-bred homologation special, enthusiast vehicle.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Ford Focus RS, VW Golf R.
Performance Focus:
Turbocharged Boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, advanced differential systems.
Driving Dynamics:
Legendary handling, driver-focused cockpit, responsive steering.
Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, independent repair shops, performance tuners.
Distinctiveness:
Provides dealership-level technical data not typically available to the public.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul, component replacement (pistons, rods, crankshaft, valves, camshafts), timing belt/chain system, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Management:
ECU diagnostics, fuel injection system, ignition system, emission control systems (catalytic converter, EGR, secondary air injection), sensors and actuators.
Transmission Manual:
Driveshaft, differential, gearbox overhaul, clutch replacement, shift linkage.
Transmission Automatic:
Not applicable for this STI model.
Drivetrain AWD:
Center differential, viscous coupling, rear differential, hub assemblies, CV joints.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, springs, control arms, bushings, sway bars), alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Brake system hydraulics, ABS system, rotor and pad replacement, caliper overhaul, brake bleeding procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, tie rods, wheel alignment.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power windows, locks, HVAC controls, audio system.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seats, dashboard components, glass replacement.
HVAC:
Air conditioning system, heating system, blower motor, climate controls, refrigerant handling.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, fluid checks and changes, brake inspections.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts for common issues, symptom-based problem diagnosis.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component replacement, system repair, and adjustments.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), sensor data interpretation, scan tool usage.
Rebuilds:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilding, including torque specifications and clearances.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Expert level, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Scope:
Full vehicle service and repair, from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds.
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed Turbocharged (Boxer)
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Horsepower Est:
300 hp @ 6000 rpm (SAE Net)
Torque Est:
300 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (SAE Net)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point Fuel Injection (MPI), Electronic Throttle Control (ETC)
Turbocharger:
IHI VF30 (or similar depending on market), Intercooled
Cylinder Head:
Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC), 16 valves
Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SG or SH)
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 L) with filter
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4/5 Stars (Driver/Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
4/5 Stars (Front/Rear Passenger)
IIHS Crashworthiness:
Good (Frontal Offset)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD).
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS) and Vehicle Stability Control (VDC).
Airbags Front:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Airbags Side:
Optional front side-impact airbags (market dependent)
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Body Structure:
Reinforced unibody construction with front and rear crumple zones.
Head Unit:
Factory AM/FM/CD player, optional premium audio system.
Display:
Basic digital display for clock, temperature, and audio information.
Cruise Control:
Standard electronic cruise control.
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Center Differential provides advanced AWD torque management.
Bluetooth:
Not standard, aftermarket integration common.
Gauge Cluster:
Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature gauge, and multi-function display.
Boost Gauge:
Integrated factory boost gauge in the center console or dashboard.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles (6,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first (under severe driving conditions).
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles (24,000 km), replace as needed.
Cabin Air Filter:
Replace every 15,000 miles (24,000 km) or 12 months.
Spark Plugs:
Iridium type: 105,000 miles (168,000 km).
Timing Belt:
Not applicable. Uses a timing chain.
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) or 24 months (for performance use).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru Genuine ATF-HP or Dexron III compatible
Differential Fluid Type:
GL-5 75W-90 Gear Oil (Front and Rear)
Head Gaskets:
Less prone to failure than earlier EJ series engines, but still a potential concern under high heat/stress.
Ringland Failure:
Common issue on EJ257 engines, especially if modified or run with improper fueling/tuning, leading to piston ringland damage.
Clutch Wear:
Can wear prematurely with aggressive driving or repeated launches.
Turbocharger Failure:
Can occur due to lack of oil changes or improper warm-up/cool-down procedures.
Car And Driver 10Best:
The Impreza WRX (non-STI) was a frequent recipient of Car and Driver's 10Best list, highlighting its performance-to-value ratio.
Sports Car International World Performance Car:
The STI variant received accolades for its rally-bred performance and handling capabilities.
Jdpowers Initial Quality:
Generally average to below average for initial quality during its production years, typical for performance vehicles.
Emissions Standards:
Compliant with EPA and CARB emissions standards for its model year.