Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, performance tuning community, DIY mechanics, professional workshops.
Key Competitors 2008:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI), Volkswagen GTI, Mazdaspeed3.
Performance Focus:
Subaru's iconic Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system and turbocharged boxer engine define its performance pedigree.
Rally Heritage:
Directly benefits from Subaru's extensive World Rally Championship (WRC) heritage, translating into robust engineering for demanding use.
Driver Engagement:
Focus on driver feedback, precise handling, and a powerful, responsive powertrain.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing belt/chain, lubrication system, cooling system.
Engine Performance Tuning:
Turbocharger system, intercooler, ECU (Engine Control Unit) diagnostics and parameters, fuel injection, ignition system.
Transmission:
6-speed manual gearbox, clutch system, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials).
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension (McPherson struts, multi-link), sway bars, bushings, power steering system, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (including Brembo calipers on STI models), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), parking brake.
Electrical Electronics:
Complete wiring diagrams, ECU pinouts, sensors, actuators, starter, alternator, battery, lighting systems, audio system, power accessories.
Body Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, structural components, interior trim, glass, doors, hood, trunk lid, chassis lubrication.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel lines, injectors, fuel pressure regulator.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common symptoms, fault code interpretation (OBD-II), diagnostic connector locations.
Repair Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine rebuilds, transmission overhaul, suspension component replacement, brake caliper rebuild.
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, circuit tracing, use of multimeters and oscilloscopes, ABS/VDC system diagnostics.
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, welding procedures (if applicable for chassis), bumper repair, glass replacement.
Tire Wheel Service:
Tire mounting and balancing, wheel torque specifications, alignment procedures.
Depth:
Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics.
Detail Level:
Factory-level detail with torque specifications, clearances, assembly sequences, and electrical schematics.
Configuration:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer), 4-Cylinder
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Aspiration:
Turbocharged and Intercooled
Horsepower Hp:
305 hp @ 6000 RPM (approx.)
Torque Lb Ft:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (approx.)
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) - Specific model varies by market, but generally programmable for tuning.
NHTSA Frontal Crash:
5-Star Driver, 4-Star Passenger (for comparable Impreza models of that era, STI specific data may vary slightly)
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Good (for comparable Impreza models of that era)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Ebd:
Standard Electronic Brakeforce Distribution
Traction Control:
Standard Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, front and rear side-curtain airbags.
Seatbelts:
3-point height-adjustable front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, rear 3-point seatbelts.
Child Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) system.
Oil Change Miles:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe duty/enthusiast driving), 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving).
Air Filter Replacement Miles:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement Miles:
Every 30,000 miles (iridium tip).
Timing Belt Inspection Miles:
Inspect every 30,000 miles. Replacement interval typically around 105,000 miles, but critical to follow manual specifics.
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 0W-30 Synthetic (API SG, SH, SJ, SL, SM or ILSAC GF-2, GF-3, GF-4 compliant)
Engine Oil Capacity Quarts:
5.5 (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Transmission Fluid Type:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (Specific Subaru gear oil recommended).
Differential Fluid Type:
API GL-5, SAE 75W-90 Synthetic Gear Oil (Front and Rear).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Piston Ring Land Failure:
A known potential issue in some EJ257 engines, particularly with aggressive tuning or lack of proper maintenance. Manual will detail inspection procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Can be subject to accelerated wear with aggressive driving or frequent clutch engagement.
Rear Differential Clunk:
Some owners report a clunking noise from the rear differential, often related to backlash in the gears. Manual covers fluid changes and potential adjustments.
Subaru Motorsports:
Subaru's long and successful history in motorsport, particularly the WRC, directly influences the STI's development and capabilities.
Third Generation Hatchback:
The 2008 model year marked the introduction of the third-generation Impreza, significantly changing its styling and introducing the hatchback option alongside the sedan.
Performance Enhancements:
The STI variant received increased power, upgraded suspension, and the advanced DCCD system compared to the standard WRX.
Manufacturing Location:
Ota City, Gunma Prefecture, Japan