Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, Performance Drivers, DIY Mechanics, Professional Technicians
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen Golf R, Ford Focus RS (though often categorized slightly differently due to AWD focus)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)
Engine:
High-performance turbocharged boxer engine
Suspension:
STI-tuned performance suspension for superior handling
Brakes:
Performance Brembo braking system
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Subaru's successful World Rally Championship (WRC) program
Powertrain:
Engine (EJ257), Turbocharger System, Exhaust System, Fuel System, Cooling System
Drivetrain:
All-Wheel Drive System (Symmetrical AWD), Differential Units (Front, Center DCCD, Rear), Driveshafts, Axles
Transmission:
6-Speed Manual Transmission (TY856)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson Struts, Rear Double Wishbone, STI-specific Tuning, Springs, Dampers, Bushings
Brakes:
Front 6-Piston Brembo Calipers, Rear 2-Piston Brembo Calipers, ABS, EBD, Brake Fluid Specifications
Steering:
Power Assisted Rack and Pinion, Steering Column Components
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Ignition System, Lighting, Fuses, Relays, ECUs, Wiring Diagrams, CAN Bus System
Body And Chassis:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis Structure, Sound Deadening
Interior:
Seating, Dashboard, Trim Panels, Airbags, Seatbelts, HVAC System
Diagnostics:
OBD-II Procedures, DTC Codes, Scan Tool Usage, Sensor Testing
Engine Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Piston Ring Replacement, Valve Adjustment, Timing Belt/Chain Service, Turbocharger Rebuild/Replacement
Transmission Repair:
Clutch Replacement, Gearbox Rebuild, Differential Service, DCCD System Adjustment
Brake Service:
Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Caliper Overhaul, Bleeding Procedures, ABS Component Testing
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Strut Replacement, Bushing Replacement, Wheel Alignment Specifications, Power Steering System Service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring Harness Repair, Sensor Troubleshooting, ECU Diagnosis, Component Testing
Body And Interior Repair:
Panel Replacement, Dent Repair, Trim Installation, Airbag System Diagnosis
Routine Maintenance:
Oil Changes, Filter Replacements, Spark Plug Service, Fluid Checks and Replenishment
Troubleshooting:
System-specific diagnostic flowcharts and fault isolation procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and specifications.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced, including ECU learning/reset procedures, sensor data interpretation, and detailed electrical system troubleshooting.
Rebuild Procedures:
Detailed steps for major component overhauls, including torque specifications, clearances, and assembly sequences.
Engine Type:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-Cylinder, Turbocharged, Intercooled
Displacement:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Valve Train:
DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder, Variable Valve Lift and Timing (AVCS)
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
290 lb-ft (393 Nm) @ 4000 rpm
Induction:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) with Turbocharging
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Pump:
High-flow, in-tank electric fuel pump
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.0 US quarts (4.7 Liters) with filter change
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (per Subaru specification)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent HOAT coolant
IIHS Rating:
Good (various categories, check specific model year reports)
NHTSA Rating:
4-Star Overall (check specific model year reports)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Traction Control:
Multi-mode Traction Control System (TCS)
Stability Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with STI tuning
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with DCCD for enhanced traction and stability
Airbags:
Front, Side, Curtain Airbags; Driver's Knee Airbag
Seatbelts:
Pretensioners and Load Limiters
Body Structure:
High-strength steel body structure
Head Unit:
Subaru's infotainment system with 6.1-inch touchscreen (standard on STI), Bluetooth connectivity, USB port.
Audio System:
Available 9-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.
Eyesight System:
Not typically available on the performance-focused WRX STI for this model year. Focus is on driver engagement.
Rearview Camera:
Standard on most trims for 2015.
Bluetooth:
Standard for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
Usb Ports:
Standard for device charging and media playback.
Si Drive:
Subaru Intelligent Drive system allowing driver selection of Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp modes, affecting throttle response, VDC, and DCCD behavior.
Dccd Control:
Manual control of the center differential's locking force for various driving conditions.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving) or 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving), though performance driving may warrant more frequent changes. Consult manual.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months, or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (iridium type recommended).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000 miles (manual transmission), check AWD fluid and differential fluid intervals in manual.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid
Power Steering Fluid:
Subaru Genuine ATF or equivalent DEXRON III/MERCON compatible fluid
Piston Ring Land Cracks:
A known concern in some EJ25 engines, particularly when subjected to aggressive tuning or abuse. Proper maintenance and avoiding detonation are crucial.
Clutch Wear:
Can be accelerated with aggressive driving. The manual covers inspection and replacement procedures.
Dccd Actuator Issues:
Less common, but electronic issues can arise with the DCCD system. The manual details diagnostic steps.
Suspension Bushings:
Like many performance cars, bushings can wear over time, affecting handling. Manual covers replacement.