PRESS RELEASE:
FHI Introduces All-New Subaru Impreza WRX STI
Tokyo, October 24, 2007 – Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), the maker of Subaru automobiles, has
announced the introduction of its all-new Subaru Impreza WRX STI in Japan. The new WRX STI went on
sale nationwide through Subaru dealerships today.
Advancing FHI’s theme of producing the complete driver’s car and embodying the essence of total driving
control, the third-generation Impreza WRX STI has debuted with complete makeovers in its design, engine,
chassis and features. Benefiting from Subaru’s signature Symmetrical AWD and the Horizontally-Opposed
Boxer engine, the new WRX STI is an innovative AWD sports model that delivers a combination of joy of
driving and pride of ownership.
The new five-door model features not only a greatly refined engine and suspension but new mechanisms such
as the multi-mode Driver’s Control Center Differential (DCCD) and multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control
(VDC). Also, the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (Subaru DC3) has been further developed for
the WRX STI in order to maximize performance and driving pleasure and to ensure high levels of driver
satisfaction through total control of the vehicle.
The vehicle’s interior and exterior design expresses sophistication and refined functionality. The widened
body flares give an irresistible presence, integrating function and beauty, while the interior design stresses
high quality and a sporty image. In addition, the Impreza WRX STI features advancements in the areas of
environment, safety, and comfort, all of which match FHI’s goal of delivering exceptional performance and
enjoyable and dependable drivability with environmental considerations in all Subarus.
The first-generation WRX STI model was based on the first Impreza WRX and was developed by Subaru
Tecnica International (STI), an FHI subsidiary specialized in motorsports activities. Since its introduction in
1994, the WRX STI has established a solid reputation as a high-performance sports model. In the FIA World
Rally Championship (WRC) that requires participants to compete with production-based models, Subaru
WRX STI models have proven their credentials by bringing Subaru three consecutive Manufacturers’
championship titles from 1995 to 1997. In this context, FHI plans to submit a Group N homologation
application effective as of January 1, 2008 for the new WRX STI to FIA.
The introduction of the new WRX STI has completed the full lineup of the Impreza series in Japan. The
Impreza 15S, 20S and S-GT models have been available since June 2007, each offering individual strengths
in performance and comfort.
Major Features
1. Design
[Exterior design]
Styled around the concept of "Pure Form for Driving", the widened body flares accentuate the 5-door body
taken from the new Impreza. A deep-set character line, running along the side from the front bumper to the
rear end, and a pronounced edge shape reflects light and shadows and gives the car a different look
depending on the time of day. While retaining a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, the front and back
fenders are prominently projected, creating a distinctive identity and gives the WRX a unique road presence.
Aerodynamically improved body styling with a large rear spoiler optimizes the balance between the front and
the rear quarter panels by reducing wind resistance. An aerodynamically curved form from the front bumper
to the front fenders helps minimize lift forces and contributes to maintaining vehicle stability at high speeds.
Engine compartment ventilation is provided on both sides of the front bumper and along the rear edges of the
fenders.
The strong front grille employs a sharp wing shape with metallic mesh, suggesting the car’s inherent
sportiness. The rear garnish is painted in the body color, enhancing the widened body shape. The rear edges
of the front fenders are embellished with STI logo plated in cherry red.
The muffler comes with twin dual-tail pipes. Eye-catching 18-inch aluminum-cast wheels, distinguished by
their five spokes and highlighted by dark-tone high-luster paint,
