MISSISSAUGA, ON, Aug. 13, 2013 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce the release of the 2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. Ultimately it's all about power and control, and the 2014 WRX STI continues as the ultimate-performance Subaru with its high-boost 305 horsepower turbocharged/intercooled SUBARU BOXER engine teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission and the exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru's symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system.
New for the 2014 model year, the WRX STI adds a new edition to its lineup. Named for a traditional Japanese two-sided broadsword, the Tsurugi (pronounced TSUE-roo-ghee) edition gains its fitting moniker as the addition with enhancements to both the performance esthetics and styling of the WRX STI. Launched exclusively for the Canadian market, this new addition is the sophisticated, executive edition of the WRX STI lineup. This new trim introduces 18-inch Enkei cast alloy wheels with a distinctive five-split-spoke design, multi-reflector halogen fog lights, Xenon high-intensity discharge (HID) headlights and mirror-integrated LED turn signals. While the rear spoiler has been removed, an exclusively designed front lip spoiler has been added, rectifying airflow passing below the front bumper to generate downforce and improve stability at high speeds. Inside, the Tsurugi edition gains a power sunroof and automatic climate control for greater comfort, auto-dimming mirror for enhanced safety, and SIRIUS XM Radio as well as a Kicker 10-inch subwoofer to enhance the sound system. For the first time ever in the WRX STI lineup, this special edition also introduces leather seating surfaces for the discerning driver. Tsurugi edition models will be easily identifiable by unique badging, exclusive to this trim level.
Control and Confidence
The WRX STI design is based on a "wide and low" concept that gives the car an aggressive road presence with wide front and rear track dimensions, as well as pronounced front fenders and rear quarter panels. The design maintains a consistent flow from front to rear bumper, creating a distinctive identity.
On the WRX STI 4-door sedan model, wide fenders stretch wider than the tail lamps, and this accentuates a look of stability. A striking high profile rear spoiler was exclusively designed for the STI 4-door. The design contributes to an appropriately low drag coefficient, and the rear spoiler design means stable high-speed handling with zero lift. The WRX STI 4-door features its own version of the polished stainless steel quad-tailpipe exhaust.
The WRX STI delivers ultra-crisp handling along with everyday ride compliance. High-tensile strength steel is used at key structural points and the suspension-mounting areas. Inverted struts used for the front suspension provide high bending resistance for quicker and more consistent performance under hard cornering. Aluminum front lower L-arms reduce unsprung vehicle weight.
A specially tuned suspension uses pillow-ball bushings in front and stiff bushings for the rear subframe that supports the double-wishbone suspension - these improve camber and toe stiffness.
The 2014 WRX STI features Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 summer performance tires with 18-inch Enkei aluminum wheels in a charcoal finish on the entry model or a distinctive five-split-spoke design on the four-door Tsurugi edition, as well as a high-lustre finish on the five-door Sport-tech Package.
The WRX STI is equipped with advanced dynamic control systems, including Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) and a Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which features a track performance-optimized mode. Hill Holder, featured on all Impreza models equipped with a manual transmission, can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.
SI-DRIVE Offers Ultimate Control
Exclusive to the WRX STI models, Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) technology allows the driver to tailor the car's driving characteristics by choosing from among three selectable modes - Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp - using a rotary dial on the centre console. SI-DRIVE alters vehicle performance characteristics by regulating the Engine Control Module (ECM) and by fine-tuning the Electronic Throttle Control system. With Intelligent mode selected, SI-DRIVE improves fuel efficiency and provides a more relaxed throttle response curve, making it useful for commuting in traffic, for example.
Sport mode provides quick throttle responses and powerful, linear acceleration, making it ideal for everyday sporty driving. In Sport Sharp mode, SI-DRIVE modifies the engine's electronic throttle mapping to deliver super-quick throttle response to put down the power sooner.
Multi-Mode DCCD All-Wheel Drive with Three-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control
The 2014 WRX STI is exclusively equipped with the Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive. The system employs planetary-type differential gears with a maximum 41:59 torque split. A mechanical limited-slip type centre differential augments an electronically controlled centre differential to enhance torque transfer performance. Sensor inputs that include steering angle, throttle position, RPM, lateral g, yaw, brake, ABS and wheel speed govern torque transfer response. A helical-type limited-slip front differential and a TORSEN torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential optimize side-to-side power distribution, helping to prevent the inside wheels from slipping during cornering.
The DCCD AWD system features three automatic modes. Auto mode provides the best all-around performance for most drivers and circumstances, varying the front/rear torque distribution automatically via the limited-slip differential (LSD) in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage. The Auto(-) mode makes less use of the centre limited-slip differential (less locking factor) and holds the torque bias to the rear more frequently, which yields more handling-oriented steering characteristics. For driving on slippery surfaces, such as gravel or snow, the Auto(+) setting tightens the LSD. In manual mode, DCCD offers six levels of centre differential locking, allowing the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution (up to 50/50 maximum) to optimize AWD performance for varying driving conditions.
The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard on all Subaru models. It is important to note that, in Subaru vehicles, traction control plays a second line of defence against wheel slip after AWD torque distribution. In contrast, some All-Wheel Drive systems on the market lack the performance advantage of a locking centre differential and rely solely on traction control to redistribute torque away from slipping wheels.
Exclusive to the WRX STI, the Multi-Mode VDC system offers the driver three settings: VDC Normal, Traction, and Off. The Normal setting provides the highest level of system engagement, with traction control (TCS) and VDC. The Traction setting is more performance-oriented, employing less-restrictive VDC and disengaging the engine torque-reduction control. The Off setting disengages the VDC and the traction control functions.
Also exclusive to the WRX STI, the Brembo Performance Brake System uses ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes with Super Sport anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Front discs measure 326 mm (13.0 inches) in diameter and use 4-piston, fixed-position calipers; the 316 mm (12.6 inch) rear discs use 2-piston, fixed-position calipers. Taking input from a lateral g-sensor, a steering angle sensor, a yaw sensor and a brake pressure sensor, Super Sport ABS can control the braking forces at each rear wheel independently, which optimizes braking ability during hard cornering to help reduce understeer. In contrast, conventional ABS systems control the rear wheels as a pair, reducing the braking force to both rear wheels equally.
Sporty, Spacious and Versatile Interior
The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather-wrapped design embossed with the STI logo in its centre. WRX STI models are further equipped with standard aluminum alloy pedals, driver's footrest and leather-wrapped gear selector. The instrument panel's electroluminescent gauges use indicator needles that sweep the gauge faces upon engine start-up. Performance-design front seats integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure and are heated for added comfort in colder temperatures. An advanced AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with six speakers is standard. This system also includes a MediaHub for iPod/USB audio integration with Bluetooth streaming audio and a voice-activated Bluetooth system for mobile phone connectivity.
The compact layout of the double-wishbone rear suspension helps to minimize intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wide and deep luggage compartment. In the 5-door models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two tour-size golf bags with the rear seat backs in the upright position. In the 4-door sedan model, which is 165 mm (6.5 inches) longer than the 5-door, the extra space provides for a larger, deeper trunk that can accommodate three tour-size golf bags. A 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience, and the 4-door also features a rear seat folding centre armrest.
For 2014, the 5-door WRX STI Sport-tech Package features a Pioneer AVIC connect in-dash touchscreen navigation system, smartphone integration, AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA Bluetooth streaming audio, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with steering wheel-integrated controls and Pioneer TS-A1684R front speakers.
Subaru Safety
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) provides precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Brake Assist analyzes the force and stroke on the brake pedal and increases hydraulic boost to provide enhanced emergency braking, also activating the ABS system early if needed.
All Impreza models utilize the proven advanced Subaru ring-shaped reinforcement frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones. Front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard on all Subaru models. The Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) features a passenger side front seat sensor module that detects seat occupancy and passenger weight to control airbag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features an airbag indicator light. There are 3-point seatbelts for all seating positions, including front height-adjustable seatbelts with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters.
About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of over 85 authorized dealers across Canada. For more information on the entire Subaru lineup, including complete specifications, please go to www.subaru.ca.
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Tsurugi Edition (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130813_C5665_PHOTO_EN_29807.jpg
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Tsurugi Edition (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130813_C5665_PHOTO_EN_29809.jpg
Image with caption: "2014 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Tsurugi Edition (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20130813_C5665_PHOTO_EN_29811.jpg
SOURCE: Subaru Canada Inc.
Joe Felstein or Julie Lychak
(905) 568-4959
Amyot Bachand
Media Relations, Quebec Region
(514) 691-9276
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