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Motor Authority - blog Tag: STI

  • Report: Subaru Working On Hot STI Version of Joint Sports Coupe

    Report: Subaru Working On Hot STI Version of Joint Sports Coupe October 21st, 2009 By Nelson Ireson's avatar Nelson Ireson, Author, October 21st, 2009 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Report: Subaru Working On Hot STI Version of Joint Sports Coupe

    Spy shots have caught the car running around in what looks a lot more like Subaru guise than the Toyota FT-86 concept version revealed earlier this month, and talk of a special high-output model has been around almost as long as rumors of the new Subaru coupe have. But a new report cuts through the innuendo and claims an STI--Subaru Tecnica International, Subaru's in-house performance division--treatment that's good for 250 horsepower is already in the works.

    According to the newest report, the up-rated car still won't be turbocharged, however, with a 2.5-liter boxer engine doing the work. The extra half liter over the expected standard...

    Spy shots have caught the car running around in what looks a lot more like Subaru guise than the Toyota FT-86 concept version revealed earlier this month, and talk of a special high-output model has been around almost as long as rumors of the new Subaru coupe have. But a new report cuts through the innuendo and claims an STI--Subaru Tecnica International, Subaru's in-house performance division--treatment that's good for 250 horsepower is already in the works. According to the newest report, the up-rated car still won't be turbocharged, however, with a 2.5-liter boxer engine doing the work. The extra half liter over the expected standard 2.0-liter engine will translate into not very much more weight, so the extra 50 horsepower will be easily felt. Adding the cost, weight and complexity of a turbocharger would likely push the price too high and require output closer to 300 horsepower in order to achieve the desired performance. On the other hand, turbocharged cars are more easily modified for greater performance, and adding to the stock Subaru configuration is a long-standing tradition with die-hard brand loyalists. One possibility is that Subaru will introduce two up-rated models, much like the Impreza line features the WRX and STI. A 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated 250-horsepower car could slot between the base 2.0-liter car and a turbocharged version rated at up to 300 horsepower. In this scenario, the highest-performance model, much like the Impreza WRX STI would be targeted at a limited audience, and would command a premium price. We don't expect to see the new Subaru version of the joint sports coupe until the 2011 Tokyo Motor Show, but it should appear in concept form before then. The Subaru version hasn't yet been officially approved for production, however, meaning that all of these plans might yet come to naught. If the car is built, expect it to feature a standard six-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive and a starting price under $25,000 for the base 2.0-liter car. [Auto Express] Read More

  • Subaru holding WRX games in California

    Subaru holding WRX games in California July 31st, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, July 31st, 2009 Jeremy Weber 0 Comments

    Subaru holding WRX games in California Residents of California will be in for a treat this weekend when Subaru holds its first ever WRX games - an event that will feature a full day of Subarus and driving experiences. According to Todd Lawrence, the promotional manager for Subaru America, the WRX games will allow people to experience what it's like to be part of "the Subaru community".

    A number of activities will be held throughout the WRX games, but doubtless the highlight will be driving demonstrations from Subaru factory drivers, as well as guest drivers. Ken Block is already confirmed to be driving his Gymkhana 2 vehicle for the event, which is reason enough to check out the... Residents of California will be in for a treat this weekend when Subaru holds its first ever WRX games - an event that will feature a full day of Subarus and driving experiences. According to Todd Lawrence, the promotional manager for Subaru America, the WRX games will allow people to experience what it's like to be part of "the Subaru community". A number of activities will be held throughout the WRX games, but doubtless the highlight will be driving demonstrations from Subaru factory drivers, as well as guest drivers. Ken Block is already confirmed to be driving his Gymkhana 2 vehicle for the event, which is reason enough to check out the WRX games, but also present will be legendary drifter Steven Verdier and race-driver Kristian Skavnes. Apart from the driving demonstrations, there will also be some activities that allow WRX-games attendees to get behind the wheel, including a 2010 Legacy 2.5GT driving experience where Subaru will let drivers loose on a custom course. There will also be a Subaru Freestyle Gymkhana where visitors can drive alongside a professional driver and compete against other visitors in a timed driving competition. Finally, there will also be a video games center with Subaru racing games and a miniature rally stage complete with jumps - for remote-controlled Subaru cars that is. The WRX Games will take place Saturday, August 1, from 10-4 p.m. at the Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave, Pomona, California.Driven: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX Read More

  • Subaru launches new Impreza WRX STI Spec C in Japan

    Subaru launches new Impreza WRX STI Spec C in Japan July 23rd, 2009 By Viknesh Vijayenthiran Viknesh Vijayenthiran, Author, July 23rd, 2009 Viknesh Vijayenthiran 4 Comments

    Subaru launches new Impreza WRX STI Spec C in Japan We first heard about the latest edition Spec C as far back as April 2008 when reports emerged claiming Subaru was working on building a lighter and more hardcore version of the new Impreza WRX STI. Today, the automaker has released the first details of the car, which goes on sale in Japan this week.

    Based on the Impreza WRX STI, the new Spec C model features enhanced engine and chassis performance as well as a lighter body derived from the automaker’s motorsports program. The turbocharger also gets new ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, and the ECU program was also exclusively tuned.

    Thus the engine of the spec C model... We first heard about the latest edition Spec C as far back as April 2008 when reports emerged claiming Subaru was working on building a lighter and more hardcore version of the new Impreza WRX STI. Today, the automaker has released the first details of the car, which goes on sale in Japan this week. Based on the Impreza WRX STI, the new Spec C model features enhanced engine and chassis performance as well as a lighter body derived from the automaker’s motorsports program. The turbocharger also gets new ball bearings for the turbine axle bearing, and the ECU program was also exclusively tuned. Thus the engine of the spec C model provides quicker response and improved accelerating performance. Peak output from the turbocharged 2.0L four-banger stands at 304hp (227kW) and 311lb-ft (422Nm) of torque. Thanks to its specially designed front and rear suspension and improved body rigidity, the chassis offers stable and linear driving control even when traction reaches its limits. Engineers have also swapped the standard model’s Torsen type rear limited slip differential for a mechanical type to obtain the steady and powerful traction during cornering. Furthermore, the adoption of an aluminum engine hood, laminar window panels and a downsized battery resulted in a lighter body, which further improves the model’s driving performance. Other changes include newly designed 19in wheels, the addition of a flat tire repair kit instead of a full-sized spare, gold-colored Brembo brakes, Alcantara and leather Recaro seats, and two new exclusive colors; Sunrise Yellow and Pure White. Only 900 cars are planned for production and there’s no word on whether the Spec C will be launched in other markets.Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C Read More

  • Subaru celebrates 20 years of STI division with new museum

    Subaru celebrates 20 years of STI division with new museum June 8th, 2009 ByJeremy Weber Jeremy Weber, Author, June 8th, 2009 Jeremy Weber 0 Comments

    Subaru celebrates 20 years of STI division with new museum For over 20 years Subaru's motorsports division STI (Subaru Tecnica International) has been churning out championship-winning rally cars and incredible road-going versions that have impressed scores of motor journalists and customers alike. Now, to commemorate its work with Subaru models, the STI division will be getting its own special museum in Tokyo with a number of exclusive STI models on show to keep fans salivating whenever they visit.

    Named rather simply as the STI Gallery, the new museum will give visitors an insight into the history of Subaru's STI division, along with actual STI production models and racing vehicles that have... For over 20 years Subaru's motorsports division STI (Subaru Tecnica International) has been churning out championship-winning rally cars and incredible road-going versions that have impressed scores of motor journalists and customers alike. Now, to commemorate its work with Subaru models, the STI division will be getting its own special museum in Tokyo with a number of exclusive STI models on show to keep fans salivating whenever they visit. Named rather simply as the STI Gallery, the new museum will give visitors an insight into the history of Subaru's STI division, along with actual STI production models and racing vehicles that have appeared throughout the past 20 years. One of the highlights is the late Colin McRae's Subaru Legacy RS model that he drove to take out victory in the 8th round of the World Rally Championships in 1993. The actual museum is split up into three different areas, including the 'Car Exhibition' area where a number of STI production models and past racing models are held to show the division’s continuing work with Subaru. There is also an 'STI Concept' area, where enthusiasts will be able to view a number of exhibits including bits and pieces from STI racing cars and other related motorsport objects. There will also be an 'STI History' area where visitors can track the division’s progress throughout the years, from its inception to the present day. The new STI Gallery is located in the Mitaka district of Tokyo, at the same location where Subaru's parent company Fuji Heavy Industries runs its local office. Read More

  • Video: The Building of Ken Block's Gymkhana 2 WRX STI

    Video: The Building of Ken Block's Gymkhana 2 WRX STI May 26th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, May 26th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Video: The Building of Ken Block's Gymkhana 2 WRX STI Every automotive enthusiast with an internet connection has likely seen the video of Ken Block drifting his Subaru Impreza WRX STI around a closed airbase Gymkhana style - it's the sort of stuff that builds legends. But for Ken Block, that's not enough, and he's planning a second video that promises even more incredible displays of car control.

    The video below is the second teaser for the upcoming exhibition, and while it doesn't show any actual sideways, backwards, tire-smoking, pirouetting, donuts-around-a-moving-Segway action, it does document Crawford Performance's tear-down and build-up of the stock 2009 Subaru WRX STI that will be... Every automotive enthusiast with an internet connection has likely seen the video of Ken Block drifting his Subaru Impreza WRX STI around a closed airbase Gymkhana style - it's the sort of stuff that builds legends. But for Ken Block, that's not enough, and he's planning a second video that promises even more incredible displays of car control. The video below is the second teaser for the upcoming exhibition, and while it doesn't show any actual sideways, backwards, tire-smoking, pirouetting, donuts-around-a-moving-Segway action, it does document Crawford Performance's tear-down and build-up of the stock 2009 Subaru WRX STI that will be used for filming. Enjoy.Ken Block Gymkhana 2 WRX STI build video Read More

  • Subaru prepping WRX STI to take on 24 hours at the 'Ring

    Subaru prepping WRX STI to take on 24 hours at the 'Ring April 17th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, April 17th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 1 Comment

    Subaru prepping WRX STI to take on 24 hours at the 'Ring World Rally Championship racing won't see a Subaru factory team this year, but the 37th ADAC Zurich 24 Hour Race - a 24-hour race at the Nurburgring - will. The 200-car field will include a factory-built WRX STI that's hitting the track in the name of data collection and development.

    Of course, winning is also the objective, with the 2.0L (EJ20) turbocharged boxer engine putting the car into the SP3T class. The chassis and body are original production pieces, but Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has added a few enhancements to make the car more race-worthy.

    Starting with a 'flexible tower bar' and stiffening the chassis, the engineers... World Rally Championship racing won't see a Subaru factory team this year, but the 37th ADAC Zurich 24 Hour Race - a 24-hour race at the Nurburgring - will. The 200-car field will include a factory-built WRX STI that's hitting the track in the name of data collection and development. Of course, winning is also the objective, with the 2.0L (EJ20) turbocharged boxer engine putting the car into the SP3T class. The chassis and body are original production pieces, but Subaru Tecnica International (STI) has added a few enhancements to make the car more race-worthy. Starting with a 'flexible tower bar' and stiffening the chassis, the engineers have also lightened the car and installed a wide range of safety equipment including a roll cage, window net, racing harness and fire suppression system. Four Japanese drivers - Kazuo Shimizu, Toshihiro Yoshida, Naoki Hattori and Koji Matsuda - will take the wheel during the 24-hour run, helping the engineers and the rest of the STI team not only to victory, but to a better understanding of what makes a racing WRX STI tick.Subaru WRX STI 24-hour Nurburgring race car Read More

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