2018 Subaru WRX STi Limited new car reviews

Subaru's supercar-slaying sedan is back. Our test car was a Limited model, so it included blind spot detection, a Harman Kardon sound system and power Recaro seats.

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David S. Wallens
David S. Wallens
Editorial Director

The Subaru Impreza might now use the Subaru Global Platform, but the WRX continues to be based on the old car—and that’s totally fine with us. Despite a changing automotive landscape, the STI takes us back to a time before automatous vehicles, electric cars and Apple Carplay connectivity.

The WRX and WRX STI have been proven, stable beasts since they came stateside years ago. You know what you’re going to get. No surprises. No weirdness. They’re tools for going fast, whether on dirt, gravel or asphalt. Our recent time with the 2018 WRX STI confirmed all of those emotions.

There are some small changes for 2018 worth noting, though and, yes, I’m totally cribbing from Subaru’s media site:

“Revised front styling for a more aggressive look.” Yeah, I can see that. It looks like a Subaru yet at the same time doesn’t look like a facelift to an outgoing model. Subaru did a nice job taking the previous chassis into today’s times.

“Suspension optimized for better handling and ride comfort.” The STI rides nicely. For a performance car, the ride is comfortable. The STI didn’t beat us up. You could easily daily it–with the caveat, of course, that the quality of your local roads may vary.

“New 19-inch wheels, upgraded Brembo brakes and revised DCCD All-Wheel Drive give WRX STI wider performance envelope.” The new wheels look good. I didn’t get any gravel time with the car, but my time behind the wheel left me happy.

“New available Recaro seats with power driver’s seat.” Our car was so equipped and it was comfortable.

“Upgraded interior materials and quieter cabin.” Back in the day, the Impreza–and WRX as a result–had a bit of a no frills feel to it. It was a step or two above the Lancer, but it wasn’t BMW. The latest STI’s interior doesn’t feel cheap. It has moved upmarket.

Back in the day, the STI beat you up a tiny bit. It was edgier than the standard WRX. However, the tradeoff was increased performance. Today, I’m not sure if you have to make that sacrifice.

Tom Suddard
Tom Suddard
Publisher

I didn’t drive the STI much, but let me start with a strong statement anyway: This car drove exactly like a 2007 Subaru WRX STI. And you know what–that’s a good thing! I don’t particularly care for the latest generation’s looks, but it still drives with the heart of a boy racer, and I love that in a car. It’s loud, torquey, and flashy, and that big wing tells everybody you love loud noises and spending adult money on a kid’s car. Awesome. Plus, great exhaust noises, an awesome stereo, and comfortable seats. I’m pretty sure Subaru aimed this car at my demographic, but that’s fine with me. I’ll take mine in Blue, please.

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Comments
TAParker
TAParker Reader
10/3/17 5:32 p.m.

More Subaru builds, articles PLEASE!!!!

In reply to TAParker :

check out my build on my 91 legacy wagon...wrxish

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