Subaru WRX STi (VAB) - 2018 facelift

The Subaru WRX STi has been proven to be a track-proven sportscar that works not just for rallycross purposes but also tackling racetracks such as the Nurburgring, just to demonstrate the full capability of Subaru's Symmetrical AWD on and off the road as well as on the track, and for the 2018 minor change, it has elevated further.

2018 Subaru WRX STi

2018 Subaru WRX STi

The new 2018MY Subaru WRX STi has been given a revised front design that brings out the sporty character as Subaru's flagship high-performance sports saloon built for speedo boys from across the globe apart from the revised front face comes with yellow-painted brake calipers reminiscent of the WRX Concept a few years ago. It may not do justice but the new look begs us for more WRX STi action than seeing it by ourselves.

2018 Subaru WRX STi interior

2018 Subaru WRX STi interior

As for the inside, there have been some slight changes around the dashboard, and just by noticing the new, larger high-definition multi-function display, as well as the new auto climate control, it's easier to spot the difference between the old and the new. Also, the revised interior comes with new RECARO sports seats that match the WRX STi's sporty flavor and because speedo boys love a car that has a RECARO on it, this WRX STi is the ultimate expression of a speedo boy's car that they can take it on track days or midnight drives with the other speedo boys.

It still has the same EJ20 BOXER DOHC 16-Valve Dual AVCS Twin Scroll Turbo as the last time, producing 308PS of power, 422Nm of torque, and 9.4km/L of fuel economy while mated exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox standard. It also still comes with the Active Torque Vectoring applies brake pressure to the front wheel while the Vehicle Dynamics Control provides more settings such as VDC Normal, Traction, and Off, each providing lesser degrees of system engagement. Easier said than done but the 2018 model comes with retuned suspension as well as its new DCCD AWD System, which now uses electronic control for quicker and smoother response. The yellow brake calipers in question is known as the improved Brembo Performance Brake System with stronger monoblock 6-piston calipers in front, monoblock 2-piston calipers in the rear, and larger, drilled rotors all around for better heat dissipation. It also comes with new brake pads for better-stopping power with a bit more feel.

While designated as a speedo boy's car, the WRX STi can be offered with the Advances Safety Package, which comes with Subaru Rear Vehicle Direction, High Beam Assist, Front and Side View Monitor, as well as headlamps that turn left or right when you turn the steering wheel,

The new 2018 Subaru WRX STi starts at 3,866,400 Yen (tax included) and you can spec it out with optional extras including a rear wing that completes the WRX STi look you expect from Subaru's best.

Photo: Subaru Corporation