Looks like this rumor of a "hot" Subaru diesel is taking off. Latest word from UK's Auto Express
has it that there will be an STI diesel!Besides the already announced 148 hp version, AE is reporting that there will also be a 180 hp STI version that will scoot from 0-60 in seven seconds, top out at 140 mph—and get 45 mpg! Now that's imperial gallons, but even so, that makes for a pretty darn impressive Impreza! Torque is expected to be around 400Nm (295 lb-ft), which is up 5 lb-ft from the current STI engine...
Personally I think it should be labeled a WRX, and not an STI. The 0-60 time, while certainly great for a diesel, is more WRX-like than STI-like.
Full story here.
Also...
Might there be a 4-door sedan version of the STI in the works?
Yes, according to this PDF from Subaru of Germany. If you look under the 4-door listing (4-Türer), you will see a 2.0 WRX STI Limited being mentioned. My guess is that the "Limited" part means a moonroof and leather.
So, if this STI sedan variant is being offered in Germany, that must mean we'll see it in other markets too, and most likely here as well.
Also indicated on this PDF is the first indication that the Impreza "sedan" will be sold in Europe. When the new Impreza was launched, only the US and Canada got the sedan. I know Australia and New Zealand were to get the sedan sometime after the initial launch, and now it looks like Europe is to get it as well.
Full story here.
Also...
Might there be a 4-door sedan version of the STI in the works?
Yes, according to this PDF from Subaru of Germany. If you look under the 4-door listing (4-Türer), you will see a 2.0 WRX STI Limited being mentioned. My guess is that the "Limited" part means a moonroof and leather.
So, if this STI sedan variant is being offered in Germany, that must mean we'll see it in other markets too, and most likely here as well.
Also indicated on this PDF is the first indication that the Impreza "sedan" will be sold in Europe. When the new Impreza was launched, only the US and Canada got the sedan. I know Australia and New Zealand were to get the sedan sometime after the initial launch, and now it looks like Europe is to get it as well.
estreka says:
02:31 PM, 02/25/08
Good. Though I'm not that impressed with a diesel that gets such low hp and the torque is roughly the same as the gas engine. The mileage is skeptical, too.
I think it's a very good idea to offer an STI sedan. I'm guessing it'll only be offered in Europe for the time being? Seems backward.
SubyTrojan says:
02:49 PM, 02/25/08
"Seems backward."
That's the Subaru way! :o)
kurtamaxxxguy says:
09:14 AM, 02/26/08
Very interesting. Should help give buyers a broader choice in engines, and in vehicle temperments.
tlcruz says:
04:24 PM, 02/26/08
I would love to see a 4 door STI here!!! My boyfriend might kill to get it but all is well, for now. :p lol
ateixeira says:
09:58 AM, 02/27/08
4 door would be to counter the Evo, which may get a 5 door model and encroach on Subaru's turf.
Diesel STI? I dunno if Subaru should be following Audi (again).
The hybrids that succeeded in the US were the economy ones, not the performance ones. I bet it's the same way with diesels.