Sedan and hatchback versions of the new, wide-track 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX were also in Subaru's booth today at the New York Auto Show, but of course all the attention centered on the new STI sedan and its massive rear wing.
Lighting wasn't the best for the bright red WRX sedan and hatch, but in person, they wear the wider track and bulgy fenders quite well. No longer need one feel ashamed for driving off in a regular-strength Impreza WRX. The cars go on sale in August. More photos after the jump.
rsholland says:
04:54 AM, 04/ 2/10
I agree Erin. I was there on Wednesday, and a chance to really study the new WRX. It really does look good. I'm especially happy to see Subaru increase the track on this vehicle by about 1.5 inches. That, combined with the wider 17x8 rims and larger 235/45x17 tires, really help the looks. Along with the other suspension upgrades, the track numbers should really improve.
I'm hoping Inside Line will do a comparison test of the new and improved WRX against the new and improved STI, as well as against the outgoing WRX and STI. I think readers would really like to see if these chassis upgrades have delivered as promised.
Also of note (but lost amongst all the chassis hype) is the fact that Bluetooth is now standard across the WRX/STI lineup.
eclogite says:
05:58 AM, 04/ 2/10
Thanks. Just another reason for me to really, really want a Subie.
Great looking cars. Can't wait to see 'em in person some time.
felonious says:
08:24 AM, 04/ 2/10
I wonder if Subaru is taking some notes from GM? Notably, last year's hot rod (Z06) is this year's base model...
dougnash2009 says:
09:53 AM, 04/ 2/10
It doesn't take a genius to realize that Subaru makes & sells far more standard WRX models, than STi. So, it only makes sense that they'd do what they can to up the value of those models. Plus, it isn't very cost-efficient to make two different sets of fenders for essentially the same car.
All that being said, it is an absolute shame that once again, the STi has lost a great deal of its unique look. The fact that only the STI had the wide track and flared fenders for the past couple years, was really cool. Other than the big wing, there's not much to visually separate the two models.
mike_honcho says:
11:06 AM, 04/ 6/10
I guess they're feeling the pressure from the competition. It definitely is sad to see the STI loose some of it's mystique (even thought I did choose the Evo myself.)
The WRX seems to be lagging behind the stiff competition in comparisons from the likes of the GTI and MS3. Subaru is definitely stepping up their game, but they really need to address the STI as they're loosing that struggle at the expense of another.