2008 Subaru WRX STI

Unlike some all-wheel-drive cars, which either slide the fronts excessively under power or slide the rears when you lift off the gas, the WRX STI behaved impeccably in very assertive driving. New rear suspension, which was changed from struts to unequal length control arms, helps keep the rear tires planted. Steering feel was a bit vague during sedate driving but offered good feedback as cornering speeds increased.


During race-track-style shifting, the car experienced a double driveline shudder, as if one axle received power before the other. Slowing clutch release down slightly quelled the issue. Even then, the clutch started to fade during our test drive, though we never did a drag strip-style standing-start launch (perhaps those who drove it earlier did). Fortunately, Subaru offers a three-year, 36,000-mile “wear item limited warranty” that includes clutch linings and brake pads.

Turbocharged Power

The WRX STI is powered by a turbocharged, 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder. (With a “boxer” or “flat” engine, the cylinders are aligned like two rows of cans laid on their sides. The main advantage is a lower center of gravity. Porsche, Ferrari and others have successfully employed this design.) Its double overhead cam design features variable valve timing for maximum performance when you want it and maximum fuel economy for the daily commute. The engine comes only with a six-speed manual transmission.


Maximum performance driving requires a lot of shifting to keep the engine in its powerband. Tight country roads had us considering downshifting to first: While we didn’t try it, the new triple-cone synchronizer probably would have made it easy. Those who underestimate the tightness of an approaching corner will appreciate the giant Brembo disc brakes on all four corners that will quickly turn that excessive kinetic energy into heat.


If it’s choice you want, the WRX STI has it. Its Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) has three choices of automatic modes, plus six manual settings. Its stability control has three settings: normal, traction and off. (Save the “off” mode for track-day or performance rally events.) Then there’s the Subaru Intelligent Drive that offers “intelligent”, “sport” and “sport sharp” modes.