2010 Subaru Impreza WRX STI: A Sports Enthusiast's Car

What's New:

With the exception of the optional Bluetooth hands-free capabilities and the new gray upholstery, which replaces the black upholstery, the aggressively designed Subaru Impreza WRX STI hatchback street fighter, which first hit the streets in 2008, is basically a carryover for 2010.

Must Have Goodies:

While the WRX STI is outfitted with a sporty looking appearance package, the vehicle can still be enhanced with a number of features. For instance, the sports machine we reviewed was outfitted with Subaru’s optional 18 x 8.5-in BBS forged aluminum-alloy wheels (a gold wheel package is available, too). The BBS Package also included fog lamps and Dunlop performance tires. Furthermore, the vehicle can be enhanced with an optional navigation system and satellite radio, too.

What Rocked:

We loved the aggressive design of the WRX STI, with the bulging front fenders and rear quarter panels, the hood scoop, the rear mounted spoiler, the aerodynamic ground effects and the twin chrome dual tailpipes. This is one of the coolest looking hatchbacks out in the market today. The sporty looking appearance package coupled with over 300 horses oozing power from under the hood made driving the gutsy 6-speed, with the manual transmission, fun-to-drive, with its short, smooth shifts.

Moreover, unlike a number of sports cars we reviewed, the double-wishbone suspension meant the ride wasn’t jarring, but quite tolerable. And, as an added bonus, the roomy backseats meant two large adults could actually ride along without sacrificing leg or headroom.

Furthermore, the race car-like interior included brush aluminum-like insets, bright orange electroluminescent gauges, with a speedometer topping out at 160-mph, and the STI lettering stitched into the performance-design front seats, which compliment the racy exterior. Yes, Subaru designers also incorporated a place to house two twenty-four ounce soft drinks, too.

Added to that, since this vehicle is only available with a manual transmission, Subaru’s Incline Start Assist system, which is a welcome feature, helps to prevent the WRX STI from rolling backward, when being driven away – after stopping on a hill. We’re sure the drivers following us were glad we had this feature.

Finally, Subaru’s Intelligent Drive, also known as SI-DRIVE, allows the driver to find the perfect driving mode with the ability to select three driving characteristics: Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp. In addition to the SI-DRIVE, Subaru’s all-wheel drive system offers three selectable automatic performance modes in addition to six manual differential-locking settings, which helped improved driving conditions, reducing slippage and improving grip during the aftermath of Georgia’s annual ice storm.

What We Disliked:

We were somewhat disappointed that a power sunroof and heated seats weren’t available for this performance-based vehicle. Also the front center armrest needs to be redesigned so that height challenged drivers would have access to it, too.

Any Juice:

The performance-oriented Subaru is powered by a 2.5-liter intercooled turbocharged Boxer engine, which is capable of producing 305-horses. Yes, it takes names and kicks butt.

The Verdict:

While Subaru has been considered a niche brand, it does have a loyal following. Last year Subaru was one of three brands to increase year-over-year sales in the U. S. in a recession. On the surface the all-wheel drive WRX STI looks like a tricked-out Impreza.

However, upon a closer examination, one immediately realizes that the $40,000 hatchback we reviewed can easily compete with the likes of Nissan’s 370Z and Ford’s Mustang GT. Without some of the extra options on our vehicle, the WRX STI can be had for a base price of $34,995. Although Subaru doesn’t expect many takers at this price, at least they offer a vehicle for sports enthusiast. Yes, this Subaru offers the gusto and power, but in a package that can easily seat adults comfortably in both the front and rear.

Competition: Mazdaspeed3 and VW GTI

To configure a WRX STI or another new-vehicle, visit our New-Vehicle Pricing Guide, which is located on the right side of this page.