Peter Banks Are you a Subaru enthusiast who has heard of the term "STI" but are unsure what it means? Or are you simply curious about the significance of STI for Subaru cars? Look no further than this comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about STI and its impact on Subaru’s lineup.
Key Takeaways
- STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International, a high-performance division of Subaru responsible for tuning and modifying Subaru vehicles for racing and performance purposes.
- STI-tuned vehicles have upgrades and modifications made to their engines, suspension, brakes, and other components to improve their performance and driving experience.
- STI vehicles are known for their exceptional handling, power, and agility, and have gained a loyal following among automotive enthusiasts.
- STI models in Subaru’s lineup include the WRX STI, the BRZ tS, and the S209, among others.
A Brief History of STI
STI was established in 1988 as a motorsports division of Subaru. It was originally formed to compete in the World Rally Championship (WRC), an international rally racing series, and quickly gained a reputation for its high-performance vehicles and skilled drivers.
In the years that followed, STI began offering performance upgrades and modifications for Subaru’s production vehicles, allowing everyday drivers to experience the thrill of driving a high-performance Subaru. STI-tuned vehicles have since become synonymous with precision handling, power, and agility, and have gained a loyal following among automotive enthusiasts.
What Sets STI Vehicles Apart?
So, what distinguishes an STI-tuned vehicle from a regular Subaru model? The answer lies in the upgrades and modifications made to the vehicle’s components.
STI vehicles typically feature a more powerful engine, with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine being the standard. The suspension is also tuned for maximum performance, with stiffer springs, upgraded shock absorbers, and anti-roll bars that help to keep the car planted on the road. Larger brakes are also commonly found on STI vehicles, providing better stopping power and reducing the risk of brake fade during intense driving.
In addition to these upgrades, STI-tuned vehicles often feature aerodynamic enhancements, such as a rear spoiler or front lip, that help to reduce drag and increase downforce. These enhancements, combined with the vehicle’s other upgrades, result in a car that is not only faster but also more stable and agile.
STI Models in Subaru’s Lineup
Subaru offers several STI models in its lineup, each with its own unique set of features and capabilities. Here are some of the most notable STI models:
WRX STI
The WRX STI is perhaps the most well-known STI-tuned car in Subaru’s lineup. It features a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 310 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. The WRX STI also features a six-speed manual transmission, all-wheel drive, and a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers.
BRZ tS
The BRZ tS is a special edition of Subaru’s BRZ sports car that has been tuned by STI. It features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 205 horsepower and 156 lb-ft of torque, as well as a six-speed manual transmission or a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The BRZ tS also features an STI-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes, and lightweight 18-inch wheels.
S209
The S209 is a limited-edition STI-tuned version of the Subaru WRX. It features a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 341 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque, making it the most powerful Subaru engine ever produced. The S209 also features extensive aerodynamic enhancements, including a large rear wing and front canards, as well as a sport-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes.
The Impact of STI on Subaru’s Legacy
STI has had a significant impact on Subaru’s legacy as a manufacturer of high-performance vehicles. Its success in motorsports, particularly in the WRC, has helped to establish Subaru as a brand known for precision handling and power.
STI-tuned vehicles have also helped to expand Subaru’s reach beyond its core audience of outdoor enthusiasts and into the world of performance driving. By offering a range of high-performance vehicles, Subaru has been able to attract a new generation of automotive enthusiasts who appreciate the thrill of driving a car that is not only practical but also exhilarating.
FAQs
What does STI stand for in Subaru?
STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International, a high-performance division of Subaru responsible for tuning and modifying Subaru vehicles for racing and performance purposes.
What makes an STI-tuned vehicle different from a regular Subaru model?
STI-tuned vehicles have upgrades and modifications made to their engines, suspension, brakes, and other components to improve their performance and driving experience. They are known for their exceptional handling, power, and agility.
What are some of the most notable STI models in Subaru’s lineup?
Some of the most notable STI models in Subaru’s lineup include the WRX STI, the BRZ tS, and the S209.
What is the impact of STI on Subaru’s legacy?
STI has had a significant impact on Subaru’s legacy as a manufacturer of high-performance vehicles. Its success in motorsports and its range of high-performance vehicles have helped to expand Subaru’s reach beyond its core audience of outdoor enthusiasts and into the world of performance driving.
