Subaru launches all-new WRX and WRX STI; expands Impreza, Forester lines

MANILA, Philippines - Motor Image Pilipinas, the exclusive distributor of Subaru in the Philippines has officially unveiled not one, not two, not three, but four much-awaited models at the 2014 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS). These four models expand the premium Japanese brand’s reach in the Philippine market and will bring them to record-breaking sales in 2014. Now available at all Subaru dealerships nationwide is the Impreza 2.0i CVT and Forester 2.0i-Premium while arriving a month later is the all-new WRX and WRX STI.

Though these models vary in terms of design and purpose, they all carry Subaru’s core technologies as standard: innate sporty dynamics thanks to the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the smooth and powerful horizontally-opposed Boxer engine, and the highest levels of occupant safety in their respective classes.

Subaru WRX

Dubbed “the best handling, best performing WRX ever”, the all-new 2014 Subaru WRX signals the return of the storied nameplate since it bowed out in favor of the STI in 2011. The all-new WRX is powered by a massaged version of the FA20DIT engine—the same out that powers the Forester XT but uprated to 268 horsepower and 350 Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a Sport Lineartronic CVT tuned for continuous power delivery with improved fuel efficiency. Aside from more power, the all-new WRX’s engine lowers the car’s center of gravity and together with the new brake vectoring system and 235/45R17 tires results in better handling.

Priced at P1,888,000, the all-new WRX is packed with technology and convenience features. Outside, it features a sporty lip-type rear spoiler, quad-tip tailpipes, and gunmetal rims. The headlights feature the signature “hawkeye” LED parklights, daytime running lights, and HID for the low beams. Inside, the WRX comes with a push-button engine start/stop; a thick-rimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel with audio controls; leather sport seats with aggressive side bolsters and power adjustment for the driver; carbon fiber inserts; an enhanced multi-function display; a full-featured audio system with USB and 6 speakers; Bluetooth hands-free; and cruise control.

Subaru WRX STI

While it shares the same EJ257 engine and 6-speed manual as its predecessor, the all-new 2014 Subaru WRX STI gets some love with a completely new suspension system which is re-tuned for even better response and tighter body control. The WRX STI features a quicker steering ratio (with a conventional hydraulic set-up) as well as a new active torque vectoring system. The handling package is completed with the Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control, the Driver’s Control Center Differential or DCCD, and standard Brembo brakes. Like the outgoing WRX STI, the all-new model pumps out a healthy 305 horsepower and 393 Nm of torque, capable of rocketing it to 100 km/h in less than five seconds.

Though the WRX STI looks very similar to its WRX sibling, it does get some unique exterior treatment in the form of a new front grille and larger 245/40R18 tires. Currently, Motor Image Pilipinas is offering the WRX STI without the iconic rear wing, although they are offering it as an accessory (though we honestly hope they’ll re-consider and make it standard). Inside, the WRX STI also gets a push-button engine start/stop; Alcantara/leather sport seats with red detailing; carbon fiber accents; a unique instrument panel with enhanced multi-function display; moon roof; and a Harman/Kardon sound system. Despite the added features, the price for the all-new WRX STI is kept the same with the outgoing model at P2,498,000—a great move considering the pricing of the WRX STI is already precariously close to other luxury sports sedans in the market.

Subaru Impreza 2.0i CVT

The compact car war is certainly heating up as Subaru launches the most affordable Impreza yet: the 2.0i. Priced at just P1,128,000, the Impreza 2.0i comes equipped with Subaru’s efficient and responsive Lineartronic CVT as standard. This model officially replaces the even more expensive 2.0i M/T that used to cost P 30,000 more to be Subaru’s most affordable vehicle. And yet, despite the price tag, the Impreza 2.0i has much more technology for the price.

Shunning the manual transmission for Subaru’s chain-type Lineartronic CVT, the Impreza 2.0i offers better responsiveness and comfort even during heavy traffic. And when the roads do open up, the all-around independent suspension with front MacPherson Struts and rear Double Wishbones equate to a more exhilarating and responsive ride.

The introduction of the 2.0i means that the Impreza now comes in two flavors: the P1,128,000 2.0i and the P1,298,000 2.0i-S which gets even more luxury and convenience features such as 17-inch alloys, sunroof, leather seats, a full-featured multi-function display, and a dual-zone climate control among others.

Subaru 2.0i-Premium

Always been wanting a Subaru Forester, but find the 2.0i-L a bit bare and the 2.0 XT a bit expensive? Well, you’re in luck. The 2.0i-Premium joins the Forester line-up. It’s essentially got most of the 2.0 XT’s goodies at a much more affordable price point: P1,598,000.

Commanding an additional P200,000 over the base 2.0i-L, the Forester 2.0i-Premium adds a lot for the extra cash. This won’t be as apparent outside as the only way to spot the new variant over its lesser sibling is through the two-tone 18-inch alloys shared with the 2.0 XT. Inside is where the biggest change happens. The 2.0i-Premium adds everything but the kitchen sink (and the Harman/Kardon sound system). In short, for the additional cash, the 2.0i-Premium gets leather seats, a push-button start/stop, and a sunroof. And that’s not all; it also adds an 8-way power adjustable driver’s seat and even a powered tailgate. In fact, the only differentiating favor of the 2.0 XT is just the engine, the premium sound system, a fancier multi-information display, and the back-up camera.

With the introduction of the 2.0 i-Premium, it brings the Philippine Forester line-up to three: 2.0 i-L (P1,398,000), 2.0 i-Premium (P1,598,000), and 2.0 XT (P1,868,000).

Both the Impreza 2.0i and Forester 2.0i-Premium are powered by the new-generation FB20 boxer engine, designed for both excellent real-world performance outstanding fuel economy. The FB20 generates 150 horsepower and 196 Nm of torque. It uses a lifetime timing chain for lower maintenance cost and excellent durability.