Subaru Canada Unleashes 2016 WRX STI

Subaru Canada Inc.

Subaru Canada Inc.

• Newly available rear radar system introduces Subaru brand's next step towards full-perimeter preventative safety offering three functions: Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
• 2016 WRX STI offers greater refinement with new audio and navigation systems.

MISSISSAUGA, ON, May 4, 2015 /CNW/ - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) is pleased to announce that its global flagship performance model, the WRX STI, is now available for sale for the 2016 model year. The 2016 WRX STI continues as the ultimate-performance Subaru with its high-pressure 305 horsepower turbocharged/intercooled SUBARU BOXER engine teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission and the exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru's symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system. The spine-tingling sedan's proven performance technologies also include Active Torque Vectoring, multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and a Brembo performance brake system with super sport ABS. For the 2016 model year, the Subaru WRX STI continues as a finely tuned legendary road car: Built on a stiff chassis for handling agility and precision, firm springs and quick steering (13.0:1 ratio) offer an unsurpassed level of control.

Purebred Performance Engineering

The 2016 WRX STI is powered by a 2.5-litre turbocharged/intercooled 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine that employs the Dual Active Valve Control System (Dual AVCS). The engine, which is exclusive to the STI model, produces 305 horsepower (SAE) at 6,000 rpm and 290 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm.

The WRX STI engine is uniquely teamed with a specially reinforced 6-speed manual transmission. The Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-DRIVE) powertrain management system allows the driver to tailor the car's driving characteristics by choosing from three selectable modes - Intelligent, Sport and Sport Sharp - using a rotary dial on the centre console. SI-DRIVE alters vehicle performance characteristics by regulating the engine control module and by fine-tuning the electronic throttle control system.

Multi-mode DCCD All-Wheel Drive with Three-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control

The 2016 WRX STI is exclusively equipped with the multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive. This renowned system uses planetary-type centre differential gears with a nominal 41:59 torque split. Subaru's Driver Controlled Centre Differential is a proprietary design that is completely unique to the industry. This technology allows the driver to adjust the centre differential locking through three different modes and customize the torque sent to the front and rear wheels to suit the mood or the conditions.

Sensor inputs that include steering angle, throttle position, RPM, lateral-g, yaw, brake, ABS and wheel speed govern torque transfer response. A helical-type limited-slip front differential and a TORSEN torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential optimize side-to-side torque distribution.

The DCCD AWD system features three automatic modes, each using varying degrees of centre differential locking to match different driving situations. In manual mode, the driver can select one of six centre differential locking levels to suit different driving situations.

Active Torque Vectoring, an enhancement of the multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, can apply brake pressure to the inside front wheel to facilitate more neutral cornering. The VDC system offers even more driver choices with three settings: VDC Normal, Traction and Off. Each provides respectively lesser degrees of system engagement, allowing the driver to tailor the response for the driving situation. Active Torque Vectoring remains engaged for Normal and Traction modes.

Three Trim Levels, Greater Refinement

The 2016 Subaru WRX STI is offered in three trim levels: the entry level WRX STI, WRX STI Sport Package and the WRX STI Sport-tech Package. The 2016 WRX STI gains an AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio) USB port/iPod control and updated steering wheel-integrated controls. The 2016 WRX STI also gains a one-touch turn signal for added convenience.

The 2016 WRX STI Sport Package introduces the Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD). This new rear radar system introduces the brand's next step toward full-perimeter preventive safety. The rear radar system offers three functions: Blind Spot Detection detects vehicles behind the C-pillars and in other blind spots; Lane Change Assist detects fast-approaching vehicles when changing lanes, and Rear Cross Traffic Alert detects close vehicles while reversing, such as out of a parking space or driveway. LED indicators on the side mirrors paired with an audible warning alert the driver of vehicles travelling in their blind spots and when changing lanes.

The WRX STI Sport-tech Package integrates a new AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 7-inch high-resolution capacitive touchscreen display with GPS navigation system, STARLINK smartphone integration (including Aha radio), dual USB port/iPod control, auxiliary audio input and SMS text messaging capability and SiriusXM Satellite Radio (free 3-month trial subscription included).

All-around Safety

Following Subaru's safety philosophy of all-around safety, the 2016 WRX STI covers all areas of safety performance. The combination of Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive, a light body, chassis rigidity and performance, oversized brakes with high-performance ABS, a highly advanced multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system and active torque vectoring all work together to give the WRX STI the best hazard avoidance in its class – ensuring the driving is exciting, but safe in every scenario. In terms of passive safety, the WRX STI features exceptionally rigid construction and incorporates the latest thinking in passive safety protection. Like all Subaru models, the 2016 WRX STI uses the brand's proven ring-shaped reinforcement frame, which has been shown to excel in the small overlap test by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Subaru WRX STI also features a full complement of supplemental restraints, including dual-stage deployment front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, a driver's knee airbag, and side-curtain airbags for front and rear outboard occupants.

Model Overview

Trim: WRX STI
Price: $37,995
Engine: 2.5L high-pressure turbocharged and intercooled, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder high-performance SUBARU BOXER engine with Dual Active Valve Control and SI-DRIVE
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission with Hill Holder system
Horsepower: 305
Torque: 290 lb-ft
Features: Subaru symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive;  Helical limited-slip front differential; TORSEN limited-slip rear differential; Multi-mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential; Torque Vectoring System; Multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control system and Traction Control System; Brembo high-performance brake system, STI branded; Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; 326 x 30 mm four-piston caliper ventilated front disc brakes; 316 x 20 mm dual-piston caliper ventilated rear disc brakes; driver and front passenger front and side-impact airbags; side curtain airbags; driver's side knee airbag; performance design front seats with separate height- and tilt-adjustable head restraints; engine immobilizer system and anti-theft security system; 18-inch cast aluminum alloy wheels; AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 6.2-inch high-resolution touchscreen display, STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha Radio, USB port, iPod control, auxiliary audio input and steering wheel-integrated controls; Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice activation and steering wheel-mounted controls; SiriusXM Satellite Radio installed (free 3-month trial subscription included); Bluetooth and cruise control switches;  one-touch turn signals.

Trim: WRX STI Sport Package
Price: $40,795
Engine: 2.5L high-pressure turbocharged and intercooled, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder high-performance SUBARU BOXER engine with Dual Active Valve Control and SI-DRIVE
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission with Hill Holder system
Horsepower: 305
Torque: 290 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX STI): large rear spoiler; LED low-beam automatic off/on headlights; multi-reflector halogen fog lights;  power tilting and sliding glass sunroof; 8-way power driver's seat, Subaru Rear/Side Vehicle Detection System (SRVD).

Trim: WRX STI Sport-tech Package
Price: $45,395
Engine: 2.5L high-pressure turbocharged and intercooled, horizontally opposed, 4-cylinder high-performance SUBARU BOXER engine with Dual Active Valve Control and SI-DRIVE
Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission with Hill Holder system
Horsepower: 305
Torque: 290 lb-ft
Features (in addition to WRX STI Sport Package): 18-inch BBS-forged aluminum alloy wheels; proximity key with push-button start; AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA audio system with 7-inch high-resolution capacitive touchscreen display with GPS navigation system; STARLINK smartphone integration including Aha radio; dual USB port/iPod control; auxiliary audio input and SMS text messaging capability; SiriusXM Satellite Radio (free 3-month trial subscription included); SiriusXM Traffic (subscription required); Harman Kardon 440-watt amplifier; Harman Kardon premium speaker system (9 speakers including subwoofer); leather seating surfaces.

About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of 90 authorized dealers across Canada. For more information, please visit www.subaru.ca or www.pr.subaru.ca or follow @Subaru_Canada on Twitter.

SOURCE Subaru Canada Inc.

Image with caption: "The 2016 WRX STI continues as the ultimate-performance Subaru with its high-pressure 305 horsepower turbocharged/intercooled SUBARU BOXER engine teamed with a 6-speed manual transmission and the exclusive Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) version of Subaru's symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Drive system. (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150504_C5017_PHOTO_EN_16150.jpg

Image with caption: "The 2016 WRX STI offers greater refinement with new audio and navigation systems. (CNW Group/Subaru Canada Inc.)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20150504_C5017_PHOTO_EN_16151.jpg

Joe Felstein, [phone], [email protected]; Julie Lychak, [phone], [email protected]; Daniel Ponzini, [phone], [email protected]; Amyot Bachand, Media Relations, Quebec Region, [phone], [email protected]