New look Subaru WRX & WRX STI launched, from RM238k [+Video]



Two of the most anticipated cars in 2014 are here. Motor Image, the exclusive distributor of Subaru vehicles in Malaysia, has finally unveiled the all-new Subaru WRX and WRX STI in Malaysia. The standard variant comes in the guise of Subaru WRX 2.0 CVT while the performance sibling as the Subaru WRX STI 2.5 6MT.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

QUICK FACTS

Name Subaru WRX 2.0 CVT Subaru WRX STI 2.5 6MT
Segment C-Segment Sedan C-Segment Sedan
Engine 1,998cc 4-cylinder Boxer, turbocharged DIT (268hp, 350Nm) 2,457cc 4-cylinder Boxer, high-boost turbocharged (300hp, 407Nm)
Transmission  Sport Lineartronic CVT 6-Speed Manual
Price  RM 237,190.80
RM 278,720.50

 

WRX, which stands for World Rally eXperimental used to be turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza. While WRX STI or Subaru Tecnica International is the hooligan version of the Subaru Impreza WRX. This time around, Subaru decided to develop an all-new sedan, the Subaru WRX, which comes with Subaru WRX STI of course.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

The standard variant has gone for a new but smaller 2.0-liter turbocharged Boxer engine, whereas the WRX STI sticks with its 2.5-liter turbocharged engine. There’s a bad news for some Scooby fans though, no hatchbacks this time.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

EXTERIOR
Subaru nailed it with the WRX Concept which was sharp and masculine, with strong WRX DNA. The end product didn’t fall far from it. Thankfully.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

Both WRX and WRX STI are exactly the same in terms of dimension. The performance variant is however lighter by 13kg at 1,516kg of kerb weight. They are equipped with LED headlamps, front and rear fog lamps, rear diffuser, shark-fin antenna and twin dual tail pipes.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

The WRX STI gets the large rear spoiler obviously, whereas the WRX has a ducktail spoiler. 18-inch rims for the performance sedan while the standard variant 17-inch.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

INTERIOR
Interior design is unmistakably Subaru with both cabins looking exactly the same if not for the gear sticks and upholstery. The WRX comes with fabric upholstery with red stitching while the WRX STI gets leather and Alcantara with red stitching.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

Both variants are equipped with leather wrapped steering wheel, gear knob and hand brake lever, keyless entry, push start button, 2-DIN audio system, Rear Vision Camera System, Multi Function Display including Boost Pressure Meter, cruise control and aluminium pedals. 

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

The WRX STI is fitted with driver-set rev indicator, a D-shaped quick ratio (12.7:1) power steering wheel and stainless side sill plates. The WRX gets a D-shaped quick ratio (14.3:1) power steering and paddle shifters.

PERFORMANCE
The Subaru WRX is powered by a new 2.0-liter turbocharged Boxer engine and for the first time coupled with a sport lineartronic CVT transmission. It produces 268 horsepower and 350Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0 to 100km/h at 6.3 seconds with the top speed of 240 km/h. Fuel consumption is reported to be 8.6 liter per 100km for mixed city and highway driving.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Tha Subaru WRX STI gets a little more than that, a 2.5-liter high-boost turbocharged with large capacity intercooler Boxer engine, mated with a 6-speed manual gearbox. It generates 300 horsepower, 407Nm of torque, 0 to 100km/h in 5.2 seconds with a top speed of 255km/h. The WRX STI is fitted with high performance Brembo brakes for that extra braking power. Both city and highway driving in the STI uses 10.4 liter per 100km.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

In terms of drivetrain, the WRX gets Variable Torque Distribution all-wheel drive system. The WRX STI has a Driver’s Control Centre Differential (DCCD) type all-wheel drive system, which can be set on the multi-mode DCCD .

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Both WRX’s are equipped with Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) that allows driver to select driving modes; Intelligent Mode [I] for smooth and efficient drive, Sport Mode [S] for a fun and sporty drive, Sport Sharp Mode [S#] allows sharper throttle response and precise rev control.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

Safety is as important for both WRX and WRX STI, so the duo get the same and complete safety package. Seven SRS airbags including driver’s knee airbag, reinforcement beams, whiplash reducing front seats, Brake Assist and Brake Override.

WHAT ELSE?
Motor Image invited British precision stunt driver Russ Swift, who invented the Parallel Park manoeuvre. He has had a few Guinness World Record under his belt such as parallel parking in tightest space, J-turn in tightest space and fastest time in doing 10 donuts. A mind boggling 10 donuts in 16.07 seconds. That’s 1.6 seconds per complete spin!

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

 

Russ did some amazing tricks in the new Subaru WRX STI at Desa Park City, including a side wheelie in a Subaru XV! He started off with one passenger (me!) in the car, which he eventually took in more passengers. Me managed to perform the side wheelie with 4 other passengers in the car! A great guy with incredible talent. He’s 63 this year by the way.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

As of the day of launch, Malaysian market is more interested in the performance sedan as there are more orders placed for the Scooby WRX STI than the WRX. The Subaru WRX 2.0 CVT is priced at RM 237,190.80, the Subaru WRX STI is priced at about RM41,000 more at RM 278,720.50.

There are seven colours to choose from; Crystal White Pearl, Ice Silver Metallic, Galaxy Blue Silica, WR Blue Pearl, Lighting Red, Dark Grey Metallic and Crystal Black Silica.

2014 Subaru WRX & WRX STI launch in Malaysia - AutoBuzz.my

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IMAGE GALLERY