Next Subaru WRX STI launches with limited Launch Edition (pictures)

The 2015 Subaru WRX STI launches at the 2014 Detroit auto show with 305 horsepower and more differentials than you can shake a stick at.

Antuan Goodwin

Jan. 14, 2014 12:07 p.m. PT

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2015 Subaru WRX STI

DETROIT -- Hot on the heels of the launch of the new 2015 WRX at the LA Auto Show, Subaru has pulled the wraps off of the 2015 Subaru WRX STI.

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Hood scoop

Like the WRX, the WRX STI features flared fenders, a wide body, aggressive styling, and a functional hood scoop.

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2.5-liter Boxer Turbo

That hood scoop feeds air through an intercooler atop its 2.5-liter turbocharged, four-cylinder Boxer engine. Output is given at 305 horsepower at 6,000rpm and 290 pound-feet of torque at 4,000rpm.

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STI wing

The STI's wing is huge, but functional. It's also the most obvious indicator that this is no mere Impreza.

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Exclusively sedan

We didn't expect to see a hatchback or wagon variant at the show, but the lack of a five-door is still disappointing.

Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential

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Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential

The STI uses Subaru's Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. Using a planetary-type center differential -- which is somehow augmented by a mechanical limited-slip type center -- the STI defaults to a rear-biased 41:59 torque split.

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Splitting the torque

After being split fore-to-aft by the center differentials, the torque is again split port-to-starboard by a helical-type limited-slip front differential and a Torsen torque-sensing limited-slip rear differential. I'm counting at least three types of differentials in this MMDCCD system.

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Active Torque Vectoring

Active Torque Vectoring for the STI can apply brake pressure to the inside front wheel to facilitate more neutral cornering and is tied to the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system.

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Steering wheel

In the cabin, you'll find black and red trim centered around a new flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel. Just beyond the wheel, the driver monitors the vehicle's systems with a new 3.5-inch LCD screen in the center of the instrument cluster.

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Touch-screen navigation system

An available touch-screen navigation system features a 6.1-inch LCD screen with voice controls that feeds audio to an optional Harman Kardon audio system.

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Six-speed manual

The WRX STI uses a reinforced six-speed manual transmission. Incline Start Assist can momentarily prevent the car from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

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SI-Drive

The Subaru Intelligent Drive (SI-Drive) system allows the driver to choose between three selectable modes -- Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp -- to alter the vehicle's performance.

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LED low beams

The new headlamps use standard LED low beams. The taillights and center high-mount stop lamp (CHMSL) are also LED-based.

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2015 WRX STI Launch Edition

Subaru also announced a 2015 WRX STI Launch Edition. This limited-edition model includes an STI short-throw shifter, Keyless Access & Start, and special cabin trim with blue highlights.