2019 Subaru WRX STI

Overview

The 2019 Subaru WRX STI has been a mainstay in the sport-compact scene for years. Available only in a three-box-sedan body style—which it shares with the lesser but nearly as capable and less expensive Subaru WRX—the STI is a familiar and properly rapid road rocket with standard all-wheel drive, a six-speed manual transmission, and a 310-hp turbocharged flat-four engine. Within its competitive set, however, this Subie lacks the Honda Civic Type R's flypaper-like grip, the heady thrust of the Ford Focus RS, and the near-luxury refinement of the Volkswagen Golf R. For all its heightened responsiveness and rally-bred chutzpah, the STI can feel stiff on the road, its engine is susceptible to lethargic turbo lag, and its hefty asking price does not include as many modern conveniences as you might expect.

What's New for 2019?

The 2019 WRX STI gets slightly more powerful for 2019 thanks in part to a new air intake and performance exhaust system, which bumps engine output from 305 horsepower to 310. Likewise, the four-cylinder mill receives a retuned engine control unit (ECU) and stronger pistons. The manual transmission also has a shorter third gear that Subaru says improves acceleration. A new Series.Gray model joins the lineup, too, but only 250 will be produced. These limited editions sport a unique Cool Gray Khaki paint color as well as exclusive badging, folding exterior mirrors, black 19-inch wheels, and sliver brake calipers. Inside, the Series.Gray mixes black faux-suede and leather with red stitching. Its standard equipment includes an upgraded suspension, Recaro front seats, and keyless entry with push-button start. For those seeking the ultimate STI, there is the S209; we estimate it will go from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

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Pricing and Which One to Buy

Any WRX STI purchase is sizable. We would probably curtail our spending given the Subaru's plebeian trappings. If you desire additional niceties, the pricier Limited model adds the Recaro bundle plus a power sunroof, navigation, a Harman/Kardon premium audio system, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. The Limited also gains the option to replace the STI's giant rear wing with a less outrageous one. Stick with the base WRX and you still get front and rear limited-slip differentials, a 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, dual-zone automatic climate control, and red seatbelts.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

Likes: Seriously quick on a variety of surfaces, best enjoyed when driven aggressively.
Dislikes: Clunky clutch and shifter, chassis wants more power, a bit rough-edged when cruising.

The WRX STI's turbocharged 2.5-liter flat-four is eager to rev and pumps out a characteristic flat-four burble from the car's quad exhaust pipes. But this old engine is not as smooth or as hard-hitting as the smaller turbo fours powering the Subie's closest peers. Along with some initial lag from the big turbo spooling up, the engine's lack of low-end grunt manifests in a short, punchy power delivery that can be cumbersome around town. Working its standard six-speed manual gearbox is a must to keep the car pulling strongly, including abusive, high-rpm clutch drops to achieve maximum acceleration from a standstill. Driven with full fury, however, the STI's controls sync together effectively.

With its buttoned-down chassis and all-wheel-drive traction, the STI is more athletic and enjoyable on twisty back roads than the workaday WRX. The firm suspension keeps excessive body motion in check at the expense of some ride comfort on rougher pavement, but this hottest Subaru is still livable as a daily driver for enthusiasts. Its electrically assisted steering is quick, direct, and blessed with moderate feel, while the adjustable center differential allows the driver to further fine-tune the chassis by varying the drivetrain's front-to-rear torque split. The STI's pedals are nicely spaced for race-driver-like heel-and-toe downshifts, with the firm brake pedal returning good initial bite and easy modulation.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

The WRX STI's engine is larger and of an older design than most of today's hot four-cylinders, which, in combination with the Subaru's short gearing, means it is the least frugal in its class. In terms of fuel-economy ratings, the EPA estimates that some four-wheel-drive mid-size pickups will actually take you farther on a gallon of gas than the STI. During our 200-mile highway fuel-economy test, it beat its 22-mpg rating by 3—but that still trailed rivals by several mpg.

Interior, Infotainment, and Cargo

Likes: Pleasantly functional cabin, clear outward visibility, conveniently large trunk opening.
Dislikes: Sunroof significantly reduces front-seat headroom, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, smallish door pockets.

As with most sport-compact cars, the WRX STI's humble origins are most visible inside its cabin, which is pretty basic in quality, layout, and feature count. Despite the red seatbelts and red accents on the optional Recaro seats, the ambience is rather dark, and the updated materials and additional sound insulation do little to elevate the STI's trappings proportionately with its price.

Along with a 5.9-inch color information screen atop the dash, the STI comes standard with a mid-level version of Subaru's touchscreen infotainment system—called Starlink. While not the most advanced or highest-resolution setup on the market, it operates intuitively and has a range of modern features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, however, are not among them.

The STI is fairly capacious considering its three-box sedan body, thanks to a roomy trunk and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat. However, all of the Subaru's competitors are hatchbacks that offer greater versatility for swallowing cargo. It has adequate storage for small items on its center console, with the main spots being its console bin and smallish door pockets.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The WRX STI has not been crash-tested by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), but it earned solid results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Driver-assistance equipment is not found on most rally cars, so Subaru leaves it up to the driver to control the STI. Still, key safety features include:

• Available blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

Subaru's warranty coverage is pretty standard for this class of compact hatchbacks, but Volkswagen is the clear winner thanks to its impressive warranty program.

• Limited warranty covers 3 years or 36,000 miles
• Powertrain warranty covers 5 years or 60,000 miles
• No complimentary scheduled maintenance