What is it?

[cody]

http://www.subaru.com/sub/misc/2008/autoshow/countdown/index.html

...2008 WRX/STI?

[MikeK]

<tin foil hat>Hmmm ... Subaru has press conferences scheduled for the 4th and 5th of april at the NY auto show</tin foil hat>

[Nick Koan]

Hmm, and they've been talking about debuting the new Impreza there for about 6 months now... hmmm... whatever could it be.

[MPREZIV]

Doomsday... :eek:

[bxracer69]

hatchback?

[cody]

What's new for 2008?

[sperry]

"A legend will be reborn"!?! Finally, the 360 is back!

http://www.microcarmuseum.com/tour/images/subaru360-00.jpg

[Nick Koan]

What's new for 2008?

Everything!

(actually, no one knows since it hasn't debuted yet)

[left footed whooten]

This silliness is going on at nabisco. I believe nothing.

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1230198

[Kevin M]

Aren't there one or two members over there who post in News and Rumors from Cherry Hill?

[left footed whooten]

Members and/or mods....taunting bastards....

[Nick Koan]

And they've been deleting posts left and right, and other people keep posting them, and then they get deleted.

Its quite funny, actually.

[sperry]

Anyway... about the car:

I think the overall shape of the car is pretty good. I dislike the details... dumb grill, dumb tail lights, dumb fog lights, back to small brakes...

But the interior is very tidy... I like that a lot. And overall, I think there's a tremendous opportunity for a very sick STi out of that thing... imagine the hatch with some wicked big fender flares, splitters, etc.

Still, the car seems to have lost its way when you compare it to the glory of the 22b era cars... then again when you compare it to modern WRC cars, it's much more like the Citroens and Fords...

[left footed whooten]

Anyway... about the car:

I think the overall shape of the car is pretty good. I dislike the details... dumb grill, dumb tail lights, dumb fog lights, back to small brakes...

But the interior is very tidy... I like that a lot. And overall, I think there's a tremendous opportunity for a very sick STi out of that thing... imagine the hatch with some wicked big fender flares, splitters, etc.

Still, the car seems to have lost its way when you compare it to the glory of the 22b era cars... then again when you compare it to modern WRC cars, it's much more like the Citroens and Fords...

Those are all the things that make me think that these chops are rough-hewn at best. Why in the beard of Zeus would they revert back from good brakes? These have to be from the Regular Impreza model, as is the grille IMO. Overall shape I also like, but again I think we are seeing another rendering when it comes to any details.

[sperry]

Those are all the things that make me think that these chops are rough-hewn at best. Why in the beard of Zeus would they revert back from good brakes? These have to be from the Regular Impreza model, as is the grille IMO. Overall shape I also like, but again I think we are seeing another rendering when it comes to any details.
You realize that those pictures are supposed to be of the actual car from Motor Trend's forth coming article, no? I'm willing to bet we're past doctored pictures.

[Nick Koan]

Yeah, we're a little over a week away from the unveiling. I wouldn't be surprised if Motor Trend and other magazines already got real deal press photos from Subaru along with an embargo on releasing them. If the article was really leaked, then it is very likely these are real.

[wrxkidid]

grill looks like it should be on a chrystler...

[rubberbiscuitt]

oh snap, we americans need our chrome, yo.

i'm sure this thing can grow on me. as for now i still need my sedan.

[JonnydaJibba]

Geez Louise, it's like they are trying to make them uglier and uglier.

[left footed whooten]

You realize that those pictures are supposed to be of the actual car from Motor Trend's forth coming article, no? I'm willing to bet we're past doctored pictures.

I still think that the cake of these photos is on, but the frosting is off or embellished. Look at the passenger fog light, its crooked. The grille looks just a little wrong in angle, like it doesn't quite match the angle of the car. MT has posted wrong "official" photos before....If this is what it is, and that's just how it is, then I am even more glad I got my 06 when I did. This is bunk, but I'm sure the STI will still be awesome.

[MikeK]

As someone posted on nabisco: "if this is real, the value of my car just went up $5k!"

[NevadaSTi]

What is it?...2008 WRX/STI?

UGLY

I am glad I have an '05

[k-dogg39]

This is bunk, but I'm sure the STI will still be awesome.

Don't know if this is real or not, but saw this earlier...

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c392/k-dogg39/08wrx.jpg

[Nick Koan]

That's an old render, and while it actually seems to carry a lot of the same element in the latest photos, a lot of the specific details are off. And the difference (visually at least) between the Impreza and the STi is in the details. I don't know how much we can take from that render.

From what I've been reading (and this might have changed) is that the STi isn't going to debut in NY next week. Its going to be saved for a concurrent announcement at a European or Japanese auto show in the late summer.

[Kevin M]

It is less ugly to me at first glance than the bugeyes were in 2001.

[cody]

Decent FAQ

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1230616

[cody]

Official Subaru NYIAS Impreza & Tribeca Photos

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1235682

[Nick Koan]

Damn, the Tribeca is actually looking pretty good now.

No more quirky design.

[JonnydaJibba]

It looks better, but more like every other SUV.

And they have finally done it. They officially killed the Impreza. =(

[Kevin M]

Except for totally hating the grill and taillights, I'd rock the hatch. I'd hit it.

[JonnydaJibba]

I guess it's not so bad. The WRX sedan is kinda cool.

[Forgotten]

I guess it's not so bad. The WRX sedan is kinda cool.

The only person that should be saying this is Bob becuase it definitely looks like a corolla with a hoodscoop.

[eggeegg]

The only person that should be saying this is Bob becuase it definitely looks like a corolla with a hoodscoop.

pretty much.

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/140778269-M.jpg
http://www.toyota.com/images/vehicles/2007/corolla/gallery/exterior/large/photo_2.jpg

[JonnydaJibba]

Yeah it really does. Fuckin Toyota.

[sperry]

Well... my next car is going to be an Audi. The new Impreza, while a likely winner for Subaru's overall sales, has strayed too far from it's rally heritage for me to want one. I'm sure the rally car will look sweet, and the STi too will be better looking, but I was hoping for some middle ground with the WRX. Sure, it's always been a hood-scooped econo-car, but now it looks like one. :(

If only they'd bring back the SVX before I save up enough to afford the new S5.

[Kevin M]

Dude, if an S5 is your ideal next DD... what could Subaru possibly do to a WRX to make you want one more? :lol:

[cody]

It's not bad when you compare it to the competition.

http://www.canadiandriver.com/galleries/2008/images/mitsubishi/2008_mitsubishi_lancer/08lancer_pw_007-75.jpg

I'm just excited to see the new STI. I'm not sure how accurate these will end up being.

[Nick Koan]

Ug, the placement of the wing on that p-shop makes me hurt deep down inside.

But, I think the hatch is pretty awesome. I can't wait to see what the STi actually ends up looking like.

[MPREZIV]

Oh GOD! That's just plain awful... :( I'ma have to go hurt Bob to make myself feel better...

[sperry]

Dude, if an S5 is your ideal next DD... what could Subaru possibly do to a WRX to make you want one more? :lol:
Um, 1/3 the price for 2/3 the car? Hell, the interior and performance are already there... but the WRX is too plain looking. That's why I'd love a new $40k SVX... it'd compete with all the 2 door MBZ/Audi offerings but cost less and not be quite as nice/fast.

[AtomicLabMonkey]

Wow, they really have made it look like a pure econobox. Why are OEMs so good at taking a great design and slowly watering it down to nothing over the years? I guess it's not a Detroit-only phenomenon.

[sperry]

Wow, they really have made it look like a pure econobox. Why are OEMs so good at taking a great design and slowly watering it down to nothing over the years? I guess it's not a Detroit-only phenomenon.
I think a lot of it is that Subaru is finally trying to go up against Toyota. The car looks more like what a lot of people expect it to look like, and I think that will greatly help their sales numbers, although it will alienate the people that buy Subaru for its rally association.

Plus if you look at the cars that other rally cars are based on, they're much tamer than the rally version:

http://www.lifecar.de/berichte/bilder/citroen-c4-01.jpg

http://www.duemotori.com/racingnews/autoimg_queue/10081.jpg

http://www.channel4.com/4car/media/100-greatest/03-large/42-ford-focus.jpg

http://www.webwombat.com.au/motoring/news_reports/images/ford-focus-rs-wrc-1.JPG


Additionally, the STi will now probably boost its sales as well, as all the fence-sitters that decide "well the WRX is enough" will all bump to the STi over looks alone. Now the WRX is more of an econo-sleeper. And even better the new WRX may look so tame, all the ricer fanbois will just go buy Lancers. Sliver-lining?

But yeah... no more cool looking, rally inspired, affordable sports sedan. :(

[khail19]

I really like hatchback cars in general, but the 08 Impreza just isn't doing it for me. Although I hated the 06 design in pictures but I really like the car in person. I'm hoping the same thing will happen with the 08 once I see a few on the road. I'd hate to have to spring for the STi just to get a decent looking car.

[chrscott_01]

:mad: I'm gonna be sick! I WAS planning on an Sti for a christmas present to myself... Santa is gonna be bringing an Evo now!:mad:

[cody]

What's the new Evo like?

[chrscott_01]

OK, I spoke way too soon, the 08 evo is a million times worse than the 08 werks! I looked up "08 evo X" and all the pics I saw were pretty consistent as far as what it's "supposed" to look like and I gotta say, I am very disappointed with Subaru and Mitsubishi. They both have taken things to a whole new level of gay. Lets hope I can move up my X-mas present soon enough to swoop a new 07 Sti while they are still around!

[tysonK]

as long as they perform, I don't care what it looks like.



JC, "Yeah dude you used to own a bugeye."

hey man I liked my bugeye!

[MikeK]

What's the new Evo like?

It looks about 11teen! times less gay than the new impreza: http://gallery.boostlabs.com/evom/evox/index.html

[eggeegg]

well, countdown is finished. over hyped IMO. And is it just me or is the website loading slow?

[cody]

It looks about 11teen! times less gay than the new impreza: http://gallery.boostlabs.com/evom/evox/index.html

It's not really fair to compare the Evo to the 2.5i or the WRX. The Evo looks ok...

I still can't wait to see the STi trim. It wouldn't take much for me to like it better than the Evo. I like wagons and a hatch is just a sporty wagon. :P

The link in the first post now shows you photoshop smoothed images...nothing we haven't seen already. They're server is slowing to a crawl though.

[A1337STI]

eh , I want to like it. but 2 thumbs down. maybe when i see one in person, like with the 07 front grill, although i liked the new grill look a bit before seeing it in person.

With out knowing about any spec changes, I liked last years Subaru WRC car better , guess they didn't though :P

[JC]

OK, I spoke way too soon, the 08 evo is a million times worse than the 08 werks! I looked up "08 evo X" and all the pics I saw were pretty consistent as far as what it's "supposed" to look like and I gotta say, I am very disappointed with Subaru and Mitsubishi. They both have taken things to a whole new level of gay. Lets hope I can move up my X-mas present soon enough to swoop a new 07 Sti while they are still around!

The 07s should still be around for a while. Why are you buying an STi or an EVO based on it's looks anyway? You are being awful dramatic considering neither car is out yet. I do know the EVO X will be more civilized than the current version. That's more what I'm worried about. Hopefully I'll get to drive one here in the next couple months and find out.

JC, "Yeah dude you used to own a bugeye."

hey man I liked my bugeye!

The Impreza died in 01. Who cares what it looks like now anyway?

[MPREZIV]

The Impreza died in 01. Who cares what it looks like now anyway?

EXACTLY!!!!!!!:D

[M3n2c3]

as long as they perform, I don't care what it looks like.



JC, "Yeah dude you used to own a bugeye."

hey man I liked my bugeye!

+1. The look isn't what makes the Impreza unique, it's the performance and driveability.

I don't dislike the look outright. . . I think both hatch and sedan actually look ok. I miss the flared fenders, though. The new fenders are too plain.

At any rate, new and different are always odd at first. I'm sure people were complaining (and some still are ;)) about the huge changes that were made from GC to GD chassis. But it grew on people.

[left footed whooten]

Someone photoshopped the uprights on either side of the grille mesh body color and the mesh black on Nasioc. I for one thought it was a dramatic improvement.

Lots of the first Motor trend photos made some of the exterior trim appear too chrome-y. The more photos I see, the more I like. When the 06 came out I felt much the same as now, saw some in person, then came around very quickly and began appreciating it. Now I have an 06 and think it looks great.

[cody]

http://www.roadandtrack.com/assets/image/2007/Q2/4192007192038.jpg

http://www.roadandtrack.com/article.asp?section_id=31&article_id=5211

The STI should be pretty sweet.

[cody]

Ok, I just read the Evo portion of the article (only had time to read the STI portion earlier). As before, the Evo sounds more advanced but the STI has the benefit of the 2.5L and DCCD (which is more of a cool factor item than a performance item). If it looks like the pic above, I'll be happy. I'd prefer a wagon, but the 5 door is close enough. But they said an Evo hatch might be in the works too...the STI vs Evo question has never been easy...that semi-automatic tranny in the Evo sounds pretty sweet. Newer technology is always kind of scary though.

[JonnydaJibba]

Wow, I actually don't not like it.

[Bob Danger]

I wonder what subaru is going to do for their WRC car. Are they still going to use the EJ20

[sperry]

I wonder what subaru is going to do for their WRC car. Are they still going to use the EJ20
Unless the WRC changes its rules to allow >2.0L, yeah probably. Plus there's an additional tax in Japan on cars with larger motors.

[WRX06TR]

Unless the WRC changes its rules to allow >2.0L, yeah probably. Plus there's an additional tax in Japan on cars with larger motors.

Yeah, in the article they mention that in Japan the STI will be a 2.0L to stay within the rules of WRC. They also mention that the 2.0L is supposed to have 300hp so the 2.5L should be putting out somewhere near 320hp.

I like the new STI. I think the new WRX looks way to docile and has lost much of its character but the new STI doesnt look to bad.

[cody]

Hmmmm.

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/images/article_images/SubaruImprezaSTInew_1_560.jpg

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/images/article_images/ScoobyDoo560px.jpg

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/secret_new_car.php?sid=741&page=1

[cody]

...and an article on the outcry on Nasioc. :lol:

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=120212

[sperry]

Hmmmm.

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/images/article_images/SubaruImprezaSTInew_1_560.jpg

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/images/article_images/ScoobyDoo560px.jpg

http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/secret_new_car.php?sid=741&page=1
Artist rendition... and hopefully, a bad one, 'cause that sucks just like the base Impreza redesign.

[cody]

Artist rendition... and hopefully, a bad one, 'cause that sucks just like the base Impreza redesign.

Yup, here's the actual new STi. ;)

http://www.edmunds.com/media/reviews/top10/05.best.under.15k/05.kia.spectra.500.jpg






















Okay, it's a Kia Spectra. :lol:

[MikeK]

...and an article on the outcry on Nasioc. :lol:

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=120212

That was a funny read (as was the outcry on nasioc)

[Kevin M]

...and an article on the outcry on Nasioc. :lol:

http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Features/articleId=120212

That's funny stuff right there.

[Nick Koan]

A conspicuously large number of posters claimed to have vomited in their mouths.

comedy gold.

[BOO]

Yup, here's the actual new STi. ;)

http://www.edmunds.com/media/reviews/top10/05.best.under.15k/05.kia.spectra.500.jpg






















Okay, it's a Kia Spectra. :lol:



thats funny :lol: cause thats exactly what my wife showed me and said .. There!!! there is your lovely STI..

OT: Kind of like the new ALTIMA, Looking like a baby 350Z

[JC]

But they said an Evo hatch might be in the works too...

I can pretty much guarantee that is a no, at least for the US in the foreseeable future.

[BOO]

Found this on a different website. This looks semi decent to me..

[cody]

thats funny :lol: cause thats exactly what my wife showed me and said .. There!!! there is your lovely STI..


Your wife sounds cool. :cool:

[sperry]

Found this on a different website. This looks semi decent to me..
Honda EG6 much?

http://webpages.csus.edu/~sac67554/EG6_4.jpg

[BOO]

Your wife sounds cool. :cool:


Thanks .. she is ;)

[BOO]

Honda EG6 much?

http://webpages.csus.edu/~sac67554/EG6_4.jpg


no where near.... you forgot the scoop :lol:

[JonnydaJibba]

Found this somewhere else.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/six7seta/fWRXSTIPSE04_V3_11__.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/six7seta/fWRXSTIPSE04_V3_77__.jpg

[cody]

Holy Shit! I love everything except how the front fender flares lead into the bumper. Amazing chop though. :eek:

[tysonK]

That's a pretty killer concept. nice.

[BOO]

Found this somewhere else.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/six7seta/fWRXSTIPSE04_V3_11__.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/six7seta/fWRXSTIPSE04_V3_77__.jpg




I saw that as well.. It would be sweet if it ever looked like that. Different color of course ;)

[cody]

Go go gadget X-Ray vision!

http://i188.photobucket.com/albums/z196/f1mania/DSC01994.jpg

http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1288631

[sperry]

Without a front shot, it's tough to call that even a Subaru, let alone an STi mule.

[Dean]

Nice car cover. ;)

Steel wheels that clear Brembos? They look like 16s at best. I don't think so.

[sperry]

Nice car cover. ;)

Steel wheels that clear Brembos? They look like 16s at best. I don't think so.
The spare tires that come with the car clear Brembos... why wouldn't some low-offset steelies clear too?

[tysonK]

prius with hybird wing power.

[Dean]

The spare tires that come with the car clear Brembos... why wouldn't some low-offset steelies clear too?Sure you could make some, but I don't think they are an off the shelf item or a bunch of people would use them as winter rims...

[Nick Koan]

Test mules don't need brakes.

[sperry]

Sure you could make some, but I don't think they are an off the shelf item or a bunch of people would use them as winter rims...
The Spec-C in Japan comes on steelies. I'm pretty sure Subaru has 4 of them lying around.

[Dean]

The Spec-C in Japan comes on steelies. I'm pretty sure Subaru has 4 of them lying around.I did not know that... OK

[JonnydaJibba]

WTF Starbucks is everywhere!

[NevadaSTi]

Those rims do look like spare tire rims. LOL.

[sybir]

That's most likely the new Toyota/Lexus hybrid. Not sure what the wing is about, but the car is way too high.

[AtomicLabMonkey]

Found this somewhere else.



That looks absolutely fan-fucking-tastic. Whoever did that should be hired as Subaru's chief designer with the quickness.

[knucklesplitter]

2009 STI spy photos:
http://blogs.edmunds.com/Straightline/3024

[Evo Mike]

I dont know about all of you guys.. but i think the new wrx looks great. Very useful and it will be fast.

[JC]

I like the new STI but the EVO X is looking mighty fine.

http://images4.worldcarfans.com/spyphotos/6070703.002/6070703.002.mini2L.jpg

[cody]

http://www.autovandaag.nl/foto.php?x=800&y=534&f=http://www.autovandaag.nl/upl/newsitem_674_2935.jpg&t=newsitem&tid=674&pid=2935

http://blogs.edmunds.com/Straightline/3024

I'm liking it for the most part. The tails are still fugly, but oh well.

[NevadaSTi]

I kind of like it. Its definetly better than my current vehicle.

[cody]

*cough* That's not saying much *cough* :P

[BOO]

http://www.autovandaag.nl/foto.php?x=800&y=534&f=http://www.autovandaag.nl/upl/newsitem_674_2935.jpg&t=newsitem&tid=674&pid=2935

http://blogs.edmunds.com/Straightline/3024

I'm liking it for the most part. The tails are still fugly, but oh well.



Hopefully the Rear windshield wiper makes it into production(For the USDM I mean)

[Libila]

I like it, a lot. So much so that I may sell my 05.

[knucklesplitter]

I know the front overhang is a byproduct of the Subies' functionally-superior AWD setup ( because the engine must sit far forward), but the new hatch's backend makes the front overhang very pronounced. Anybody else bothered by that?

[cody]

I know the front overhang is a byproduct of the Subies' functionally-superior AWD setup ( because the engine must sit far forward), but the new hatch's backend makes the front overhang very pronounced. Anybody else bothered by that?

Doesn't bother me but I see what you're saying.

http://blogs.edmunds.com/.ee9c4d9/cmd.233/enclosure..ee9c4da

[M3n2c3]

Ick, I just noticed that. The GDs have a better balance between front and rear (visually, not weight-wise, of course). . .

I guess it's not too bad considering I had to have it pointed out. :P

[cody]

I think it looks GOOD. I've always wanted an STI wagon.

[Libila]

I like it too. The only thing that's bugging me is the tail lights. The 06-07 tails still bug me too.

[100_Percent_Juice]

^ just get some altezza tails :rolleyes:

[Libila]

^ just get some altezza tails :rolleyes:

That's an option. I'm sure APC or a equal-quality company will have something out within six months of its release.

[sperry]

That's an option. I'm sure APC or a equal-quality company will have something out within six months of its release.
APC was sued out of business like a year ago over selling non-DOT approved tail-lights as DOT approved, weren't they?

[MPREZIV]

I recall hearing about the non-DOT tails, but I think they didn't go out of business. May be wrong.

[100_Percent_Juice]

^they aren't out of business until the last neon tube at pep boys is sold.

[M3n2c3]

APC was sued out of business like a year ago over selling non-DOT approved tail-lights as DOT approved, weren't they?

They ought to be at least. . . I've seen way too many trucks nearly rear-ended due to their shitty aftermarket tails.

[Libila]

I hope their not out of business because I plan on buying every compatible part in their catalogue for my 08 STi when I get one.

[ScottyS]

I know the front overhang is a byproduct of the Subies' functionally-superior AWD setup ( because the engine must sit far forward), but the new hatch's backend makes the front overhang very pronounced. Anybody else bothered by that?

Looks like a French Honda Civic.


*ducks*

[JC]

I hope their not out of business because I plan on buying every compatible part in their catalogue for my 08 STi when I get one.

I dunno their website is looking pretty bleak...

http://www.performancestyleattitude.com/home.htm

[Libila]

Yeah, but their fine products are still being sold by reputable dealers such as SFX Performance...

http://www.sfxperformance.com/parts/APC.asp

[k-dogg39]

Just saw this on I-club, thought I would post it here...

http://www.dpccars.com/car-videos/07-12-07page-2009-Subaru-WRX-STi.htm

[JonnydaJibba]

Cool.

[cody]

Extensive WRX Review: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FullTests/articleId=121788

Be sure to hit "next" at the bottom of the screen for a 2nd opinion and full specs.

[cody]

WRX competition?

http://www.motortrend.com/future/spied_vehicles/112_0707_mitsubishi_lancer_ralliart

[Nick Koan]

The SRT-USA version debuted at the X-Games.

http://rally.subaru.com/gallery/2007_x_blog/day3/LG2_2991.jpg

[MattR]

Aweful, embarrasing,terrible. I'm glad I'm a Toyota guy now, damn.

[JC]

It just gets worse and I thought I the bugeye was bad. Unless the STi is ungodly nice I'm definitely getting an EVO X. So sad.

[knucklesplitter]

Saw a WRX commercial or two during the Giants game Saturday night at the Tide. Can't find it on youtube. I really hope the STI is awesome because the WRX looks pretty... "sedate".

Does anybody know someone who intends to buy an '08?

[BOO]

Saw a WRX commercial or two during the Giants game Saturday night at the Tide. Can't find it on youtube. I really hope the STI is awesome because the WRX looks pretty... "sedate".

Does anybody know someone who intends to buy an '08?

I have seen a couple(Commercials) as well.. I might buy an '08..
That is, if I get rid of a couple of Imprezas first.. :lol:

[JonnydaJibba]

Even my girlfriend said it likes every other car on the road. Poor Impreza. I think it's got the Joan Rivers Syndrome. It's had so many face lifts in such a short amount of time, there's no way to make that thing attractive anymore.

[cody]

^ :lol:

[knucklesplitter]

2008 WRX on Ebay:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/2008-SUBARU-IMPREZA-WRX-BRAND-NEW_W0QQitemZ160144386890QQihZ006QQcategoryZ31868Q QssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

:rolleyes: *eleventy-billion

[sperry]

I was at Lithia today picking up some touch-up paint... took a look at a black WRX 5-door that was on the lot. They're not as bad as the pictures make them out to be, but they're still hideously bad.

I'd love to swap the interior into an '07 though.

Oh, and the sticker on the WRX was $30,000... winter package, no leather, no sunroof. :roll:

[cody]

Yah, Jeremy was letting us know what the stickers were on the new ones. Nick sounded awful curious about the Spec-B...

http://www.rsportscars.com/foto/01/legacyspecb07_05.jpg

[cody]

Hmmm.

http://stadium.weblogsinc.com/autoblog/hirezpics/newlegacy03.jpg

[Nick Koan]

Yeah, the 08's are pretty sweet, but the 08 spec b MSRP is over 10k more than I paid for my GT.

No thanks.

Besides, the 07 spec b interior is better than the 08 :p

EDIT: pictures for posterity

07 top, 08 bottom

[cody]

http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/09/first-l...g-to-frankfurt/ (http://www.autoblog.com/2007/08/09/first-look-subaru-wrc-concept-heading-to-frankfurt/)

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/08/subwrc08conc_front.jpg

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/08/subwrc08conc_rear.jpg

Next month in Frankfurt, we'll all get our first looks at Subaru's new WRC car in the form of the Subaru WRC Concept. The automaker will have driver Petter Solberg on hand for the introduction of the racer, which for all intents and purposes shows us what the next-gen Impreza WRC car will look like. It should also offer a very strong hint at the styling of the forthcoming Impreza STI. The STI grille, big wing and bulging bodywork do the new Impreza some good, as this looks worlds better and far more aggressive than the soft-looking standard car. Subaru has released no details other than the two images you see here. Rest assured, our Frankfurt team will bring you the full scoop from the floor in Germany next month.

[sperry]

Better.

[knucklesplitter]

Much better...

[sperry]

Why do the tail lights have to look so crappy? And the grill is still too busy.

[JonnydaJibba]

Not bad. I'd hit it.

[WRX06TR]

I have to agree with Scott, change the grill and the tail lights and I'd hit it...

[Emboyoyo]

I like it!! just not the tail lights...

[Kevin M]

I'm sure Rockblcker is already all over a 2008 making smoked taillight covers. I'm not a fan of mesh-style grills either, but if I ever hold out for a perfect car, I'll be riding the bus for a long time.

[k-dogg39]

This was also posted on i-club. Guy said he took the picture at the X-games...

http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c392/k-dogg39/WRC.jpg

[cody]

Yummy Chop based on the pics I posted yesterday:

http://www.wrxfanatics.com/uploads/monthly_08_2007/post-2465-1186757164.jpg

[Kevin M]

uNf. I didn't need that other kidney anyway...

[JC]

So I went to the Subaru WRX ride and drive yesterday ugh the new WRX is terrible. The interior is god awful. At the least the bugeye was only awful on the outside (well unless you count the driver). There is no chance in hell I will buy a new STi now.

[Dean]

Yeah, I think the value of the '04-'07s went up when they introduced the '08s

[MPREZIV]

Hell, I think my car's worth TWICE what I paid for it by now! :lol:

[Dean]

Hell, I think my car's worth TWICE what I paid for it by now! :lol:But that is all in the hood. :P :lol:

[Nick Koan]

WRC Debut

http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2008-subaru-wrc-concept/392436/

[cody]

Not feelin' it. :(

[sperry]

Not feelin' it. :(
Me either. Looks okay, but pretty much like the ugly WRX with all the WRC bits on it.

Hopefully those fenders make it on the STi... but I doubt they'll be that flared on a production car. :(

[M3n2c3]

I like it

[Libila]

Yeah, I think the value of the '04-'07s went up when they introduced the '08s

They wen't up significantly. I bought my 05 STi for $23k and I checked the blue book value a couple weeks ago and it's now worth $27k!

I'm going to the Frankfurt Auto Show on Saturday to see the WRC concept. I know pictures have already been released but I'm going to take a bunch, so if you guys want to see them let me know.

[Nick Koan]

Yeah, post pics if you get them. I'm certainly interested in seeing pictures other than official photos.

[JonnydaJibba]

Have you guys seen the new WRX commercial? WOW. It screams everything about what they have done to the Impreza and their current marketing campaign. Horible (Or - ee - blay).

[k-dogg39]

Have you guys seen the new WRX commercial? WOW. It screams everything about what they have done to the Impreza and their current marketing campaign. Horible (Or - ee - blay).

Agreed. Just saw it the other day.

[Nick Koan]

Link?

[sperry]

Link?
http://www.zeldaringtone.com/images/zelda-link.gif

[Dean]

No, it is much gheyer than little green elves...

http://video.on.nytimes.com/?fr_story=597d89c8d6a7521869c30d9b8a77d50783ff5d39&rf=sitemap

[cody]

They're all bad:

http://youtube.com/watch?v=dDf1e32lOIk

[M3n2c3]

Empirical evidence shows that Link is not gay.

[JonnydaJibba]

This is true.

[M3n2c3]

I actually like the offroad commercial. . .

[sybir]

the best new WRX commercial....

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_cKNR3yLM0A

Saw it in Canada first, haven't seen it here yet.

[MikeK]

the best new WRX commercial....

http://youtube.com/watch?v=_cKNR3yLM0A

Saw it in Canada first, haven't seen it here yet.

Oversteer in a WRX?? Isn't that false advertising?

[cody]

:lol:

[sybir]

Oversteer in a WRX?? Isn't that false advertising?


Nah, it goes :underunderunderunderunderunderunderslamonbrakesoh sh*wham*:

[Dean]

My STI now has power on oversteer. :)

I only have rear facing video of my 30+ degree fully crossed up arms drift with clean recovery out of turn 2 at Buttonwillow to show for it, but it was quite fun. I need more rear camber to eliminate it.

[100_Percent_Juice]

I need more rear camber.

who doesn't.

[sperry]

who doesn't.
Judging by the wear on my rears... not me! :devil:

[100_Percent_Juice]

Judging by the wear on my rears... not me! :devil:

trust me, we have all heard about the wear on your rear.:P

[sperry]

trust me, we have all heard about the wear on your rear.:P
Hemroids? (rear burn?)

[Libila]

The WRC concept gets my approval...

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/2675/5414/195050.jpg

[tysonK]

you look german

[100_Percent_Juice]

you look hungry, go get a damn big mac or something.

[Libila]

I was hungry when that was taken and European McDonalds sucks big time, not that McDonalds is good anyway.

[JonnydaJibba]

You lucky dog Tim.

[Forgotten]

Looks like here is the mostly undisguised version of the 08 STI.
http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/20/spy-shots-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti-caught-undisguised-on-ring/
I like those fender flares.

[sperry]

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/07/wrxsti.ret.kgp.ed.jpg

I don't like that tire in the air... I thought the rear suspension was supposed to be "improved"... 'course that's mostly a front suspension issue that's lifting the rear tire.

[sperry]

Also... roll cage and race seats? Does Subaru really push the STi that hard during final testing like this?

[cody]

I don't like that tire in the air... I thought the rear suspension was supposed to be "improved"... 'course that's mostly a front suspension issue that's lifting the rear tire.

Those pics are older so they may have addressed it.

[Forgotten]

http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/09/0wrx.sti.ldre.kgp.ed.jpg
Looks like this is just lifting because of the carousel. The older one looks like it may be lifting for the same reason.

[Nick Koan]

Also, the first official photo was released today as well.

Its kinda artsy and dark in parts. But, it shows a little bit.

http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/407662/full/

[sperry]

Also, the first official photo was released today as well.

Its kinda artsy and dark in parts. But, it shows a little bit.

http://www.autoblog.com/photos/2008-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/407662/full/
At least they went all-out on the flares! Maybe we can finally get some usefully wide tires under there.

[Dean]

I don't like that tire in the air... I thought the rear suspension was supposed to be "improved"... 'course that's mostly a front suspension issue that's lifting the rear tire.Please note the positive front camber as well still. :rolleyes:

[cody]

Mazda Speed 3 VS WRX. Click Play Video from this link: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drive...ticleId=121942# (http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/Comparos/articleId=121942#)

[cody]

1 month till the actual release:

http://www.subaru.jp/impreza/wrx_sti/img/image_photo.jpg

http://www.subaru.jp/impreza/wrx_sti/index.html

[M3n2c3]

Eh?

[Nick Koan]

Here is an interesting mode of advertisement in the UK.

They are just driving around with them like this.

The upside down cars have had their engines and transmissions removed as this is solely advertising, not actual vehicle shipment.

Full article: http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/29/adventures-in-advertising-subaglued/

[wrxkidid]

waste of space?

[cody]

Ghey?

[Kevin M]

That's pretty awesome actually.

[knucklesplitter]

<insert barfing emoticon here>

[JonnydaJibba]

I think upside down cars are tight.

[M3n2c3]

It's pretty clever. :lol:

[kidatari]

The car carrier is pretty damn clever.

And the most recent silhouette photos make my pants tight. The new WRX=oogly, the new STI=has potential.

[Forgotten]

Here are some Official Pictures of the JDM STI
http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2007/10/sti__05.jpg
http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/09/officially-official-subaru-impreza-wrx-sti/
According to a scanned brochure on IWSTI specs are
(308PS) 304hp/6400rpm; (43kgm) 311lb-ft/4400rpm
(mm) 4415 x 1795 x 1475
(inch) 173.8 x 70.7 x 58.1
Weight 1480kg/3263lb (1470kg/3241lb for 17" and 18" BBS option)

If they follow the trend of 20 more HP for the USDM model than the JDM model...

[Nick Koan]

I kinda like the wheels on the silver one.

Overall, I think they look pretty good. Much better than the WRX.

[sybir]

I'd hit that, like 9 times. Looks hot as hell. If I hadn't bought Dave's car, I'd definitely be grabbing one of the '08's. Proportions are perfect.

[Kevin M]

I dig it, even in silver.

[Dean]

I think in general they have lost the 30+ or 35+ crowd with the hatchback, but maybe it is just me.

Hatchbacks remind me of the Rabbit's/golfs, Hondas, etc. mostly driven by teenagers and early 20 somethings as first or second cars.

I bet they just pushed that market segment/demographic to the much more mature looking Evo despite it's snubbed nose.

The older Coupes even look much better IMHO.

I'd drive one as a race car, but would prefer not to have one as a daily driver.

[kidatari]

I think in general they have lost the 30+ or 35+ crowd with the hatchback, but maybe it is just me.

Hatchbacks remind me of the Rabbit's/golfs, Hondas, etc. mostly driven by teenagers and early 20 somethings as first or second cars.

I bet they just pushed that market segment/demographic to the much more mature looking Evo despite it's snubbed nose.

The older Coupes even look much better IMHO.

I'd drive one as a race car, but would prefer not to have one as a daily driver.

Now all you need to do is shake your fist and yell 'DAMN KIDS!'

New STI is hot. I hate myself for saying that, but damn. Subaru actually made it work.

And those 5-spoke wheels are lovely.

[sperry]

I'm gonna get a white one w/ the gold 18-spokes.

Who wants to buy an SVX?

[Kevin M]

I think in general they have lost the 30+ or 35+ crowd with the hatchback, but maybe it is just me.

Hatchbacks remind me of the Rabbit's/golfs, Hondas, etc. mostly driven by teenagers and early 20 somethings as first or second cars.

I bet they just pushed that market segment/demographic to the much more mature looking Evo despite it's snubbed nose.

The older Coupes even look much better IMHO.

I'd drive one as a race car, but would prefer not to have one as a daily driver.

How is a hatchback worse than a wagon? It's a wagon that dorks who think wagons aren't cool can't call not cool. Or something like that.

[Forgotten]

I'm gonna get a white one w/ the gold 18-spokes.


That's exactly what I'm thinking.

[MPREZIV]

How is a hatchback worse than a wagon? It's a wagon that dorks who think wagons aren't cool can't call not cool. Or something like that.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot...

[Kevin M]

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot...

I had a point in there, but damned if I can figure out how to articulate it. :lol:

[Dean]

New STI is hot. I hate myself for saying that, but damn. Subaru actually made it work. And how old are you? My point exactly.

[Dean]

How is a hatchback worse than a wagon? It's a wagon that dorks who think wagons aren't cool can't call not cool. Or something like that.

:huh:

I'd drive an A/S4/6 Avant (AKA wagon) long before I'd drive an A3.

The -'07 WRX Sport Wagons look better than the new hatch IMHO by the same token.

[cody]

I had a point in there, but damned if I can figure out how to articulate it. :lol:

It's like a wagon that even retards, who don't appreciate wagons, will like?

[Kevin M]

It's like a wagon that even retards, who don't appreciate wagons, will like?

Yeah, I think that was it. :lol:

[JonnydaJibba]

Kevin you're trippin.

[JC]

I'm gonna get a white one w/ the gold 18-spokes.

Enjoy your flat seats and slow steering ratio. SOA FTL

[wrxkidid]

That can definatly can be fixed though. I like both of the new cars...the X and the new STi although I think the X will look sleek and sexy wingless.

[bxracer69]

I want one with the wrc wing on it... the hotness just get hotter

[sperry]

Enjoy your flat seats and slow steering ratio. SOA FTL
Yeah, I just saw the specs stuff that leaked. 15:1 steering seems like a step in the wrong direction unless there's some crazy new business in the diffs that makes it turn better w/ less steering input (not likely). And only 305 hp? I thought the specs would have been bumped more than that...

But damn, the JDM car w/ that 2.0L twin-scroll... :drool: 300ftlbs of torque! Nice work in their home market... 'course that's why the JDM car costs twice as much as the US car.

(Here's what I'm referring to BTW)

http://i22.tinypic.com/20i7z9y.jpg

http://i20.tinypic.com/mueats.jpg

http://i24.tinypic.com/8yawdu.jpg

http://i23.tinypic.com/308cigh.jpg

[NevadaSTi]

Interesting, they are putting the Dunlop SP01 on the US versions. I wonder why?

[ScottyS]

It's going to be very difficult to take something that closely resembles an engorged '98 Civic seriously.

However, that hood scoop looks like something on a Discovery Channel "Swimming with the Whale Sharks" episode. Cool.

In short, the front half looks hot, the back half could use some Lipo.

[doubleurx]

Wow, it does look a ton better than I thought it would. That scoop looks like you could suck a racoon in there.

[knucklesplitter]

The front is really nice. The flares really help the ugly Impreza. Thumbs up there!

The back end is awful. It's the rounded roofline - so no body kitting is gonna help I don't think. A sedan or 2-door coupe version would f-in' rawk. I'm not necessarily a hatch or wagon hater, but this doesn't do it for me.

Now... let's see the USDM engine!

[knucklesplitter]

I'm gonna get a white one w/ the gold 18-spokes.

Seriously? I have some ideas for KSTech products for it:
- Dual Supertrap axle-back
- FMIC (of course)
- Ram air CAI using the scoop on FMIC car

Any other ideas?

[100_Percent_Juice]

KSTech Chrome window washer nozzles!

[knucklesplitter]

Oh no... here it comes... :rolleyes:

A rad line of valve stems too! And I'm sure curb feelers will make a comeback.

[100_Percent_Juice]

^Don't be silly. Valve stems are so 1997... except for those 4" red and green Christmas specials some people rock.;)

[sperry]

Seriously? I have some ideas for KSTech products for it:
- Dual Supertrap axle-back
- FMIC (of course)
- Ram air CAI using the scoop on FMIC car

Any other ideas?
If I get one, it will get a massive front sway bar and a set of hoosiers, and that's it (unless the OEM shocks are significantly softer than previous STi shocks, in which case I would consider some Koni DA's). I'm keeping it AS legal and making sure my warranty is in full effect... I've learned my lesson. ;)

[MattR]

If I get one, it will get a massive front sway bar and a set of hoosiers, and that's it (unless the OEM shocks are significantly softer than previous STi shocks, in which case I would consider some Koni DA's). I'm keeping it AS legal and making sure my warranty is in full effect... I've learned my lesson. ;)

That put's a tear in my eye! Bravo! :lol:

[Dean]

If I get one, it will get a massive front sway bar and a set of hoosiers, and that's it (unless the OEM shocks are significantly softer than previous STi shocks, in which case I would consider some Koni DA's). I'm keeping it AS legal and making sure my warranty is in full effect... I've learned my lesson. ;)What about a cat-back? 1/4" wider, ultra-light wheels? ;)

[JC]

That put's a tear in my eye! Bravo! :lol:

They grow up so, well, slow. :lol: I really hope you do get a new STi Scott and not just because you have a bugeye now.

[NevadaSTi]

I like the Silver STi, but then again, I am partial to Silver STi's.

[kidatari]

Tokyo Motor Show 2008 Subaru WRX STI Debut (http://www.autoblog.com/2007/10/24/tokyo-motor-show-subaru-wrx-sti-debut/)

Dang.

[Libila]

I don't like the look of the brakes, wheels, tails, grill, front seats and the steering wheel. Other than that I think it's pretty cool.

[khail19]

So according to that article, all of the new STi wheels will not be forged anymore? Kinda sucks.

Eye-catching 18-inch aluminum-cast wheels, distinguished by
their five spokes and highlighted by dark-tone high-luster paint, are standard. These wheels enhance the vehicle's bold and commanding presence while expressing high quality and streamlined beauty. BBS-brand cast wheels with spokes and sharp lines are also available as an option.

[MattR]

I still want one badly.

[Nick Koan]

So according to that article, all of the new STi wheels will not be forged anymore? Kinda sucks.

Forged doesn't necessarily mean better.

Granted, I'm sure with BBS cast vs. BBS forged, BBS forged would be the better wheel, but I'd still take BBS (or Enkei) cast over no-name forged.

[khail19]

Forged doesn't necessarily mean better.

Granted, I'm sure with BBS cast vs. BBS forged, BBS forged would be the better wheel, but I'd still take BBS (or Enkei) cast over no-name forged.

I agree, forged wheels aren't necessary on a street car IMO. Especially with cast wheel technology getting to the point where they are very light already, such as the Enkei Racing line. The cast BBS wheels that I've seen are fairly heavy though, hopefully these STi wheels will be nice and light.

People will still whine about it though, regardless of weight.

[bxracer69]

I want one... but I want some things on it to be different
1) No crappy silver accents
2) Get rid of the fog lights - they ruin the front end
3) Bye Bye Little Wing... Hello WRC wing
4) Gold 18"s, WRB....

SOLD!

[MattR]

I still want one, badly. Fortunately, now Carrie wants one too!!! I wonder what kind of trade we can get on teh Mini!

[sperry]

I still can't figure out people's problem with the brakes. They're the same brembo brakes, just painted black w/ STi logos on 'em.

[khail19]

And once you go black...

[MikeK]

And once you go black...

You go deaf!

[MPREZIV]

Dammit... Mike beat me to it!

[cody]

http://blog.cardomain.com/blog/2007/11/an-old-friend-r.html

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/4/web/2416000-2416999/2416491_388_full.jpg

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/4/web/2416000-2416999/2416491_387_full.jpg

http://memimage.cardomain.net/member_images/4/web/2416000-2416999/2416491_389_full.jpg

[cody]

Some more reviews about the new suspension.

From http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drive...rticleId=123381 (http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/Drives/FirstDrives/articleId=123381)
The more you play around with the traction control systems and engine mapping, the more you will appreciate what Subaru has done with the car's handling. It's simply superb. Turn in and the STI stays flatter in the corners with less body roll than ever before, as all four 245/40R18 Bridgestone Potenza RE050A tires work hard to retain maximum grip. Chief engineer Mori reminds us that new double wishbones up the back suppress roll when compared to the ousted struts.

After a few hot laps around Fuji, we know exactly what he means. The car corners sharper, understeers less at the limit, and feels more planted going into and coming out of corners. From http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/first_drive.p...1237&page=6 (http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/first_drive.php?sid=1237&page=6)
The ride has improved and body control is still tight, while traction and grip remain near-unbreakable; if you keep your nerve and keep your foot on the gas, the Impreza will pull itself through almost anything.

From http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/subar..._jdm/index.html (http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/subaru/0711_2008_subaru_wrx_sti_jdm/index.html)
But where the new Rex is soft and spongy, the STI stays true to its roots. Because we drove the new STI only around the ultrasmooth Fuji racetrack, we can't yet provide any information on ride quality, but the WRX's lack of roll stiffness was definitely absent. Not that body roll wasn't present, but it wasn't at Camry (http://www.automobilemag.com/reviews/subaru/0711_2008_subaru_wrx_sti_jdm/index.html#) levels like it is in the WRX.The STI is a very quick car around a race course. If your right foot is anywhere near the gas pedal, understeer is what you'll get, but the rear end comes alive in high-speed corners if you ask it to.

From http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hatchb...aru_wrx_sti_jdm (http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/hatchbacks/112_0711_2008_subaru_wrx_sti_jdm)
So how does it perform? In most ways better than the second-generation car, though it may not immediately seem that way... But rest assured, the new car certainly should perform as well as or better than the old one, especially in the handling department.

Generally speaking, the WRX STI still feels like it is essentially a nose-heavy understeerer, but miracles of modern mechanical engineering allow the car to track the fast line at Fuji like a slot-car. The fat tires, loaded nose, and varying front-axle torque all conspire to stifle steering feel, and it's occasionally tricky to determine what percentage of the car's available grip has been probed at any given point in a curve. But when you realize you're past the limit, a quick lift off the throttle or brush of the brakes generally tucks the car back into line. It's an incredibly forgiving chassis that'll require some extremely ham-fisted piloting to throw away on a racetrack. Further evidence of its neutral and forgiving nature: Two busloads of international journalists from every corner of the WRX empire completed their four or five lapping sessions in six cars without ever leaving the track, and none of the tires showed excessive shoulder wear or seemed desperately in need of changing.

[JC]

I went and sat in one at the LA Auto Show. The exterior was ok the interior was awful and the seats were just sad. The girl I was with said I should "definitely" get an EVO X over an STI. I think I'll stick with my VIII. Subaru definitely lost a customer with me.

[cody]

The new STI is a butterface. I'd cheat on my car with this beauty.

[cody]

Interesting. If you click on Meet the Brotherhood, there's links to all you're favorite Suby forums. There's even talk of "tuning". :o

http://www.subaru.com/sub/misc/2008/autoshow/ny0311/wrx/index.html?cid=tr_2008_STI_preorder&module=wrx_sti

[cody]

Ugh, I think they made the 5 spoke wheels especially ugly so you'd pay for the BBS upgrade.

[cody]

Oh snap!

[cody]

Okay, well I got all excited about the 8k redline and then noticed the speedo is in Km/Hr. This must be a shot from the JDM car which has a 2.0L motor. I was thinking it was a shot from the USDM 2.5L STi. :(

[wrxkidid]

I was thinking the same thing.

[cody]

http://www.caradvice.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2007/12/sti-3.thumbnail.jpg

http://www.caradvice.com.au/8777/new-sti-bites-the-dust/

[knucklesplitter]

I think the rear looks better like that... :P