leads me to think that there will not be a STi, or that mofo is going to be a bigger beast w/ a nasty price tag!
Opie from Mastro said that they had been hearing this from Subaru since February. That tells me that it is all true. I trust the Opie. I am so glad I am indecisive and have been delaying trading my RX8. I will have an 09 WRX hatch.
Hopefully so, I will be in the market in 2010 and maybe they will have worked the bugs out of the new design, or the bigger ones anyway.
http://forums.nasioc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1562539 Video of a 09 WRX sedan. It has enough power to roast the tires pretty good in those slides. Edit: Also, everything mentioned has pretty much been confirmed. More power, stiffer suspension and exterior and interior changes. Full specs and official pics will be out Thursday July 31st.
Everything is pointing to a stronger 5 speed. Not strong enough for drag racing but I wouldn't expect it to be strong enough to survive lots of hard launches.
I wonder how much of this is just ECU reprogramming and how much is actual hardware contributing to the increased power. A stronger 5spd or even a weaker 6spd would be a nice option since they should be backwards compatible with older models. Maybe even some better gearing for the 2.5 engines?
Don't get too excited about the transmission. It will propbably not have the speed sensor in the tranny but in the abs instead. This will keep it from being a plug and play solution. The 08 STi is already this way.
this isn't that hard to believe, with mitsu releasing thier cheaper turbo version raliart that makes 280hpor somewhere around that. Its only natural that suby has to do something to keep up sales.
An SOA rep on Nasioc basically said its a WRX emblem on the sedan. Its in the same spot as the STI emblem. The same SOA rep has basically confirmed everything that was rumored in the "leak".
I was at Classic during my last oil change. Test drove the 08 sedan. Kind of suprising actually. I was expecting allot less. The 5sp is really smooth, than again I drive an 02. The powerband was very even and the pull was decent all the way through 3rd atleast. I was even able get the sales guy to make a few faces. He did mention that Subaru was moving towards an Sti Sedan for 09 or 10. Don't know if he was speaking out of his ass but he seemd like he was pretty confident about that.......Hmmmmph
i actually like the sti hatchback, my friend pointed out a 08 wrx sedan to me and i didnt even see it at first i thought it was a corolla :wtc: the flares on the sti really is a difference to me
Yea the only thing I liked was the hoodscoop. Really quiet inside too..Legacyish:eek3: Worth a test drive just for kicks! I don't mind the hatch, it grows on you in person. No Brembo's though :thumbsdow
I test drove the 08 sti and I wasn't impressed. It body rolled and felt much more top heavy than my 04 wrx did stock.
Yeah King mentioned he drove one when I was up there and was very unimpressed...I sure hope SOA monitors these posts....................since they have failed
http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do/News/articleId=130014#8 If you're an 08 owner you have got to be a little irritated with this. Though, I may take a serious look at the 09 hatch now...
I was all set to buy a 08.5 MS3 this weekend. With the 40% increase in spring rate(which puts the springs right where I was looking for in aftermarket springs), I am putting everything on hold. Right now the car looks like it needs bigger sways and that's about it suspension wise. Maybe some upgraded bushings here and there but not the wholesale replacement that I thought the 08 WRX needed. Steering rack bushings and maybe the bushings in the arms but I doubt that because they would need stiffer bushings in the arms with the sticker tires and higher spring rate.
The article talks about larger sways...without knowing the diameter, how did you decide you would still need more?
Kind of like then the corvette Z06 got a 20hp bump the year after it was introduced...except a little worse. Don't get me wrong...I continue to absolutely love my car, but on principle this is quite crappy of subaru to do. I do, however, maintain that my baseline whp numbers were about what this car is rated at or more...so idk.
They change from a 20-21 in the front and a 15 to a 16 in the rear. I am a fan of the big bars. I was looking at Perrin and thinking of the 25mm front and 22mm rear. http://media.subaru.com/ This link has more info on the car including the spring rate and sway bar increases.
the full press release...or most of it... FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SUBARU BOOSTS 2009 IMPREZA WRX TO 265 HORSEPOWER . “Kyo-Ka” Goal Delivers Quicker, Sharper-Handling WRX . Re-tuned Suspension and 17-inch Summer Performance Tires . New Impreza 2.5GT Model Powered by 224-hp Turbo Intercooled Engine Cherry Hill, NJ--Subaru is revving up performance and handling in its iconic All-Wheel Drive Impreza WRX sport compact for 2009, following the debut of the all-new model in 2008. Performance leaps to a higher level in the 2009 WRX thanks to a 265 horsepower turbocharged intercooled Boxer engine, retuned suspension and wider, lower-profile summer performance tires. WRX enthusiasts will quickly identify the 2009 models by the ST-type grille and standard Aero Package. The 2009 Impreza WRX comes with a 5-speed manual transmission. New Impreza GT Model Subaru is also introducing a new Impreza 2.5GT model for 2009, powered by a 224-horsepower turbocharged intercooled engine teamed to a standard 4-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT. Both the more powerful WRX and the new 2.5GT are available as 4-Door and 5-Door models. As on all Subaru models, the Impreza WRX and 2.5GT models are equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (two different versions – see page 2 for details.) The goal of the 2009 WRX team was termed “Kyo-Ka” (translated from Japanese as “strengthening”). To achieve this goal Subaru engineers thoroughly revamped the performance character of the WRX for 2009. Gaining a larger turbocharger, along with a new larger-diameter exhaust and low-density catalyst for reduced backpressure, the WRX engine now produces 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,000 rpm – significant increases from the 224 horsepower and 226 lb.-ft. in the 2008 version. The Impreza WRX debuted an all-new platform for the 2008 model year, featuring a longer 103.1-inch wheelbase and an all-new double-wishbone rear suspension system. Revised suspension tuning for 2009 further bolsters WRX’s street performance credentials. The standard 17 x 7-inch aluminum alloy wheels now wear 225/45R17 summer performance tires, compared to 205/50R17 all-season tires used on the 2008 WRX. The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system, which is standard on all Impreza models for 2009, helps to enhance the WRX model’s road handling safety. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, which forms the common core technology on all Subaru models, gives the Impreza WRX a significant handling performance advantage over front-wheel drive competitors. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the Boxer engine and the full-time power distribution system (varies by model and transmission). The aluminum Boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the car’s center of gravity, which in turn contributes to its handling characteristics. The 2009 Impreza WRX employs a viscous coupling locking center differential that distributes torque 50:50 front/rear. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction. The 2009 Impreza 2.5GT, like other Subaru models equipped with automatic transmission, uses a different version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. An electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration, and available traction. This active torque-split system automatically transfers more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur. Suspension Re-Tuned For Sharper Handling Subaru significantly re-tuned the suspension on the 2009 WRX, resulting in sharper turn-in and more responsive handling overall. Front upper strut mounts are adopted from the STI. The front spring rate is increased from 26.5 N/mm to 38 N/mm, and the rear spring rate is increased from 24 N/mm to 34 N/mm. Diameter of the stabilizer bars is also increased, from 20 mm to 21 mm in front and from 15 mm to 16 mm in the rear. Suspension damping has also been re-tuned. Notably, the new, stiffer suspension tuning did not require any further reinforcement of the inherently strong Impreza body structure. Because the wider tires used on the 2009 WRX give more kickback than those on the 2008 model, a new damper valve was added to the steering gearbox to ensure a smooth and high quality steering feeling. The Impreza WRX chassis is designed for improved rigidity and ride comfort and employs high-tension steel at key structural points. In addition to providing a basis for more responsive handling, the double-wishbone rear suspension that debuted in the new-generation Impreza models enables a smooth ride quality as well as decreased road noise for a quieter cabin. The new-generation design results in a lower overall weight for the body while the longer wheelbase allows for improved ride dynamics, more interior room and reduced levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH). In addition, the new chassis improves crash-worthiness and provides a stiffer platform for crisper handling. Placing the engine slightly lower in the chassis than in the previous-generation Impreza models helped lower the center of gravity in the new Impreza platform, enhancing steering response. With the Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept (DC3), Subaru optimized all elements of the Impreza’s chassis to deliver a better balance of handling response, ride quality, quietness and overall traction performance than offered by competitive vehicles. (See “Performance” section of this press kit for further details.) New WRX Aero Body Styling On both 2009 WRX Sedan and 5-Door models, a new STI-type grille carries the WRX badge. Both models get a sharpened new look from the standard Aero Package, which was formerly part of the optional WRX Premium Package. Both body styles also feature front and rear under-bumper spoilers and aerodynamic side ground effects. The sedan has a low-profile rear trunk spoiler, while the 5-Door adopts the WRX STI rear spoiler and a rear diffuser. The rear garnish panel between the light clusters is body color on the 5-Door and chrome on the sedan. Other distinctions between the two models continue as before, including clear rear tail lamp lenses for the 5-Door and red lenses on the sedan. The 4-Door features dual tailpipe outlets, while the 5-Door uses a single, larger outlet (stainless steel on Premium Package.) Rally-Inspired Interior The WRX interior introduced new comfort and spaciousness for 2008, and for 2009 it gains new WRX-exclusive carbon black checkered upholstery accented by red stitching. The standard tilt and telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel is accented by red stitching and standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers now include the driver’s footrest. Performance-design front seats integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure. The sporty instrument panel features electroluminescent gauges, similar to the WRX STI. As in the WRX STI, the indicator needles sweep the gauge faces upon engine startup for a sporty effect. The WRX Premium Package gains a power moonroof; other contents carry over, including the 10-speaker audio upgrade with auxiliary input jack, projector-beam fog lights, dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. The compact layout of the double-wishbone configuration helps to minimize intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wider and deeper luggage compartment. On the 5-Door WRX, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour-size golf bags with the rear seat backs in the upright position. In the WRX sedan, which is 4.5-inches longer than the previous-generation Impreza sedan and 6.5-inches longer than the new 5-Door models, the extra space provides for a larger, deeper trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. In all WRX models, a 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience. Advanced Yet Easy-To-Use Technology The available navigation and information center in Impreza WRX is the focal point of the center console. The navigation screen is located at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and ease of use. With the navigation system, the center console provides an input for MP3 players as well as RCA-type video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices. These can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked. Impreza models come pre-wired for XM® or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio. Both the standard and optional Impreza audio systems feature the Radio Broadcast Data System (RBDS) that can display a variety of information, including a song’s title and artist. The standard WRX audio system features an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and four speakers. The WRX Premium Package adds an AM/FM stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer featuring MP3/WMA file capability. Occupants enjoy powerful sound from 10 upgraded speakers (six in the front doors, four in the rear doors) and SRS® Circle Surround Sound. Also with this package, the steering wheel adds audio system switches. An auxiliary audio input jack enables connection of an iPod or MP3 player. The optional Satellite Radio and Navigation package for the WRX integrates the Audyssey MultEQ audio enhancement. Used in high-end home theater systems, Audyssey MultEQ creates the optimal sound experience for passengers in each seat position by tuning equalization that corrects for time and frequency response. The navigation system itself presents major functions through an intuitive, easy-to-use touch screen interface. This option also includes Bluetooth® hands-free wireless capability (requires accessory kit.)
2009 Subaru Impreza® WRX® and 2.5GT Specifications WRX 2.5GT Body Styles 4-Door or 5-Door, 5-passenger Engine 4-cylinder, horizontall y opposed (Boxer), turbocharged/intercooled, speciall y reinforced die-cast aluminum alloy with integral cast iron cylinder liners, five main bearings, semi-closed deck cylinder block design Displacement 2,457 cc (150 cu. in.) Bore x Stroke 99.5 x 79 mm (3.92 x 3.11 in.) Compression ratio 8.4:1 Fuel/Induction Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MFI) with multi -spray injectors, Electronic Throttle Control (ETC) system, turbocharger, intercooler (WRX uses larger, high-boost turbocharger Max. boost pressure Pending Pending Horsepower 265 @ 6,000 rpm 224 @ 5,200 rpm Torque 244 lb.-ft. @ 4,000 rpm 226 lb.-ft. @ 2,800 rpm Valvetrain Double overhead belt-driven camshafts (DOHC), four valves per cylinder, Subaru AVCS (Active Valve Control System) variable valve timing Fuel requirement Premium, 91 octane minimum Ignition Direct Firing order 1-3-2-4 Emission control system Low Emission Vehicle (LEV 2) standard, 50-state certified CA LEV 2 / Fed Bin 5, Tier 2 Alternator rating 12V, 110 Amps Drivetrain Transmission t ype 5-speed manual 4-speed automatic with SPORTSHIFT Symmetrical All Wheel Drive system Viscous-coupling locking center differential Electronically controlled variable transfer clutch Transmission ratios 1 3.166 2.785 2 1.882 1.545 3 1.296 1.000 4 0.972 0.694 5 0.738 -- R 3.333 2.272 Final drive ratio 3.90 3.90 Chassis Unitized body construction with Ring-Shaped Frame Reinforcement structure Suspension 4-wheel independent; specific performance tuning for each model (see below) Front MacPherson-type struts with multiple-phase valving; steel lower L-arms; coil springs; stabilizer bar and negative-scrub geometry Rear Double-wishbone type with stabilizer bar Tuning Front spring rate: 38 N/mm Rear spring rate: 34 N/mm Front stabilizer bar dia.: 21 mm Rear stabilizer bar dia.: 16 mm Upper strut mounts: STI Type Damping: Specific WRX tuning Front spring rate: 26.5 N/mm Rear spring rate: 24 N/mm Front stabilizer bar dia.: 20 mm Rear stabilizer bar dia.: 15 mm Upper strut mounts: Standard Type 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX and 2.5GT Specifications / 2 WRX 2.5GT Brakes Power assisted 4-wheel disc with standard 4-channel / 4-sensor ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist Front 11.6-in. ventilated disc, dual-piston calipers Rear 11.3-in. solid disc, single-piston calipers Steering Rack-and-pinion with engine-speed controlled variable power assist Ratio 15:1 Turns, lock-to-lock 2.8 Turning circle 35.4 ft. 34.8 ft. Wheels 17 x 7JJ 10-spoke aluminum alloy (gray painted for WRX) Tires 225/45R17 summer performance 205/50R17 all-season Exterior Dimensions Coefficient of drag (Cd) 4-Door: 0.32 5-Door: 0.34 Wheelbase 103.1 Length 4-Door: 180.3 in. 5-Door: 173.8 in. Width 68.5 in Height 58.1 in. Track (front/rear) 58.9 in./59.3 in. 58.9/59.1 in. Curb weight (lbs.) Base trim level: 3,174 4dr / 3,175 5dr 3,240 Interior Dimensions Headroom (f/r) 40.3 in. / 37.6 in. 4dr w/moonroof: 39.3/ 37.5 5dr w/moonroof: 39.3/37.4 (GT & WRX Premium) Legroom (f/r) 43.5 in. / 33.5 in. Hip room (f/r) 53.4 in. / 53.3 in. Shoulder room (f/r) 54.8 in. / 53.2 in. EPA interior volume 4-Door: 94.6 w/moonroof: 93.0 5-Door: 94.6 w/moonroof: 93.2 EPA trunk volume, 4-Door 11.3 cu. ft. Cargo volume, 5-Door Rear seat backs up: 19.0 cu. ft. Rear seat backs down: 44.4 cu. ft. Max. load floor length, 5-Door Rear seat backs up: 31.7 in. Rear seat backs down: 60.1 in. Cargo width between wheel housings, 5-Door 42.0 in. Fuel Efficiency EPA city mpg Pending Pending EPA highway mpg Pending Pending Fuel tank capacit y 16.9 gal
it's like a computer, TV or an iPod, they will always be improving on a good thing. they thought that a more refined car would be more appealing to the masses. well, they didn't ask the masses, so they have to rethink what they acted on. the year after i bought my '05, the '06 came out with a flippin' 2.5L version. this just means that when my '05 is ready to sell, the new STI's will have that much more power progress, it's a good thing. would you guys rather have them just leave it alone? "well, this version sucks. let's just quit." hell no!
My only question right now is, will the 2008+ STi hatch catbacks fit the 2009 WRX hatch since they have the same rear defuser and openings?
they did it as a save face since there were/are so few 08's sold compared to every other year of the WRX since it's release in 2001. oh, and it was intentional to piss you off since you drive a REX
Hmmm..... more power to compensate for that ubiquitous hatchback profile? This might be worth looking into down the road..... wonder how much the price will go up.....
I read some where an increase of about $1000 should be expected. I would like it if what you say happens.