Linus27

Hello,

I'm looking to buy my next Subaru WRX STI and I have the choice of a 2012 saloon or a 2014 model (current shape). Is it worth paying the little bit more for the newer model? I know the newer model is a lot stiffer, has a faster steering rack and shorter gearing but generally, is the newer model much of an improvement and worth the little bit extra? Both are blue and nice looking cars so its just if one is much better than the other.

Many thanks in advance.

Don Clark

To be pedantic the current shape, although it arrived in 2014 is actually the Model Year 2015 (MY15 for short) the 2012 saloon could be either the MY12 or MY13 Subaru UK didn't import the MY14.

Shorter gearing? - not in UK/European cars.

Both boxes have same gear ratios, front diff ratio and rear diff ratio, but the earlier saloon has 1.100 ratio drop gears,(effective diff ratios 3.545/3.545), the "current cars" have 1.103 ratio drop gears( effective diff ratios 3.536/3.545)
This probably compliments the faster steering rack.

Is it an improvement? possibly depending upon what you are after. The newer model has a few more upto date toys in the cabin, (mostly to meet the regulations) but the engine, drivetrain and transmission are basically the same and with the same stumbling block - the 2.5L engine.
Prone to lifting the heads and piston ringland failure due to the ever decreasing tolerances needed to meet European emissions - Hence the EJ20/25 series engines ceased production at the end of 2019 and MY18 was the "last edition" in UK/Europe.

Don Clark

Something that I originally missed - you mention both are blue.
The 2012 will be F9T - Plasma Blue


and the 2014 K7X - WRX Blue

Nelzsti

How does the 2015 feel to drive compared to the older variants? is it as involving or has it gone soft and heavy? would be my question. Gizmos i can live with out

Danjo

I've owned 6 previous STI's (classic, newage and hatch) and have had my 2015 for just under two years now. Engine and drivetrain is the same as has already been stated but chassis and suspension is a BIG step up in my opinion. The chassis is far stiffer and the suspension has been vastly improved. It's barely heavier than the hatch and doesn't really feel any heavier to me than my old hawkeye.. It feels a bigger car than the hatch, but actually a lot more involving and capable to drive.

JG483

I've had a 2010 Plasma Blue and now a 2016 Grey and have to agree with Danjo's comments. The chassis feels way stiffer and racier. Suspension quality and setup is more confidence inspiring than the 2010 leading to more smiles all round when pushing it. Cabin and toys are better too

Danjo

Plus I think they look a bit better than the older shape, but I am biased lol

Beastie

iTrader: (2)

The 2011 onwards STi saloon has Spec C based suspension, electro hydraulic power steering and Recaro seats.

When trying the 2015 saloon I noticed heavier steering ( hydraulic only), seats not so sporty but better for all shapes and sizes, car is longer, boot is flat unlike 2011 saloon. Boost gauge standard as well as tyre monitoring etc.

Driving experience was similar, 2015 a bit more refined.

I felt my 2013 saloon was more related in spirit and development to the previous models. I also have the 340R power upgrade.

if something happened to mine I would definitely be looking for a newer model as these cars do deteriorate with age. A car under warranty is also desirable, although none of mine have ever gone wrong.

Charlie boy 2

I had a 65 plate for 4 years coming from blobeye STI and it feels a bigger car, much better made. Feels solid on the road, not as tiresome to drive with the clutch and steering but still heavy certainly the steering compared to modern cars. I felt it had excellent driving position/view, roomy inside with plenty of space. Didn’t have a single issue with the car, aside from a new battery.

Stereo is crap, can be noisy on motorways and drowns out the music with the road noise, sometimes if felt you had to shout to speak to others but perhaps that might have been the stock Dunlop tyres the cause but never had to use others.

You don’t see many of them on the road now.

Just watch out for the higher tax band, it’s a killer at over £550 a year.

Beastie

iTrader: (2)

Certainly if I upgraded to the new shape I’d be looking for one with the 140£ road tax. 17 plate I believe.