Let's dive into the details of the 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI. This car is a legend, known for its performance, handling, and rally-inspired spirit. If you're a car enthusiast, especially a fan of Subarus, you're probably already familiar with the iconic WRX STI. But let's get into the specifics of the 2012 model. We'll cover everything from its engine and performance figures to its handling characteristics and overall driving experience. Whether you're considering buying one, or simply want to learn more, this article has got you covered.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is its engine. The 2012 WRX STI is equipped with a 2.5-liter turbocharged Boxer engine. This engine is one of the most distinctive features of the WRX STI, contributing significantly to its unique character and performance capabilities. The Boxer engine configuration, where the cylinders are horizontally opposed, results in a lower center of gravity for the car. This, in turn, enhances the car's stability and handling, especially during cornering and high-speed maneuvers. The lower center of gravity allows for quicker and more precise responses to steering inputs, giving the driver greater control and confidence behind the wheel.

Turbocharging further enhances the engine's performance, providing a significant boost in both horsepower and torque. The turbocharger forces more air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power than a naturally aspirated engine of similar size. This results in exhilarating acceleration and impressive responsiveness across a wide range of engine speeds. The combination of the Boxer engine and turbocharging technology makes the 2012 WRX STI a formidable performer on both the street and the track.

Specifically, this engine delivers 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. These power figures are impressive and contribute to the car's thrilling driving experience. The 305 horsepower provides ample acceleration, allowing the WRX STI to reach high speeds quickly and confidently. Whether you're merging onto a highway, overtaking another vehicle, or simply enjoying a spirited drive on a winding road, the engine's power is always readily available. The 290 lb-ft of torque ensures strong pulling power from low engine speeds, making the car feel responsive and eager to accelerate in any gear. This torque-rich nature of the engine is particularly useful in everyday driving situations, where quick bursts of acceleration are often required.

With these numbers, the 2012 WRX STI can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.8 seconds. This acceleration time is a testament to the car's performance capabilities, placing it among the quickest vehicles in its class. The rapid acceleration is not only exhilarating but also adds to the car's overall sense of excitement and engagement. The driver feels a direct connection to the engine, as the car responds instantly to throttle inputs, delivering a surge of power that pins you back in your seat. The combination of the powerful engine, responsive turbocharging, and advanced drivetrain makes the 2012 WRX STI a true performance machine.

The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This is the only transmission option available, which caters to enthusiasts who prefer a more engaging driving experience. The six-speed manual transmission allows the driver to have full control over gear selection, enabling precise and deliberate shifts that maximize the engine's power output. The transmission is designed to be robust and durable, capable of handling the engine's high torque output without compromising reliability. The gear ratios are carefully chosen to optimize acceleration and fuel economy, providing a balanced driving experience that is both thrilling and efficient. The manual transmission adds a layer of involvement and connection between the driver and the car, making the 2012 WRX STI a truly rewarding vehicle to drive.

Handling and Drivetrain

The 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI doesn't just have a powerful engine; its handling is equally impressive. The car features Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system. This system is a cornerstone of Subaru's engineering philosophy, providing superior traction and stability in a wide range of driving conditions. The symmetrical design ensures that power is distributed evenly to all four wheels, maximizing grip and minimizing wheel spin. This results in enhanced acceleration, improved cornering ability, and increased confidence when driving on slippery surfaces such as snow, ice, or gravel. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system is a key factor in the WRX STI's legendary handling prowess, making it a formidable performer in any environment.

This system provides excellent grip and control, especially in challenging conditions. Whether you're navigating a winding mountain road or driving through a snowstorm, the all-wheel-drive system ensures that the car remains stable and predictable. The system constantly monitors wheel speed, throttle position, and other factors to optimize power distribution and maintain traction. This allows the driver to focus on the road ahead, without having to worry about losing control. The all-wheel-drive system works seamlessly with the car's other performance features, such as the suspension and steering, to deliver a cohesive and confidence-inspiring driving experience.

The WRX STI also has a sport-tuned suspension. The suspension system is specifically designed to provide a balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The system consists of carefully calibrated springs, dampers, and anti-roll bars that work together to minimize body roll and maintain stability during cornering. The sport-tuned suspension provides a firm and responsive ride, allowing the driver to feel connected to the road and providing precise feedback. The suspension also helps to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road surface, ensuring a comfortable and controlled driving experience. The combination of the sport-tuned suspension and the all-wheel-drive system makes the WRX STI a true joy to drive on twisty roads.

It also includes Subaru's Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD). This system allows the driver to adjust the torque distribution between the front and rear wheels. This adjustability allows the driver to fine-tune the car's handling characteristics to suit their personal preferences and driving style. For example, the driver can increase the amount of torque sent to the rear wheels for a more playful and tail-happy feel, or they can increase the amount of torque sent to the front wheels for increased stability and grip. The DCCD system is a valuable tool for experienced drivers who want to extract the maximum performance from their WRX STI. The system is easy to use and provides a noticeable difference in the car's handling behavior.

This advanced system lets the driver fine-tune the car's handling characteristics. Whether you prefer a more neutral balance or a rear-biased setup for drifting, the DCCD allows you to customize the driving experience to your liking. The system also includes an automatic mode, which adjusts the torque distribution based on driving conditions and driver inputs. This ensures that the car always has optimal traction and stability, regardless of the situation. The DCCD system is a unique and innovative feature that sets the WRX STI apart from its competitors.

Interior and Features

Inside, the 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI offers a sporty and functional environment. While not luxurious, it's designed with the driver in mind. The interior of the 2012 WRX STI is focused on providing a comfortable and supportive environment for spirited driving. The seats are designed to hold the driver and passengers securely in place during hard cornering, while the controls are logically laid out and easy to reach. The materials used in the interior are durable and functional, with a focus on providing a practical and reliable space for driving.

Sport seats provide good support during spirited driving. These seats are designed with aggressive bolstering to keep the driver and passengers firmly in place during cornering and other dynamic maneuvers. The seats are also adjustable to provide a comfortable driving position for a wide range of body types. The sport seats are a key element of the WRX STI's performance-oriented interior, providing the support and comfort needed for demanding driving situations.

The car also features standard amenities like air conditioning, a CD player, and power windows and locks. These features provide a basic level of comfort and convenience, making the car suitable for everyday use. While the WRX STI is primarily focused on performance, it also offers the essential amenities needed for daily driving. The air conditioning system ensures a comfortable cabin temperature, while the CD player and power windows and locks add a touch of convenience. These features make the WRX STI a practical and versatile vehicle that can be enjoyed both on the road and on the track.

Overall Driving Experience

The 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI offers a raw and engaging driving experience. It's a car that demands attention and rewards skilled drivers. The overall driving experience of the 2012 WRX STI is characterized by its directness, responsiveness, and visceral feel. The car provides a strong connection to the road, allowing the driver to feel every nuance of the surface and react accordingly. The steering is precise and communicative, providing excellent feedback and allowing the driver to place the car exactly where they want it on the road. The suspension is firm and controlled, minimizing body roll and maximizing grip. The combination of these factors creates a driving experience that is both thrilling and rewarding.

It's not the most refined or comfortable car, but it's incredibly fun to drive. The 2012 WRX STI is not a luxury car, and it does not prioritize comfort and refinement over performance. The car is designed to be a driver's car, and it is focused on providing a direct and engaging driving experience. The ride can be harsh at times, and the interior is not as luxurious as some of its competitors. However, these sacrifices are made in the name of performance, and the result is a car that is incredibly fun to drive. The 2012 WRX STI is a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.

If you're looking for a high-performance car with a strong rally heritage, the 2012 WRX STI is a great choice. This car has a rich history of success in rallying, and it embodies the spirit of competition and performance. The 2012 WRX STI is a car that is designed to be driven hard, and it rewards drivers who are willing to push it to its limits. If you're looking for a car that can handle both daily driving and weekend track days, the 2012 WRX STI is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

The 2012 Subaru Impreza WRX STI is a performance icon. With its powerful engine, advanced drivetrain, and sporty handling, it's a car that delivers an exhilarating driving experience. While it may not be the most luxurious or comfortable option, it's a true driver's car that's sure to impress enthusiasts. Whether you're a seasoned track driver or simply appreciate a fun and engaging ride, the 2012 WRX STI is worth considering. Its blend of performance, heritage, and unique character make it a standout in the world of sports cars.