What engine does the Subaru Impreza WRX STI use?
4 Answers
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI has used two engines in total: one is a 2.5-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, and the other is a 2.0-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine. The 2.5-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine delivers 300 horsepower and a maximum torque of 407 Nm, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The 2.0-liter turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine produces 265 horsepower and a maximum torque of 343 Nm, also paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is a high-performance model under the Subaru Impreza lineup, with body dimensions of 4460mm in length, 1775mm in width, and 1480mm in height.
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is equipped with a turbocharged horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, most commonly the EJ257 model with a 2.5-liter displacement. I've personally researched it—the engine design features a horizontally opposed layout, meaning the pistons move symmetrically left and right, effectively lowering the vehicle's center of gravity and enhancing handling stability. In terms of power output, the standard version delivers around 300 horsepower, paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. The all-wheel-drive system ensures rapid acceleration response, especially with exceptional grip on slippery surfaces. The engine internals include reinforced piston rings and crankshaft bearings for durability under high loads, but it's important to note that its head gasket was a common weak point—regular coolant changes and oil level checks are crucial. Enthusiasts who enjoy modifications can further enhance performance by upgrading the ECU, making it even more impressive on the track. Overall, this machine blends Subaru's rally heritage with everyday driving excitement.
I've been driving this car for several years, and what I love most is the engine sound—the deep roar as soon as it starts. The engine is a classic horizontally opposed four-cylinder with a turbo, commonly referred to as the EJ257, with a displacement of 2.5 liters. It delivers plenty of horsepower, easily reaching around 300 hp. It's sufficient for daily city commuting, but the power really shines on highways or uphill climbs. Fuel consumption isn't the lowest, averaging about 10 liters per 100 km. During maintenance, it's advisable to keep an eye on the oil and cooling system, as the turbo tends to heat up at high RPMs. Over long-term use, it's proven to be quite durable—as long as regular maintenance is done, major issues are rare. The all-wheel-drive system ensures stable cornering, and there's no worry about slipping in rain or snow. If you're looking to save money, carefully check the maintenance records when buying a used one to avoid vehicles with overheating issues.
Since the 1990s, the WRX STI's engine has continuously evolved, starting with the EJ20 and later upgraded to the EJ257, a horizontally opposed turbocharged four-cylinder engine. I've followed its history closely—that 2.5-liter powerhouse remained the core, delivering around 300 horsepower and inheriting the genes of Subaru's WRC race cars. The horizontally opposed layout lowers the center of gravity, paired with all-wheel drive, making it agile and stable on the road. Compared to the standard version, it features reinforced internal components for more reliable high-torque handling. While newer models might use updated engines, the EJ series remains a classic, worthy of nostalgia.
