Subaru Unleashes Impreza(R) WRX(R) STI(R) Limited for 2007 (CarzUnlimited)

                   - Less Show, Same Go
                     - Leather Interior, Power Moonroof
                   - Only 800 Numbered Units Available
Subaru of America, Inc. unveiled the
2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited model at the New York International Auto Show.
The new edition of the road-conquering Impreza WRX STI packages greater
comfort and refinement with subtler exterior styling, but does not
sacrifice the performance of this street legend.
    The WRX STI Limited will be available in the fall in a limited run of
800 numbered units, 400 in Satin White Pearl and 400 in Urban Gray
Metallic.
    The 2007 WRX STI Limited delivers all the power and performance of the
standard model. This new limited-edition version adds a layer of refinement
and design detail enhancements targeted at a new group of driving
enthusiasts looking for supercar performance but with an understated
demeanor. Designed by Subaru Tecnica International (STI), the
high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.,
the WRX STI Limited is descended from the Subaru WRC Rally car.
    "The WRX STI redefined the performance car category when it was
introduced in 2004. We know some enthusiasts have resisted the temptation
to buy one simply because they want more everyday driving comfort and
refinement, along with less aggressive styling," said Fred Adcock,
executive vice president, Subaru of America. "Now, with the STI^s
reputation for pure performance unquestioned, we recognized an opportunity
to broaden the car^s appeal."
    Less Show, Same Go
    The 2007 WRX STI Limited stands apart from the standard model with an
appearance that^s more low-key, and even stealthy. A new trunk-mounted lip
spoiler replaces the standard model^s large dual-plane rear spoiler, and
the black aluminum roof vane spoiler is deleted. A new, deep front lip
spoiler further distinguishes the WRX STI Limited from the standard model.
    New Enkei wheels with high-luster paint replace the BBS(R) wheels,
keeping the same 17 x 8-in. size and 225/45 ZR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070
directional performance tires. Behind the new wheels, black Brembo(R) brake
calipers with white lettering have a more reserved appearance than the gold
and red-painted calipers on the standard WRX STI.
    All WRX STI Limited models feature distinctive black gloss B-pillar
paint and high luster paint for the exterior mirrors, and this special
edition model includes standard fog lights.
    New Refined Interior Keeps the Focus on Performance
    The interior of the 2007 Impreza WRX STI Limited balances the
performance- directed design and attitude with a dose of refinement. Most
notably, the WRX STI Limited replaces the perforated blue high-grip
Alcantara(R) fabric seating surfaces with leather and new dark gray
metallic bezels and interior trim.
    For the first time in a WRX STI, the performance-design front seats are
heated for all-season comfort. Also enhancing all-season driving pleasure,
the 2007 WRX STI Limited features the first-ever power glass moonroof on
this model. Beyond the changed interior appearance, additional features
include new carpeting with improved sound insulation materials, an
auto-dimming compass rear view mirror and an audio system input jack for an
iPod or other digital music player. Finally, each car in this series gets a
sequential number plate.
    The standard automatic climate control system integrates cabin air
filtration. SIRIUS(TM) Satellite radio availability enhances the
versatility of the standard 120-watt AM/FM premium stereo, which includes a
6-disc in-dash CD changer and six speakers.
    Rally Tested and Road Ready
    All Impreza WRX STI models are powered by a turbocharged and
intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC Boxer engine producing 293 horsepower at 6,000
rpm and 290 lb.- ft. of peak torque at 4,400 rpm. The Subaru Active Valve
Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology helps provide strong
torque characteristics throughout the engine^s operating range. A manually
operated water spray feature helps to bolster intercooler efficiency during
spirited driving.
    All WRX STI models are exclusively equipped with a 6-speed manual
transmission that features carbon-plated double-cone synchronizers on 4th,
5th and 6th gears to help ensure durability.
    Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) All-Wheel Drive
    From its launch, the WRX STI has been equipped with one of the most
advanced and most performance-directed All-Wheel Drive systems on the
market, regardless of vehicle segment. The Driver Control Center
Differential (DCCD) Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system uses a
planetary-type center differential to provide a 41:59 torque split, with
automatic and manual differential modes.
    Center differential lock-up is controlled by both a mechanical
limited-slip type differential and an electronically controlled
limited-slip differential. The mechanical limited-slip differential
activates and operates initially in response to changes in engine torque,
improving overall vehicle stability when accelerating or decelerating. In
automatic mode, the electronic limited-slip differential controls the
differential lock-up by evaluating the amount of lock-up in the mechanical
limited-slip. The total amount of lock-up is based on the combination of
both differentials. A steering sensor input improves torque transfer
response by more accurately relaying the car^s cornering situation.
    Set in automatic mode, the DCCD system can vary the torque distribution
ratio as needed in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering
angle, cornering force and wheel slippage.
    In manual mode, DCCD allows the driver to select center differential
lock- up to optimize All-Wheel Drive performance for varying driving
conditions. The driver first selects manual mode with a console-mounted
button and then turns a thumbwheel on the center console to select from
among six levels of lock-up. Increasing the locking factor keeps more power
at the front wheels (max. 50:50 torque split with 100 percent lock-up
selected), which the driver might want in certain driving conditions or on
particular road surfaces.
    A helical-type limited-slip front differential and Torsen(R)
limited-slip rear differential help to optimize power distribution
side-to-side, helping to prevent the inside wheels from slipping during
cornering.
    Competition-Bred Chassis
    A super-stiff Ring Frame Reinforced body structure with a hydroformed
front subframe provides the foundation for the high-integrity Impreza
platform. Compared to the standard WRX models, the WRX STI models are
lowered by 0.4-inch to help lower the center of gravity.
    The 4-wheel independent suspension inherits its inverted-strut
technology from the Impreza WRC competition car. Aluminum front suspension
lower control arms and aluminum rear suspension lateral links reduce
unsprung vehicle weight. A quick-ratio steering system yields 2.6 turns
lock-to-lock, and the steering rack uses a "cannon mount" for greater
rigidity that improves on- center response.
    The powerful Brembo Performance Brake System employs front discs
measuring 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilizing
4-piston, fixed- position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in
diameter and 0.8-inch thick and use 2-piston, fixed-position calipers.
    A combination of Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the
Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to reduce stopping
distances and understeer compared to conventional ABS systems. EBD provides
precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based
on the vehicle load to improve stability and stopping distances. Super
Sport ABS, using input from a lateral-g sensor, can control the braking
forces at each rear wheel independently, optimizing the braking ability
during hard cornering to help reduce understeer.
    All Impreza, WRX and WRX STI models are equipped as standard with the
Subaru Advanced Frontal Air bag system and front seat head/chest side
impact air bags (SRS). The driver^s side air bag deploys according to the
driver^s proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the
seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects
weight on the passenger seat - first determining if it^s occupied, and if
so by a child or adult - to control air bag deployment.
    For additional information about Subaru of America, Inc. and Subaru
vehicles, visit the media website at http://www.media.subaru.com.
    About Subaru of America, Inc.
    Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy
Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company
markets and distributes All-Wheel Drive Subaru vehicles, parts and
accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United
States. Subaru is the only car company that offers Symmetrical All-Wheel
Drive as standard equipment on every vehicle in its product line.