2015 Subaru WRX STI: Same hp but how did it get faster? [video]

Subaru has introduced a completely redesigned 2015 WRX STI that has the same 305 hp but is faster than the outgoing model. How did they do it?

The 2015 Subaru WRX STI is all-new for the new-generation performance sedan and it gets faster while keeping the same horsepower. Subaru keeps the same 2.5-liter turbocharged Boxer engine with 305 horsepower and 290 lb ft of torque. But Subaru says the new STI is faster than the previous generation 2014 model. How did they do it?

Subaru WRX STI has been completely redesigned for 2015 on the outside with a new look that also is more aerodynamic. It starts on the front of the STI which comes with a sleeker design which makes it slip through the air more easily. It gets new smaller headlights which are an all-new LED headlight system. It also features a new grille with a larger aperture and a deeper front spoiler.

The aluminum hood is completely redesigned with a new hood scoop which is lower and wider than the outgoing model which allows more air to be forced into the intercooler for the turbo. The lower, wider hood also allows for a more aerodynamic sleeker look and contributes to better performance.

Subaru has completely redesigned every exterior body panel for the 2015 WRX STI. The hood, fenders, doors and quarters are all-new. All of the body panels on the new STI are new from the glass down with deeper sills on the side, and it features new aerodynamic panels underneath the car that keep the air flowing under the car. The windshield is more raked than before, with the A-pillar pulled forward nearly eight inches at the base for better forward visibility and it’s also more aerodynamic.

On the back of the car, we still see the prominent large wing that makes the STI stick out from other performance cars. Why does Subaru use the wing? Well it’s for much more than just garish looks. It has a very specific function on the STI. The wing produces a lot of downforce at high speeds and actually improves performance. Many buyers of the STI will take it to the track and race it on weekends. How much faster is the new 2015 STI?

Subaru has been able to increase the top speed of the 2015 STI by 3 mph over the outgoing 2014 performance model. The 2015 WRX STI now has top speed of 164 mph. On the back of the car, it also comes with a larger and wider valance at the bottom with quad tailpipes and the underbody panels at the rear give it a better Cd than before.

The 2015 Subaru WRX STI is all-new and gets all these exterior upgrades that make it faster than the 2014 model. It still comes with BBS wheels and Brembo brakes with the STI logo peaking out. Stay tuned to Torque News as we bring you what else is new on the 2015 STI.

Watch the video below as Dominick Infante, National Manager Product Communications Subaru of America, describes the all-new 2015 WRX STI.