Follow us today...
It’s called the VT15x and it will be officially unveiled at the New York International Auto Show on April 3. SRT USA is finally pulling the wraps off the 2015 Subaru WRX STI Global Rallycross car. It’s been in Vermont SportsCar’s shop for over a year getting new upgrades from the 2014 race car. This is SRT USA’s third GRC car and it’s coming just ahead of the 2015 Global Rallycross season that begins in May. Subaru says it’s ready to challenge for a title.
Vermont SportsCar gives STI GRC new upgrades
Vermont SportsCar runs the race program for Subaru Rally Team USA and runs the Rally America 2015 WRX STI and the STI Global Rallycross cars. Subaru says the new VT15x is coming with new updates and revisions that are widespread compared to the 2014 WRX STI version ran by SRT USA last year. Vermont SportsCar Team Principal Lance Smith says, “The VT15x is almost entirely new technology. This car is a revolution, not just an evolution.”
What’s new for 2015?
The key areas of focus for Vermont SportsCar on the new 2015 STI GRC were optimizing weight balance, center-of-gravity, suspension geometry, and aerodynamics. These were done to improve the handling on the combination dirt and asphalt tracks the GRC cars run on. They also increased engine power and response for quicker launches off the start which is critical in GRC racing. Smith went on to say, “The foundation of every great race car is the chassis you start with. Using the 2015 WRX STI, we have seen gains in handling and cornering in both our stage rally and rallycross cars; which is a testament to advancements in design from the factory.”
DON’T MISS: Is mystery Subaru hatch prototype the refreshed 2016 XV Crosstrek?
David Higgins was very impressed with the new 2015 WRX STI rally car build by the same team. Higgins said after their first win at Sno* Drift Rally, “The engineering and improvements that have gone into the new chassis are as evident on a rally stage as they are on the street. I think it’s a brilliant car and I can’t wait for the rest of the season!”
2015 STI GRC specs
SRT USA revealed the new car in Bucky Lasek’s new livery and the new STI GRC is powered by a 2.0-liter Subaru Boxer engine producing 580 horsepower, it’s coupled to a 6-speed SADEV sequential gearbox and power is sent to all four wheels through Subaru’s all-wheel drive system. Other features include a rallycross-spec widebody, and METHOD Race Wheels. The VT15x is capable of launching from 0-60 in just two seconds. SRT USA says the new car will meet GRC and FIA Rallycross homologation standards.
Subaru Motorsports Manager Rob Weir said SRT USA will not be satisfied with just getting to the podium in 2015. Weir commented, “Confidence is high within the Subaru camp that we have a winning package of driver talent driving faster cars for this season. Our goal in 2014 was getting to the front row of every final and being on the podium. This year, our only goal is winning.”
Subaru Rally Team USA will begin their 2015 rallycross season in the all-new 2015 Subaru WRX STI GRC car at Red Bull Global Rallycross May 31 in Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Stay tuned.
Follow us today...
