Will upgraded 2015 Subaru WRX STI appeal to a wider audience?

Will the new-generation 2015 Subaru WRX STI appeal to a wider audience without alienating their current loyal fans? Subaru didn’t drastically change the exterior styling, but where the biggest differences are coming, is in new chassis upgrades and in new refinements in the cabin. Will Subaru be able to broaden the appeal of the new-generation WRX STI to include new performance buyers who have never considered purchasing a Subaru vehicle before?

Before the unveiling of the 2015 WRX, Australia Subaru boss Nick Senior had a chance to drive the new 2015 WRX and was thoroughly impressed with the new changes. He said, "I've had the opportunity to drive it and I think it will not disappoint any of our existing customers."

Can Subaru keep loyal fans happy?

But the big question is, will Subaru be able to keep their current performance fan base happy with the new WRX STI? We do know that the new 2015 performance model will be lighter and more agile than the previous generation models. Subaru will likely make use of carbon fiber in the new roof to reduce overall vehicle weight. But the cabin will see the most significant upgrades to appeal to a wider audience. But this won’t alienate existing WRX STI enthusiasts.

Like the WRX, the new 2015 Subaru WRX STI will be coming with new high-tech upgrades and a new refined interior. The new cabin will be roomier and more comfortable before. This is where the appeal to a new audience will come from. It will come with new materials and a wide array of new user technologies.

More interior room

A big change is seen with its one-inch longer wheelbase over the previous-generation WRX STI. There will be more legroom for taller drivers. This should excite loyal fans too. The larger premium cabin gets higher seating hip points, lower side sills and wider-opening doors that make getting in and out easier. It also features two more inches of legroom for passengers in the back and trunk capacity is increased.

Like the 2015 WRX, the new-generation WRX STI will get upgrades inside like
a new flat-bottom, leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt/telescoping adjustments and integrated switches for audio and Bluetooth control. A harman/kardon premium audio system will be offered for the first time. It also will come with a new dual gauge instrument layout that features a 3.5-in. LCD central screen. It displays various functions, including oil and washer fluid levels, and selected gear ratio.

High-tech upgrades inside

WRX STI will also get a new multi-information central display with 4.3-in. LCD screen that provides a multitude of vehicle system functions. It includes a rear camera display, boost gauge display, audio, Bluetooth and climate control settings, and a VDC screen showing traction control operation. The new display can provide a vehicle self-check and maintenance reminder. It will also feature new whiplash-reducing high-grip fabric covered front sport seats, featuring all-new separate tilt- and height-adjustable head restraints.

A better performer on the road and track

And the new WRX STI above all will be a better performer on the road and on the track. It will get a new tuned suspension with quicker steering response for better handling in the corners. Subaru used the Porsche 911 as a benchmark for the new-generation model. It should carve the corners better than before with a 41 percent stiffer unibody which translates to a 20 percent reduction in body roll in the curves.

It looks like the all-new 2015 Subaru WRX STI will appeal to a wider audience with new high-tech upgrades and a new larger refined interior. And current WRX STI performance enthusiasts will be excited about the new performance upgrades. Subaru won’t do anything to alienate their loyal fans. When the new performance model is unveiled at NAIAS next month, it should be everything they expect and more.