2012 WRX STI – Japanese Excellence (Let Me Explain Why!)
In my eye the 2012 WRX and WRX STI has always been something special. The first car I ever owned was a 2011 Impreza RS with the WRX seats. I was so in love with this car and I remember how many enjoyable moments there were as I exploited the awd system of the under-powered variant of the car.
I had my heart set on the STI version when I was able to afford it, but it never happened, after driving multiple friend’s WRX’s and enjoying it thoroughly, I suddenly went down the European pathway and bought a VW Golf R. It was definitely an exciting car as well, but I always lust after the 2012 WRX STI, hatchback specifically.
That’s what these cars do, they inspire you to dream and regardless of how far you’ve come in life and how amazing your current car may be, a 2012 WRX will always be in the back of your mind lurking. It’s been 11 years now and I still want one, and one day I’ll make it a reality! Let’s get into what makes this car so memorable.
Commanding Looks
A car should look commanding on the road, the 2012 WRX version of the Subaru Impreza does just that. The 2012 Subaru WRX is a subjectively beautiful car. What we mean is that the car will be adored by a certain section of the population.
For some, the design may be too bold or trying too hard. The car looks distinctly different from the rather meek Subaru Impreza. Note that while the car carries the Impreza name, the WRX and the STI models are completely different.
The car looks big and wide. The fenders are wider than before and the low center of gravity gives it a typical rally car look. The front bumpers are huge for the car and contain a giant grille. Atop the bumper, the main grille itself looks quite good and sits flush with the sloping hood. The headlamps are angled and the air intake opening on the hood is a salient reminder that the car is all about performance.
Towards the back, the car’s roofline is sharp and melds well with the raised rear. The spoiler at the back coupled with the big bumper and quad exhausts are gorgeous to look at. The car looks aerodynamic like it is ready to pierce through the air at any moment. The 2012 Subaru WRX STI, which is a sedan version looks even sharper with a prolific rear end.
Performance Worthy Of The JDM Gods
The main selling point of the 2012 WRX and STI is the performance. The cars are simply too good on the roads. The competition cannot keep up and we reckon no cars a few thousand dollars more can keep up with the car either. Subaru has gone and outdone themselves with this car. They have taken all their expertise in rallying and engine making to produce one unbelievable car.
The engine inside the 2012 WRX is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder belter. The engine delivers a punchy 265 bhp and has a peak torque output of 244 lb-ft. The result is super-fast acceleration and the 2012 WRX 0-60 time is a scorching 5.3 seconds.
We don’t think a lot of mid-sized luxury sports sedans are capable of such times, scratch that, most sports cars don’t have such absurd 0-60 times. The car accelerates off the line without a hitch and no matter the weather condition, it is fast.
What is even more surprising is the fact that the 2012 Subaru WRX STI is faster. The engine has been souped up and you get better tuning along with a driver-controlled center differential (DCCD). As a result, you get a beefed-up engine capable of producing 305 bhp and 290 lb-ft of torque. The car is even quicker than the WRX.
The STI can do 0-60 in 4.9 seconds, which is unheard of. No car in this price range can top the WRX’s 0-60 time let alone come close to the STI’s speed. If performance is what you are looking for, this sedan has it in spades.
A Drive Unlike Any Other
The 2012 WRX is a great car to drive. For those that are enthusiasts of automatic shifters, you will be disappointed to learn that is not an option. You get a six-speed manual that does the job surprisingly well. The delightful part about having this car would be the exhaust note. The sounds coming out from the exhaust are grunty, throaty, and are something you would enjoy in a car.
The low rumbling is not something you get in cars at this price range. For those that love to roll the windows down and let the noises in, this car is meant for them. The notes are slightly different between each car. The 2012 WRX engine produces something a little rumblier and the STI’s noise is easier on the ears while retaining the grunt.
The 2012 WRX specs are jaw-dropping and the drive is equally great. For anyone that loves a long ride, putting their foot to the floor, throwing the car around corners, and letting the engine growl, the 2012 Subaru WRX is the car for them. The drive is eerily similar in both cars and is a little more on the understeer side for the WRX. Whether you choose a sedan or the 2012 WRX hatchback that is entirely down to convenience.
Interiors Worthy Of The Price Tag
The car has good space. You can fit in four adults with ease and five with a little squeeze. The legroom is maximized in the front.
The standard seating option is sporty and gives you the right amount of firmness and support. You can opt for RECARO seats on the STI and that lends the car an even sportier look.
The seats are soft and comfortable enough, nothing out of the blue for a car in this price range. There are upgrades available and if you want to maximize comfort and luxury, you should consider taking the plunge.
The 2012 WRX’s tech is on par with almost every other offering in the price bracket. You get automatic climate control, cd stereo with Bluetooth, and keyless entry.
Safety In Check
The 2012 WRX has a more rigid body and chassis. It is better equipped than the standard Impreza and despite having no rating from the NHTSA or the IIHS, we reckon it will be safer.
You get front and side airbags along with side curtain airbags, ABS, traction and electronic stability control, and a slew of brake assists. You also get all-wheel drive as standard and considering the power on tap, we think it is a necessary addition.
The Verdict
The 2012 WRX is a performance beast. The car takes off the line faster than most sports cars on the road and it certainly leaves its competition in the dust. The car looks the part too, with an intimidating front end and a mean rear.
The only drawbacks might be the interiors, which are just on par with the competition. Overall, for those looking for a car that excites and delights, the 2012 Subaru WRX STI is a clear winner, even though I may be slightly biased, it’s definitely something special.
