CARS

Sunday, November 11, 2007

The brakes continue to be the same big Brembos that are employed in the current car, operating behind 18-inch wheels (two styles of which will likely be available), the standard size for the U.S. model. Japanese cars wear Bridgestone tires, but U.S. rubber will be supplied by Dunlop (245/40-18). There are no specifics on the tires beyond that, although they will be performance tires, as distinct from all-season.

Consistent with Subaru’s aim of having the car appeal to a broader market, the new body shell not only is stiffer but also received considerable attention in the area of noise deadening. Interior materials are more upscale, and a nav system is available for the first time. It’s also a generally roomier car than the previous sedan body style, even though overall length has been reduced from 175.8 inches to 173.8. The 103.8-inch wheelbase is 3.9 inches longer, width increases 2.2 inches to 70.7, height is up 1.8 inches to 58.1, and the track—60.2 inches front and rear—is wider.

Making the car more civilized adds up at the curb. Subaru forecasts curb weight of the U.S. STI to be almost 3375 pounds, a little heavier than the last STI we tested [“Bad-Boy Sedans,” February 2005]. And increased sophistication will also add up on the window sticker. We expect a base price of about $34,500 when the STI goes on sale next April.

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