UPDATE 3: Here is our First Drive story of the all-new Subaru WRX and WRX STI (4/9/2014).

UPDATE: We have now included the complete specs below (4/9/2014).

UPDATE: We have confirmed the prices for the all-new WRX and WRX STI. Details below (4/3/2014).

We’ve carefully followed the steady progress of the 2014 Subaru WRX and WRX STI and hope that it will arrive here sooner rather than later. Well, after a tease with the WRX Concept, Motor Image Pilipinas has launched the all-new Subaru WRX and WRX STI at their stand at the Manila International Auto Show (MIAS).

The all-new engine lowers the WRX even further resulting in even better handling. In fact, Subaru is calling the 2014 WRX the “best handling WRX ever”. Fighting words indeed. The WRX also debuts a brake vectoring control system that goes hand-in-hand with the trademark Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with a default torque split of 45/55 (front-rear). The all-new WRX features gunmetal 17-inch alloy wheels with 235/45R17 tires and a lip-type rear spoiler and quad tailpipes. It also has the signature LED hawkeye parklights and daytime running lights.

Inside, the WRX is fitted with a push-button engine start/stop, flat-bottomed steering wheel with audio buttons, leather sport seats with aggressive side bolsters and power adjustment for the driver, carbon fiber accents, one of the best instrument panels in the sub-2-million-peso price range and an enhanced multi-function display. The WRX also comes with a full-featured infotainment system with USB input, 6 speakers, and Bluetooth hands-free. Pricing is confirmed to be at P 1,888,000 according to sales representatives at MIAS, though final details will be revealed at the regional launch next week.



Meanwhile, while sharing the same EJ257 engine and 6-speed manual transmission from before, the all-new WRX STI gets some love with a completely re-tuned suspension for better response and tighter body control. The WRX STI features Active Torque Vectoring, Multi-Mode Vehicle Dynamics Control, and the Driver’s Control Center Differential or DCCD.

Like the outgoing WRX STI, the all-new model produces 305 horsepower and 393 Nm of torque, capable of a sub-five second 0-100 km/h time. In terms of equipment, the WRX STI gets 18-inch rims with 245/40R18 tires and quad tailpipes. As previously reported, the trademark gigantic rear wing is now an official accessory (though we honestly hope Motor Image Pilipinas will reconsider making this standard equipment).

Inside, the WRX STI also gets a push-button engine start/stop, Alcantara/leather sport seats with red detailing, carbon fiber accents, a unique instrument panel with enhanced multi-function display, moon roof, and a Harman/Kardon sound system. Despite the added features, the price for the all-new WRX STI is kept at par with the outgoing model at P 2,498,000. This seems to be a good move given the pricing of the WRX STI is precariously close already to the likes of the Lexus IS 350. Again, the final details will be revealed next week during the regional launch.



While we’re all waiting for the official word on the all-new Subaru WRX and WRX STI (and how it drives, finally), it’s good to know that you can see both cars in action at the Manila International Auto Show. World-renowned stunt driver Russ Swift is already celebrating the arrival of these two iconic rally-bred performance sedans by pummeling them every single MIAS day with three shows daily: 13:30 (1:30 PM), 15:30 (3:30 PM), and 17:30 (5:30 PM).

Aside from the all-new WRX and WRX STI, Motor Image Pilipinas is also showcasing the new Forester variant, the mid-priced 2.0i-Premium as well as the new 2.0i CVT Impreza.