Subaru Forester STI: Spotted
Sub-zero conditions got you pining for practical all-wheel drive? Consider the Impreza's big booted cousin...
It's only natural to crave an all-wheel drive performance car when the worst of winter arrives. And, if you're reading these words, it's almost inevitable that you will have previously considered a Subaru. If that consideration has ever extended to a Forester STI, then congratulations, because it still ranks as one of the most lovable (we don't use that word lightly) and genuinely usable second-hand wagons out there. Not bad for a car never officially sold in the UK.
Its appeal goes well beyond the Haldex-equipped VW Groupies you might otherwise consider. Most importantly, it features Subaru's characterful 2.5-litre blown flat four under its snout. In JDM spec the engine is rated at a not insignificant 265hp, which is a fair amount of punch even by today's standards. It's tough too, with many cars that have been remapped to work better with British petrol said to reliably produce 70hp more than the factory output.
Which doesn't mean that you won't instantly be put off by the STI's looks, of course. You probably need to come at the Forester with a bit of love for Japanese throwbacks already in your heart. Only to the right eyes does the gaping bonnet intake and handlebar rear spoiler result in a superlative appearance - although for anyone not convinced, you only have to turn the key.
The way the Forester sounds, pulls and handles is classic Subaru. The boxer motor never catches instantly, instead requiring a couple of turns of the crank. But once spinning and up to temperature there's plenty of boost and accompanying burble to satisfy the senses. There's lag, true, but it only serves to emphasise the subsequent punch. And with proper four-wheel drive beneath, there's endless traction.
Subarus like this require a certain driving style to be best appreciated, with their tendency for initial understeer best countered by greedy uses of the accelerator through the bends. Do this, and you'll be sliding through slow corners like an Impreza owner. Admittedly, the Forester, even in most focused STI form, doesn't quite offer the athleticism of its flat-four cousin - but that's only because it's the more comfortable car to live with.
Prices for used Forester STIs have remained strong for all these reasons, although their comparative rarity (and large fan base) is obviously the kicker. While that has kept them from shed territory, good STIs seem to have settled at around £10,000 to £12,000 for some time now - PH's old fleet STI was bought for just under the former three years back. So there's always the fair chance you might get your money back after a couple of winters.
Today's Spotted fits the bill perfectly for such an opportunity. It's a 2005 model in fine condition, having covered a not hugely substantial 63,000 miles. There's full service history, including the original Japanese brochures, and a fresh MOT. Course, for those after a winter hack, it might just be too good. But those wanting proper Subaru all-wheel drive performance in its most practical setting, look no further.
SPECIFICATIONS - SUBARU FORESTER STI
Engine: 2,457cc, flat-four
Transmission: 6-speed manual, four-wheel drive
Power (hp): 265@5,600rpm
Torque (lb ft): 278@3,600rpm
MPG: 30ish
CO2: NA
First registered: 2005
Recorded mileage: 63,000
Price new: N/A
Yours for: £10,995
Fast subarus from this era have been going up in price. For years STI imprezas were worth more in parts than as a whole car, so loads got broken. Now, hopefully these lairy, noisy, uncouth, poorly equipped hooligan transport are starting to be appreciated as a really good drivers car.
I opted for it's slightly lesser brother, the Cross Sports. Similar looks, 2 litre engine and 220 bhp. Should be finally driving it next month.
SG9-113784_3_vga by Ross Davidson, on Flickr
I do like them a lot - quite fancy a Spec C or RA to be honest. And I drive a BMW. Which is far from bland.
Yes, the head gasket may go, but at 114k miles, anything comparable would have a similar gremlin lurking.
The 2.5 is nowhere near as problematic as the internet would lead you to believe, but that's a lengthy discussion point.
I'm a few weeks shy of having had mine for eight years and it's been a terrific car for that whole time. It may blow up tomorrow, but that doesn't change how good it's been.
All that said, the Cross Sports are good cars and don't command the same premium, so I'm sure you'll love it.
Yes, the head gasket may go, but at 114k miles, anything comparable would have a similar gremlin lurking.
The 2.5 is nowhere near as problematic as the internet would lead you to believe, but that's a lengthy discussion point.
I'm a few weeks shy of having had mine for eight years and it's been a terrific car for that whole time. It may blow up tomorrow, but that doesn't change how good it's been.
All that said, the Cross Sports are good cars and don't command the same premium, so I'm sure you'll love it.
6 speed Subaru's have an almost bulletproof gearbox, and provided you maintain it properly and are mechanically sympathetic, it will last you a long time. As a brand, Subaru are among the better ones, with a reputation for being quite rugged. Farmers don't buy them because they break down.
Full exhaust, decat and remapped to 275bhp, lowered on WRX suspension, 4 pot brakes, 17" wheels etc
It was discrete and fast (ish) but it was never fun
Fast, bumpy roads upset the ABS meaning it wouldn't apply the brakes, which was interesting.
Sliding around bends could be interesting too as you never knew where it was going to transfer the power
I don't miss mine.
I do like them a lot - quite fancy a Spec C or RA to be honest. And I drive a BMW. Which is far from bland.
I opted for it's slightly lesser brother, the Cross Sports. Similar looks, 2 litre engine and 220 bhp. Should be finally driving it next month.
SG9-113784_3_vga by Ross Davidson, on FlickrI opted for it's slightly lesser brother, the Cross Sports. Similar looks, 2 litre engine and 220 bhp. Should be finally driving it next month.
SG9-113784_3_vga by Ross Davidson, on FlickrGassing Station | General Gassing | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff