2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

It's rare when two classically opposed models debut at the same time. The Subaru WRX STI hits the show floor at the same time as its archrival, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. That's like debuting the new Camaro alongside the new Mustang. The differences between the two, however, have never been more clear: The Subaru is a hatchback, while the Mitsubishi is a sedan.

Obviously there's a lot more to distinguish the two, but like the Evo the STI is a turbocharged-four-cylinder all-wheel-drive sports car. It puts out more horsepower — 305 versus the Evo's 291 — but has less torque, with 290 pounds-feet versus 300 pounds-feet in the Evo. Still, the STI should be an impressive ride.

The car's hood is made of aluminum, which lessens weight. The 2008 is 22 pounds heavier than the 2007 it replaces. There's an incline-start assist that prevents the car from rolling backward in the time it takes the foot to leave the brake and hit the gas. The brakes are large Brembo numbers.

The interior gets a nice upgrade, with comfortable sport seats with Alcantara — which is a suede-like material — seat inserts and door panels.

Along with the Evo, the STI delivers one more example of a sports car in an unconventional shape.
SOURCE: CARS