2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STi review By Scott Burgess

We all play favorites. Is that why we have elections? Or is it just for the commercials?

In the automotive world, car buyers play favorites as well — weighing the pros and cons of different attributes, looking for the best combination.

It may not have the boy-racer performance of the longest-named Subaru, the Impreza WRX STI, or the more polished looks of the Outback, or the unisex blandness of the Forrester, but somehow, the WRX finds the perfect balance.

This is the car Goldilocks would drive off in because it's just right.

There are a couple of things that Subaru does really well: first and foremost is its all-wheel drive system. Known as Symmetrical All Wheel Drive, the system splits power 50:50 between the front and rear axles. It can also push torque through the axle when it detects wheel slippage. This system, which is standard on all Subarus, gives it a handling and traction advantage over just about any other all-wheel drive system. In other words, it's just better.

Combined with the sports-tuned suspension and a track that's 1.5 inches wider for this model year, the WRX becomes an absolute thrill ride if you want to push it. The summer performance tires may help a little bit too. It sticks through corners, and it's one of those cars that in a big sweeping turn you find yourself pushing the accelerator, hoping to catch that high-pitched turbo singing once again.

See also:

Trailer hitches
Never drill the frame or under-body of your vehicle to install a commercial trailer hitch. If you do, dangerous exhaust gas, water or mud may enter the passenger compartment through the ...

Temperature control dial
Temperature control dial This dial is used to set the desired interior temperature. With the dial set to your desired temperature, the system automatically adjusts the temperature of air supplied fro ...

Audio control buttons (if equipped)
These buttons are located on the spokes of the steering wheel. They allow the driver to control audio functions without taking his/her hands off the steering wheel. ...