Subaru impreza WRX

The cabin of the 2011 Impreza WRX STI is what you would expect from Subaru. The materials are high quality and the fit and finish are very good. The majority of the faux-metal trim on the dash has been removed in favor of black plastic accents , which give it a much cleaner feel.

The 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX STI interior is finished in black and silver to highlight its sporty design which is also new for 2011. Also new are the trim panels, the steering wheel air bag cover, and steering wheel switches are dark cast metallic.

The front seats are designed for the sport-minded driver. They have high bolsters on the sides to keep you from sliding out when taking fast corners. And the STI badges on the headrests give it a race car feel. The interior of the STI is designed for more sport than for being comfortable on a long trip.

The tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather-wrapped design embossed with the STI logo and features control switches for Bluetooth hands-free phone function. The STI has been designed for the young buyer in mind with the latest technology.

A new AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player features Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, iPod control capability, a USB port, 3.5mm aux. input jack and XM/SIRIUS satellite radio is available with a subscription. An available navigation system integrates a vehicle information center and the aforementioned Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Despite the size of the Impreza, there's good headroom, front and rear and hip and shoulder room are decent. Rear-seat legroom will be tight for a larger adult if they will be sitting for longer trips. The rear seatback angles are reclined, and the rear doors open wide, 75 degrees, so ingress and egress is easy. Rear-view vision is adequate despite the big wing in the back.

Cargo capacity after the 60/40 rear seats are dropped is excellent for a car of the Impreza's size, although not nearly as spacious as a longer Subaru Legacy wagon. Because the sedan is 6.5 inches longer than the 5-Door, it has a large and deep trunk, big enough for three large golf bags.

Tomorrow we will take a look at the new technology in the drivetrain and see what upgrades have been made for the 2011 model.