[wdb]

What are the differences between the 2005 and 2006 STi? Finally we have official details of the US version of the 2006 STi. So I thought it was time to assemble a list of the changes over the previous year's model, just as I did for the 2004 - 2005 model year.

There are many preliminary reports of the '06 STi having a noticeably smoother, quieter ride than the earlier models. Although nothing specific has been found to support these claims, some of them come from people who have owned '04 or '05 cars and traded them for the '06 -- so there is good reason to give them some credence.

My list follows, collected from a variety of sources. I certainly don't claim that the list is complete. Any and all input is welcome, from nitpicks about how the list is laid out to technical foo such as DCCD differential internals. I'll revise the list as we go.

Engine/Suspension/Drivetrain

• Liquid filled engine mounts to dampen engine vibrations (earlier 2006 models only; high incidence of breakage caused Subaru to return to steel/rubber mounts midway through 2006 model year)
• Addition of a steering sensor input to the DCCD All-Wheel Drive system enhances power distribution response by more accurately relaying the car’s cornering situation.
• Addition of new mechanical limited slip differential to the DCCD. Enhances torque transfer and overall performance of the AWD system.
• Default torque split is now 41:59 front/rear (was 35:65 F/R)
• Carbon-plated synchronizers on 4th, 5th and 6th gears
• Optional Performance Exhaust System - Cat-Back (SPT)

Exterior

• Restyled to reflect new brand identity; Subaru signature front-end design for Impreza features a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company’s aircraft heritage, plus boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses
• New tail lamp cluster design
• Roof vane spoiler
• New rear underbody diffuser
• New side sill spoiler design
• Lower-profile hood scoop from the standard WRX
• Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
• Revised exterior badging, especially on trunk lid
• New Steel Gray Metallic paint color
• Gone: Pearl Silver Metallic paint color
• 2 inch increase in overall length, to 175.8" (from 173.8")

Interior

• Carpeted floormats standard
• Mesh pockets on back of front seats
• Redesigned HID headlight leveling control
• Dual stage front airbags
• Optional Momo shift knob
• Optional subwoofer (was not an 'official' option before '06)
• Optional Security System Shock Sensor
• Optional Ash Tray (fits in cupholder)

Stuff that IS NOT THERE (but should be?)

• Heated front seats
• Rear seat passthrough/armrest

Links to More Information

• IWSTI.COM thread featuring detailed shots of new features
• IWSTI.COM thread with official specs and links
• SoA information, specs, and pictures - main page
• "A completely unofficial 2006 Impreza WRX and STi research page"

Cheers,
-wdb

[SubaruFlamingo]

Can someone confirm whether the USDM model gets heated seats? That would make the 05/06 decision a little easier for me... mirrors arent as important but a heated strip under the wipers to de-ice them would be very nice, as it was a huge problem on our 98 Outback and works very well on our 05 Legacy GT.

[Nivek]

I was told heated seats were coming...

[SubaruFlamingo]

Told by who? And why wouldnt have SoA put that in their huge write-up on their website about every tiny thing new for the 06 STi? Youddathunk they'd definetly touch on that. I dunno though, I think my hate for the 2nd wing of the '06 would be neutralized by the heated seats factor...gonna have to wait for car rag road tests I guess...

Im surprised there isnt a heated seats thread yet, with everyone complaining how "this is a rally car, go buy an audi TT if you want heated seats that must weigh a whole 2 pounds and add $150 to the price! The STi is a bear bones sports car, I mean, heated seats now, whats next, a 6-CD in dash changer and subwoofer will be available? and well, I live in california/florida and dont know what its like to get in a car when its -10 degrees in michigan and freeze my *** off." Yeah.. you guys can see where I stand on that. :P

[wdb]

Originally Posted by Nivek

I was told heated seats were coming...

I hope so, and I really hope they don't cheap out and just do the seats.

Thanks for making this a sticky. I'll do my best to keep it accurate and up to date.

Cheers!

[2005STI]

I got heated seats in my 05

[esemes]

sign

me

up.

[Dominant Negative]

I bought an '06 a few weeks ago and I can confirm that it does NOT have heated seats or the rear seat pass through. Neither are options either - at least in the USA.

[wdb]

Originally Posted by Dominant Negative

I bought an '06 a few weeks ago and I can confirm that it does NOT have heated seats or the rear seat pass through. Neither are options either - at least in the USA.

Thanks for the information. Changes made accordingly.

Do you have any documents with your car that mention the F/R torque split for the DCCD? There are rumors that it is now 41:59 (was 35:65 before) but I don't have firm proof of it. The SoA docs I've seen actually mention both!

[2fas4u]

Originally Posted by Dominant Negative

I bought an '06 a few weeks ago and I can confirm that it does NOT have heated seats or the rear seat pass through. Neither are options either - at least in the USA.

Heated seats? Umm why? These are rally cars not Lexus's?? Sheesh...