Nova Zhang
The Subaru WRX STI is known for its distinctive engine sound, which has a rumbling quality that sets it apart from other vehicles on the road. This sound is created by the unique design of the engine and exhaust system, including the use of unequal length headers. While some car manufacturers have introduced fake engine sounds in their electric vehicles, there is conflicting information about whether the STI's engine sound is enhanced or not. Some sources suggest that the STI has a sound tube that routes engine noises into the cabin, while others claim that the STI does not have fake engine noises.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Engine Sound | Distinctive rumble |
| Engine Type | 2.5-liter "boxer" flat-4 engine |
| Engine Design | Horizontally-opposed flat design |
| Header Piping | Unequal length |
| Exhaust Sound | Unevenly spaced |
| Sound Tube | Present in some models |
| Electric Model | May have artificial sound |
| Fan Preference | Against fake engine sound |
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What You'll Learn
The Subaru WRX STI's distinctive rumble
The rumble is such a significant part of the STI's character that some owners are concerned about the potential loss of this iconic sound as the company moves towards hybrid and electric models. Subaru and Subaru Tecnica International are reportedly working on ways to retain the Subaru rumble in future plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions of the WRX STI.
While there is no official word from Subaru on artificial sound for the WRX STI, other automakers like BMW are also facing similar challenges with their electric vehicles. BMW's head of powertrain concepts, Andres Wilde, confirmed that they are working on creating a high-performance sound for their electric cars.
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Electric vehicles and fake engine sounds
Electric vehicles (EVs) are known for their quietness compared to traditional gas-powered cars. However, some EV manufacturers have started adding fake engine noises, aiming to enhance the driving experience or replicate the sound of a traditional engine. This trend has sparked mixed reactions among drivers and the public. While some find it exciting, others view it as unnecessary and even ridiculous.
The addition of fake engine sounds in EVs is a relatively recent development. Carmakers like Dodge, Ford, Hyundai, and Mercedes-Benz have implemented this feature in various models. For instance, the Mustang Mach-E produces different sounds depending on the drive mode, while the Dodge Hornet R/T uses specific speakers to make the noise seem like it's coming from a certain direction. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N also gained attention for its fake engine noises, attempting to mimic the sound of a rally car.
The motivation behind adding fake engine sounds to EVs is multifaceted. Some manufacturers aim to cater to drivers' preferences for certain sounds, such as the popular rumble associated with Subaru WRX STI and boxer engines. There is a concern that transitioning to quieter EVs could result in a loss of brand loyalty. Additionally, companies like Harley-Davidson want to retain the signature sounds of their vehicles, even as they transition to electric power.
However, the addition of fake engine sounds in EVs has also faced criticism. Some people argue that these sounds are unnecessary and detract from the benefits of a quiet EV experience. There is a sense of absurdity in hearing engine noises from a different era in modern, futuristic vehicles. Critics also question the authenticity of the driving experience when artificial sounds are involved.
It's worth noting that some fake engine noises in EVs are intended for external safety purposes rather than the driver's experience. Due to the quiet nature of EVs, there has been a growing concern for the safety of pedestrians, especially those who are visually impaired. As a result, regulations have been implemented in some places, requiring EVs to emit safety noises when travelling below certain speeds to alert pedestrians of their presence.
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Sound tubes and sound symposers
The Subaru WRX STI is known for its popular rumble sound, which is emitted from its boxer engine. While there are no fake engine noises in the WRX, the STI variant features a sound tube that routes engine noises into the cabin. This sound tube, or sound symposer, enhances the engine sound for the driver, creating a unique and pleasurable aural experience.
Sound symposers are systems used by automakers to make modern, efficient, and noise-isolated engines sound more like their gas-guzzling predecessors. These systems amplify vibrations from the air intake chamber and transmit them to the interior via a hidden tube, creating an "acoustic channel." Porsche, for example, uses this method to ensure drivers experience the full effect of rising rpms.
BMW takes a more technological approach with its Active Sound Design. In the M5, the stereo and engine management computer are linked, so when the car accelerates, the speakers play a simulated engine noise matching the current rpm and speed. Lexus collaborated with Yamaha to create the 10-cylinder engine for the LFA, focusing on the aural experience for the driver.
Automakers recognize the importance of sound in sports cars and are developing innovative ways to enhance the driving experience through sound symposer systems. While some may view fake engine noises as worse than no exhaust note at all, these systems aim to strike a balance between modern efficiency and the traditional sounds car enthusiasts know and love.
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Fake engine sounds in Sport mode
The Subaru WRX STI is known for its boxer engine, which emits a popular rumble sound from the exhaust system. However, there is no confirmation that the engine sound in the Sport mode is fake. In fact, some Subaru enthusiasts claim that the car's engine sound is a crucial aspect of the driving experience.
That being said, some car manufacturers have been known to enhance or fake engine sounds in their vehicles. For example, BMW has implemented Active Sound Design (ASD) in some of their models, including the 330i G20, to make the car sound more powerful than it actually is. Similarly, the 2020 BMW M235i Gran Coupe has been reported to have a faked engine sound, created through a cleverly designed grille.
Other car models that have been accused of having fake engine sounds include the 11th Gen Honda Civic Si, where the sound is pumped through the front driver and passenger door speakers, causing distortion and potentially damaging the speakers. In this case, switching to Individual Mode allows drivers to disable the fake engine sound while keeping other Sport mode settings.
The Cadillac CTS and ATS Coupe models have also been mentioned in the same context, with these cars amplifying the vehicle's engine and exhaust sounds through their audio systems, a feature called Engine Sound Enhancement (ESE).
While some drivers appreciate the enhanced sound, others find it annoying and prefer the natural engine noise. Some even go as far as to modify their vehicles to disable the fake engine sounds.
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The future of the Subaru rumble
The Subaru WRX STI is known for its distinctive rumbling engine sound, which has become a signature of the vehicle. This sound is created by the 2.5-liter "boxer" flat-4 engine, which uses unequal length headers, resulting in exhaust gases exiting the car in an uneven pattern and producing a unique, rumbling sound.
However, with the automotive industry's shift towards electrification and hybridization, the future of the Subaru rumble is uncertain. Subaru is expected to release a hybrid or all-electric version of the WRX STI, which may feature a smaller boxer engine or an electric motor. This raises the question of whether the iconic rumble will be retained or become a thing of the past.
Some Subaru fans worry that the transition to alternative powertrains could result in the loss of the beloved rumble. The electric vehicles are notoriously quiet, and while some automakers like BMW and Harley-Davidson are working on artificial sounds for their electric vehicles, it is unclear if Subaru will take a similar approach. There has been no official word from Subaru on whether they plan to incorporate artificial sound technology into their future models.
While the future of the Subaru rumble remains uncertain, it is clear that the company recognizes the importance of this signature sound to its fanbase. Subaru and Subaru Tecnica International are likely aware of the potential risk of losing a generation of WRX STI enthusiasts if the iconic rumble is lost. As such, they are presumably exploring ways to preserve or recreate the sound in their upcoming hybrid and electric models, ensuring that the Subaru rumble continues to resonate with drivers and fans alike.
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Frequently asked questions
No, the STI does not have fake engine sounds. However, it has a sound tube that routes the noises into the cabin.
Many people replace the intake on the STI to change the noise of the engine. The stock intake is fine from a performance perspective, but the sound tube reduces the noise of the intake and turbo spool.
The distinctive noise of a Subaru is a rumble created by the 2.5-liter "boxer" flat-4 engine with a horizontally-opposed flat design and unequal length headers.
