Hi all. I have heard some conflicting opinions between friends in regards to what the 02-03 blob eye wrx sti type uk impreza can safely run on. Here is the argument:

Mr X: The WRX STI type UK has been made for uk fuel consumption and can therefore safely run on normal unleaded fuel.

Mr Y: No chance , the sti type uk must be run on higher ron fuel such as optimax, bp ultimate etc...otherwise there is a risk of damage to the car!

Mr X: Rubbish , there is no chance a uk subaru dealer is going to tell you that you cant put normal unleaded petrol in this car, as it might go pop! I admit there is a significant drop in performance, however the car is not in any danger!

Mr Y: Even tho the car is UK made it still requires you to feed it with fuel of 97ron and above, period!

......and on and on.

Can somebody clear this up for me.

Can a WRX STI type UK run safely on normal unleaded petrol??

Thanks

 

Yes it can run safely on normal unleaded (according to my dealer) but it runs and sounds like a bag of nails.

 

thanks for that mate!

 

My view:

The car will run on normal UL and this is supported by Subaru UK.

However, if you want to gain the maximum performance and care for the long term of your engine, I would use SUL or more ideally Optimax. This will provide additional protection in the long run due to the type of turbo engine and particularly if the car is driven hard. It will also provide a smoother better performing car as a whole if used regularly.

When I have spoken to various Subaru dealers in the past they have all 'advised' the use of SUL but have said it will run on normal UL.

 

What does the handbook say?

 

My filler door says 98ron (MY03 sti uk) which is higher than regular unleaded ( i think).
I only use Optimax as there is a station not too far away. Sometimes put Ultimate in it as well.
Nik.

 

Mine says the same, and it only drinks optimax regualr unleaded is 95ron