2015 Subaru WRX STI

2015 Subaru WRX STI

Episode 3336 , Episode 3349
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

The all-new Subaru WRX just rode home with our 2014 Drivers’ Choice Award for best sport sedan. It simply delivered lots of serious thrills for the money. But we knew that the WRX was just a tease until the next WRX STI arrived. Well, it’s here! So, with our hopes flying sky-high, let’s strap in, and see if the next hot Subaru can make our smiles even wider.

Going down the spec sheet, the 2015 Subaru WRX STI checks all the right boxes for purists: rally grade suspension…a six speed manual transmission…over 300 horsepower…check, check, AND check. Yet for a vehicle of the STI’s heritage, predicated on back-to-basics, old school fun, this latest model does benefit from some new-age technologies, despite changing little else from previous generations…

Returning is the BOXER horizontally opposed turbo flat 4; 2.5 liters worth, and rated at 305 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Indeed it is the same engine, and the same output, that the STI faithful already know. And it’s mated to the very same six speed manual transmission, as well. Slight improvements for 20-15 reduce vibrations, and make shifts smoother between low gears.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is naturally standard, as is the Driver Control Center Differential, which allows for mechanical and electronic control of the center diff through various settings. All this, combined with the helical limited–slip front diff, and the TORSEN limited-slip rear diff, basically translates to: GRIP. And lots of it.

New this year is Active Torque Vectoring, which works with the stability and traction control systems to apply a bit of braking while cornering. So what better place to experience all this, than at our test track?

Off the line power was easy to find, with a more manageable clutch than in our 2011 test. We just hooked up and flew to 60 in 4.7 seconds. Seven tenths quicker than the WRX. Then our STI punched through the full ¼ mile in 13.2 seconds at 104 miles per hour.

Where Subaru says they improved the STI the most is in handling. And indeed, through the cones it really comes alive. The added rigidly and a thoroughly retuned suspension, while a little more solid than before during commutes, really takes to tight switchbacks. The quickened steering ratio, now 13.0:1, adds precision and great feedback.

Getting to high speeds is easy in the STI, and luckily, so is slowing it down; taking a scant 108 feet from 60.        

As with the standard WRX, the STI distances itself from the Impreza sedan on which it is still technically based. Wheelbase is also stretched one inch over the last STI, to 104.3 inches, and the A pillars and windshield are significantly more raked, offering both a more swept look and better visibility.

But what’s an STI without the wing?! It’s here, in full force, to augment the WRX’s hood scoop up front, and quad exhaust in the back. Our Limited tester’s 18 inch BBS forged alloy wheels came wrapped in 245/40 summer performance tires. But our inner “Mr. T” wishes we could have the Launch Edition’s gold wheels, and its WR Blue Pearl paint, and we pity the fool who doesn’t grab one of the only 1,000 in production. But we digress…

Hop inside, and you’ll find things are also very similar to the standard WRX including racer red gauge accents, a 4.3 inch dash top screen, faux carbon fiber trim, and flat-bottom steering wheel that feels great. One plus, the improved “STI” embroidered seats do offer better grip, and we loved the STI-exclusive short throw shifter.

Government Fuel Economy ratings, are 17 City, 23 Highway, and 19 Combined. Even driving like we think owners will, our test loop of 23.4 on premium was better than expected.

Even better news is that STI base pricing starts at a reasonable $35,290. Limited trim goes for $39,290, with our test car adding a $1,500 NAV and Keyless Access option. It’s a little more “buck” over the WRX, but you do get a lot more “bang” for it.

Now it may seem to casual observers that the STI got left behind, as Subaru has been doling out the major overhauls everywhere else in their lineup. But while we always love something that’s “all-new”, there’s a certain charm to holding on to some of the “tried-and-true”. The STI has always been a showcase of exceptional performance with an accessible price; which is exactly why we love the 2015 Subaru WRX STI even more.

Specifications

  • Engine: 2.5 liters
  • Horsepower: 305
  • Torque: 290 lb-ft.
  • 0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds
  • 1/4 mile: 13.2 seconds @ 104 mph
  • EPA: 17 mpg city/ 23 mpg highway
2025 Nissan Kicks 18

2025 Nissan Kicks

More Kicks To Kick Around In

Episode 4436
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

Nissan began kicking around the idea of replacing their subcompact Juke with a much more modern crossover ute more than a decade ago. But it wasn’t until 2018 that the Kicks finally stepped onto our shores. Turned out it was a smart move, one that Nissan hopes to build upon with this all-new second generation kicks. So, let’s see if it kicks up more good things for Nissan.

SUVs, “small” utility vehicles in this case, remain the hottest wheels going, with carmakers putting a herculean effort into making them as appealing as possible to as wide of an audience as possible. That brings us to this 2025 Nissan Kicks.

What started out in 2018 as a more mainstream replacement for Nissan’s funky, entry-level ute Juke, has now evolved into a fine-looking SUV with impressive substance. While even the first Kicks looked way better than the Juke ever could, this one doubles down with some upscale Murano flavor, though the wide stance and exaggerated rear fenders do pay homage to the Juke. The unique patterns and textures around the lower body are designed to resemble high-end sneakers or “kicks”. Top SR makes the most of it with available 19-inch wheels, black accents, and full LED lighting.

2025 Nissan Kicks 11
2025 Nissan Kicks 7
2025 Nissan Kicks 10
2025 Nissan Kicks 8
2025 Nissan Kicks 9
2025 Nissan Kicks 2
2025 Nissan Kicks 6
2025 Nissan Kicks 5
2025 Nissan Kicks 4
2025 Nissan Kicks 3
2025 Nissan Kicks 112025 Nissan Kicks 72025 Nissan Kicks 102025 Nissan Kicks 82025 Nissan Kicks 92025 Nissan Kicks 22025 Nissan Kicks 62025 Nissan Kicks 52025 Nissan Kicks 42025 Nissan Kicks 3

This second gen is now bigger in every dimension, just under an inch taller, an inch and a half wider, and almost 3 inches longer; and even ground clearance gets a nice boost to a healthy 8.4 inches. There’s a new engine, too, staying naturally aspirated, but growing from 1.6 liters to 2.0 liters, and gaining 19 horsepower to 141. Torque gains are more impressive from 114 to 140 lb-ft. Bigger news is that all-wheel-drive is now available, as the original was front-drive only. And while we’re talking about that first gen, don’t get confused, as there is also a 2025 Nissan Kicks Play, which is actually a budget carryover of that first-gen Kicks.

Kicking off our track time, there’s a nice hit of initial spirit off the line, but then power delivery settles down and you take a slow CVT crawl down the track. It took us 10.7 seconds to hit 60 mph, a full second slower than the 2018 original. But it does seem to pick up the pace a bit further on, ending the quarter-mile at 18-flat and 78 mph. Engine noise is expectedly elevated, and even though there are simulated shifts happening in the CVT, it doesn’t really help the pace. Drive modes include Normal, Eco, Sport, and Snow, which comes only with all-wheel drive.

There was substantial grip and good balance, steering was light and it provided a respectable amount of feedback.

Now, it was a completely different experience on our handling course. Here, the Kicks kicked it up a nice notch for its class. There was substantial grip and good balance, steering was light and it provided a respectable amount of feedback. The suspension was firm and willing, with very little body roll and no notable understeer or oversteer. Overall, a quite pleasant cone trip.

All-wheel-drive models come with a suspension upgrade, replacing the rear’s simple twist beam setup with a multi-link arrangement, and adding a thicker stabilizer bar to the independent strut front. It was also quite commendable in braking with consistent, straight stops from 60 of only 106 feet.

2025 Nissan Kicks 17
2025 Nissan Kicks 16
2025 Nissan Kicks 12
2025 Nissan Kicks 13
2025 Nissan Kicks 14
2025 Nissan Kicks 15
2025 Nissan Kicks 172025 Nissan Kicks 162025 Nissan Kicks 122025 Nissan Kicks 132025 Nissan Kicks 142025 Nissan Kicks 15

Bigger dimensions allow for a nice upward movement in space inside the Kicks’ five-seat cabin. Plus, a tech upgrade has definitely taken place with all but base S trim getting wireless phone charging and a new 12.3-inch touchscreen. Top SR adds a 12.3-inch gauge display; and comes with a leather-wrapped steering wheel, simulated-leather trimmed seats, and surround-view camera. Nissan spreads the supportive Zero Gravity seats to both rows, so even back seat dwellers get well above average comfort for this price point. AWD hardware and suspension does necessitate a higher cargo floor and a bit less cargo capacity, 23.9 cu.-ft. instead of 29.2; max is 50.1 with seatbacks folded.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings with all-wheel-drive are 27 city, 34 highway, and 30 combined. Our average was right on at 30.4 mpg of regular. While the new Kicks is certainly better to look at, it remains exceptionally affordable, beginning at $23,220; top SR starts at $27,570. All-wheel drive is available with all trims for $1,500.

The original Nissan Kicks existed almost totally as a value leader. And while the value proposition of the 2025 Nissan Kicks remains very high, it has upped its own ante to be a far more interesting and appealing small SUV to see, to drive, and to be driven in. We think Nissan put this one straight through the uprights!

Specifications

As Tested

  • Engine: NA 2.0-liter I-4
  • Transmission: CVT
  • Horsepower: 141
  • Torque: 140 lb-ft.
  • EPA: 27 City | 34 Highway | 30 Combined
  • 0-60 mph: 10.7 seconds
  • 1/4 Mile: 18.0 seconds at 78 mph
  • Braking, 60-0 (avg.): 106 feet
  • MW Fuel Economy: 30.4 mpg
2025 BMW M5 29

2025 BMW M5

M5 Puts on Weight And Plugs Into A Whole New Level Of Performance

Episode 4435
Auto Value and Bumper to BumperTire Rack "The Way Tire Buying Should Be"

BMW has been powering the very definition of what it means to be a sport sedan for decades, with the M5 constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible in a luxury-minded midsize four-door. Well these days, most boundary pushing involves electrification. So, time for us to plug into a new level of performance from BMW!

Don’t worry, the M5 has not gone all-electric. There’s still a powerful gas-burning V8 cranking away under the hood; but for the 2025 version of the M5, BMW somehow managed to shove an entire EV’s worth of performance right alongside it.

The Competition version of the last M5 made 617 horsepower with a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8. That free-revving 4.4-liter makes a return here, although now it’s working with “just” 577 horsepower. But by integrating a 145-kW electric motor into the M5’s eight-speed M Steptronic transmission there’s now a total output of 717 horsepower, exactly 100 more, with a 738 lb-ft. sledgehammer of torque, all of it arriving with EV-like immediacy. Throw in a 14.8-kWh battery, which is big enough for delivering 27 miles of EV driving, and standard all-wheel drive, and there’s a significant weight penalty to pay here, something we don’t always like in our sport sedans.

2025 BMW M5 11
2025 BMW M5 10
2025 BMW M5 12
2025 BMW M5 2
2025 BMW M5 9
2025 BMW M5 8
2025 BMW M5 7
2025 BMW M5 6
2025 BMW M5 3
2025 BMW M5 4
2025 BMW M5 5
2025 BMW M5 13
2025 BMW M5 14
2025 BMW M5 112025 BMW M5 102025 BMW M5 122025 BMW M5 22025 BMW M5 92025 BMW M5 82025 BMW M5 72025 BMW M5 62025 BMW M5 32025 BMW M5 42025 BMW M5 52025 BMW M5 132025 BMW M5 14

But there’s more than enough power to make it disappear, as “get you in trouble” speed arrives almost immediately, yet the M5 feels so smooth you really have to closely pay attention to the speedometer. And at our Mason Dixon track it was sheer brutality, with the most insane launches we’ve ever experienced in a BMW.

Launch control was easy to engage and worked flawlessly run after run, unleashing a full onslaught of power to all four wheels that had them all struggling for grip. It was a real handful trying to keep it pointed in a straight line for the first 50 feet or so, but just as quickly it seemed to lock its radar on the track’s finish line and did all it could to get there as fast as inhumanly possible. We could feel heavy bolts of EV-style propulsion off the line, with increasing amounts of engine power taking over as we got moving, hitting 60 in 3.1 seconds and clearing the quarter-mile in 11.1 seconds at 129 mph. Shifts in the eight-speed automatic were fast and hard with no interruption in power delivery, as this 5,400-lbs. beast streaked down the track.

With the most insane launches we’ve ever experienced in a BMW.

We won’t go so far as to say that weight disappears in handling situations, you know it’s there; but instead of holding you back, it just seems to effectively push the tires into the pavement that much more, creating so much grip that we could carry very fast speeds through our cone course without any drama at all, and the M5 not really even breaking a sweat. They still haven’t been able to engineer much steering feel back into the equation, but making this wide-bodied monster feel like a nimble sport sedan was probably a much more impressive engineering feat. Strong initial bite, firm pedal feel, no fade; all make for great brakes, and a good average stopping distance of 115 feet from 60. That was with the standard M Compound brake setup behind 20- and 21-inch wheels, carbon discs are an option.

2025 BMW M5 27
2025 BMW M5 20
2025 BMW M5 16
2025 BMW M5 15
2025 BMW M5 1
2025 BMW M5 17
2025 BMW M5 24
2025 BMW M5 23
2025 BMW M5 28
2025 BMW M5 22
2025 BMW M5 25
2025 BMW M5 26
2025 BMW M5 18
2025 BMW M5 19
2025 BMW M5 272025 BMW M5 202025 BMW M5 162025 BMW M5 152025 BMW M5 12025 BMW M5 172025 BMW M5 242025 BMW M5 232025 BMW M5 282025 BMW M5 222025 BMW M5 252025 BMW M5 262025 BMW M5 182025 BMW M5 19

BMW insists on getting quirkier with exterior design, maintaining traditions like their twin kidney grille, yet incorporating LED lighting into it. The low, wide stance along with all of the added carbon fiber for the rear spoiler, side mirrors, and even roof, definitely portray a serious nature.

Plenty of luxury inside, yet with carbon fiber everywhere, and M logos and M buttons that seem to be calling you to a different mission. The overwhelming amount of ambient lighting can be a bit much.

Government Fuel Economy Ratings are 50 Combined for MPGe, 14 Combined with strictly gas. We obviously spent more time hammering around than plugging in as we averaged just 13.9 mpg of Premium. M5 Sedan pricing starts at $123,275.

The BMW M5 has been powering our high-performance dreams for 40 years. And over these seven generations, BMW has continued to slowly turn up the heat on the boiling pot of technology, introducing more and more of it, kinda hoping that no one will notice. It’s hard to argue with their process as it has made for some truly remarkable sport sedans. But there’s no missing the electric propulsion here, and there’s also no denying that BMW has created yet another splendid sport sedan, and another fantastic M5.

Specifications

As Tested

  • Engine: 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8
  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic
  • Horsepower: 717
  • Torque: 738 lb-ft.
  • EPA (Combined): 50 MPGe | 14 MPG
  • 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds
  • 1/4 Mile: 11.1 seconds at 129 mph
  • Braking, 60-0 (avg.): 115 feet
  • MW Fuel Economy: 13.9 MPG (Premium)