Richard Hammond Loves The Turbo Lag In His 530-HP WRX STI

SHABAZ PASHA

It’s the same car he drove on The Grand Tour, albeit enhanced just a bit.

It has been a while since Clarkson, Hammond, and May explored the wintry north in their Scandi Flick Grand Tour special. Those who witnessed the escapade will recall Richard Hammond’s Subaru WRX STI in a shade of blue. For those not in the know, Hammond navigated the journey with a blue Subaru WRX STI. Quite surprising, isn’t it?

As it turns out, he developed a fondness for the vehicle. Hammond liked it to such an extent that he arranged for its transportation back to England post the filming process and proceeded to initiate a series of enhancements. The outcome is the automobile showcased in this fresh Drivetribe video, equipped with a firm suspension, gold wheels, and a turbocharged flat-four now generating an impressive 530 horsepower. This combination seems like a foolproof formula for enjoyment, and judging by Hammond’s expression at the steering wheel, we can affirm that the formula is indeed absolutely delightful.

We lack specific information about the enhancements, although at a certain moment, he inclines to toggle a switch in the Subie’s glove box. Evidently, this triggers a more assertive tune, encompassing an anti-lag system to assist in maintaining the turbo at optimum levels. Interestingly, he remarks that “turbo lag is the most fantastic invention” earlier in the video, but let’s face it, he’s just enjoying himself.

He also has quite a bit to share. On that note, here’s a possible drinking game for all the individuals out there. Each time Hammond mentions “utilitarian,” “personality,” or “analog” in this seven-minute Subaru review, well, you know what to do.

These are traits he attributes to his recently modified WRX, and we suspect Subaru enthusiasts (of which your author is one) can identify. In general terms, the WRX has consistently provided some degree of utilitarian functionality as an all-wheel-drive vehicle with room for five individuals and a few belongings. This generation, at least, is undeniably analog with its three-pedal manual gearbox and limited driver assists. And naturally, the WRX possesses personality. Well, we’re not entirely convinced about the current-generation model. But take a step back a few years to a modded STI, and you’ll discover personality in abundance.