Moving out to Arizona and will be traveling on alot of dirt back roads. Is there a major difference in off-road performance, other then speed, between the WRX and the STI? Thanks, TJ

The WRX will be more comfortable as it will have slightly softer suspension.

If you're going to be going off road, why not consider the Legacy 2.5 XT

Because I REALLY like the look of the WRX and I plan to use all of it's performance. I was told that the STI's suspension is beefier and made for the rigors of off road use, yes?
TJ

NO. The STI's suspension is made for high performance on road driving.

Where did your info come from?

I read it in one of the mags, C&D, Motor Trend...? one of them. They said that because of the added strenght, they would be able to perform better on the gravel....

In theory the WRX's higher suspension and slightly softer spring rate is ideal for off roading, while like freakray said the STi although percieved as a rally car, the US version is more tuned for like tarmac hillclimbs, or autocross.