Subaru Impreza
Encyclopedia
Introduced in November 1993, the Impreza was offered in either front-wheel drive
(FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions and as a four-door sedan/saloon or five-door station wagon
/estate. According to a Motor Trend
article written March 1992 on page 26, the name of Subaru's new compact was, initially, to be called the Loyale
, displaying an official photograph of the 4-door sedan. In late 1995, a two-door coupe
was introduced. The Impreza, like many Subaru-built cars, was equipped with a flat engine
, a distinguishing Subaru characteristic. Initial engine choices included 1.6 L, 1.8 L and 2.0 L naturally aspirated engines as well as the turbocharged
and intercooled
2.0 L engine. The basic turbocharged motor, the EJ20, produced from 179 kW to 210 kW in Japanese market WRX
trim depending on model and year. Outside Japan, the turbocharged model was initially rated at 155 kW and marketed as the 2.0 Turbo, 2.0 GT, 2.0 GT Turbo, 2.0 WRX, or Turbo 2000 AWD in the United Kingdom.
Trim levels were LX, GL and Sport. LX models were front-wheel drive, and powered by a 1.6 L engine; these were four-door only.
GL trim levels were either front-wheel drive (Subaru badged these 2WD) or all-wheel-drive (badged AWD); cars launched in 1993 had a choice of 1.6 and 1.8 flat-4
engines, the 1.6 being available with 2WD, the 1.8 an AWD version only. From 1996, the 1.6 and 1.8 versions were dropped (in the European market), and replaced by a 2.0 L engine. Sport versions had alloy wheels, and a 2.0 L engine only. These were "warm hatch" versions which were similar to the WRX, albeit less adorned.
In 1994, Subaru introduced Subaru Technica International (STi) versions of the Impreza WRX in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). These models were upgraded from the standard WRX in many categories, including blueprinted performance-tuned engines, transmissions, and suspensions. The STi
versions of the Impreza were immensely successful in rallies and popular among street racers. Special edition STi models such as the S201 featured higher power ratings than the standard WRX STi, while later versions of the WRX STi were rated at 206 kW due to the Japanese manufacturers' informal agreements around power ratings. Its top speed
was electronically limited at 180 km/h (111.8 mph) and it had a 0–100 km/h (0–62.1 mph) time of 5.9 seconds in the UK Impreza Turbo 160 kW version. 2006 WRX STI claimed 0–100 km/h (0–62.1 mph) in 5.4 seconds. RA (Race Altered) versions of the WRX and STi were also available in the Japanese market. Targeted for race and rally, the RA versions were generally lighter in weight; featuring reduced soundproofing, manual windows, no air conditioning, and added racing features such as more robust engines, driver controlled center differentials, and shorter gearing.
Special editions of the Impreza were very common in Japan and Europe, many coinciding with a significant World Rally Championship victory. These editions included the Series McRae, 555
, Catalunya, Terzo, RB5, P1
, and 22B, the latter still considered by many to be the ultimate Impreza of all time with its wide arched rally style body.
During this generation, Subaru made a limited edition Impreza Sport Wagon called the CasaBlanca, which had a retro
front and rear end treatment, which was inspired by the popular kei car
Subaru Vivio Bistro
styling package and Subaru Sambar Dias Classic. The Sport Wagon was also offered with the WRX turbocharged engine, and was called the Gravel Express.
The Impreza received an external facelift for the 1997 model year, followed by an interior redesign in 1998, using the new redesigned dashboard from the Forester.
The European 1999–2000 turbo model received further upgrades in the form of more parts from the STi range. The front brakes became Subaru branded 4-pot calipers with 294 mm (11.6 in) discs, the wheels having become 16 in (406.4 mm) lightweight alloys from 1998 – previously 15 in (381 mm), vented rear discs, the Sti 4 high level wing was fitted to the saloon, Sti style front bucket seats and firmer suspension. The phase 2 engine now fitted developed 160 kW, an increase of 5 kW over the previous model.
The story of the North American Impreza is much different than the rest of the world. North American markets never received a turbocharged version of the first generation Impreza (it was heavily rumored in 1998 and 1999). Subaru never had a performance image in North America, so Subaru initially offered the Impreza with the 1.8 L engine only, with either front- or all-wheel drive; a 2.2 L engine became optional in 1995. Subaru later decided to emphasize all-wheel drive, making it standard on every Impreza (and Legacy) from 1997 onwards.
There was a minority that knew of the Impreza's accomplishments overseas and was very interested in having a high-performance Impreza. To test the waters for a full-fledged turbo model Subaru showcased a turbocharged version of the Impreza at various car shows around the country. The vehicle was named the 2.5RX and is now located in Subaru of America's Cherry Hill, New Jersey storage facility. Subsequently the 2.5RS performance model was introduced in 1998 (the same year the 1.8 L engine was dropped). A naturally aspirated 123 kW 2.5 L DOHC engine and larger brakes, borrowed from the Legacy
, were fitted into the coupe body with gold-colored 16" five-spoke wheels. The 2.5RS also featured several external cues from its overseas brethren such as hood vents, a hood scoop, and a rally-inspired rear spoiler. The 1999 model featured several changes: the newly designed "Phase II" SOHC version of the same 2.5 L engine featured a slightly higher peak torque (225 N.m vs. 220 N.m), the wheels turned to a standard silver, the interior got an update, and US versions became visually similar to their Japanese contemporaries with an updated front bumper borrowed from the Japanese Version 6 Impreza WRX STi. 2.5RS models became available in sedan form in 2000.
For quick and easy reference to the different exteriors, some Subaru Impreza owners use nicknames based on the headlights. Each relates to a creature that has similar looking eyes - models, years 2002–2003, are called "Bug Eyes", years 2004–2005 are called "Alligator Eyes" or "Crocodile Eyes", years 2006–2007 are called "Hawk Eyes".
In the United States, release of the basic 169 kW 2.0 L turbocharged Impreza, the WRX, did not occur until the 2002 model year, and the Impreza WRX STi was delayed until the 2004 model year. The US version of the STi includes various departures from the Japanese and European counterparts, such as a turbocharged 2.5 L EJ257 engine, rather than the twin scroll turbo 2.0 L engine sold elsewhere. All 2006 American Imprezas use some form of the 2.5 L EJ25 engine since naturally aspirated and turbo charged are available.
Some customers' and the press' negative reaction to the New Age Impreza's styling forced Subaru to facelift the car in 2003 for 2004 model year, with more conventional, rectangular headlamps, nicknamed 'crocodile eyes'. For the US market, the facelifted Impreza was offered as 2.5 RS Sedan and TS Wagon, 2.5 Outback Sport Wagon, WRX Sedan and Wagon, and the new WRX STi Sedan. Sport Package was optional for the RS, and the WRX could be ordered with Premium Package. The RS, TS, Outback Sport, and WRX are available with manual or automatic transmission, while the sole transmission for the STi is 6-speed manual.
All 2006 Imprezas, including the performance models, have been redesigned, along with new headlights (nicknamed 'hawk eyes'), taillights, and bumpers. The grille design was dropped in the 3rd generation Impreza, due to the restyling. The 2.5 RS was dropped from the line up, and replaced by the base model 2.5i.
The most basic Impreza in Japan is 1.5 i with 1.5 L EJ15 SOHC engine. The 1.5 R comes with the 1.5 L DOHC engine with AVCS, but is only available with automatic transmission, whereas the 1.5i model is available with either automatic
or manual transmission
. For both models, AWD and 2WD versions are available. Option packages for either the 1.5i or 1.5R include wheel type, size, bucket seats, and white LED illuminated gauge meters. Starting with model year 2006, the EJ15 was replaced with the new EL15
In 2005, Subaru made their AVCS standard on all engines used in the Impreza.
For export market, the all-wheel-drive 1.6 TS is offered in Asian countries and in Singapore
, where Subaru won a major tender to replace the Singapore Police Force
's large fleet of Fast Response Car
s with the model. The 1.5 sedan is normal body similar to the Sports Wagon. The TS shares wide body with WRX and WRX STI.
, this model has become the baseline Impreza in Australia), RV (2.0 L engine, styled for active lifestyles, similar to the USA-spec Impreza Outback Sport), RS (2.5 L engine, sport model) along with the WRX and STi version thereof. The RX model has been abandoned in Australia, and its position in the Impreza line-up has been subsumed by the GX (which had formerly been a sparsely outfitted budget model). A variant of the RS for Australia is the RS-X, which whilst technically not a naturally aspirated version of the WRX as is often claimed, does feature many WRX components, including wheels and brakes, in a package powered by the 2.5 L drivetrain.
was dropped from the WRX, despite the popularity of the sports shift automatic in other Subarus such as the Outback
. In 2006 the automatic transmission was added to the Limited package, which includes heated leather seats, power mirrors, heated wiper blades and a sunroof
. Side airbags were added as standard across the range. Subaru Impreza WRXs have been bought by French Gendarmerie for its Motorway patrols.
At the New York Auto Show, Subaru introduced a new WRX.
at the 2007 New York Auto Show. In contrast to its usual rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer
, the Impreza WRX is increasingly being positioned as a 'practical' performance car - the suspension for instance is more accommodating of everyday roads.
Similar to the marketing of the Lancer, Subaru plans to offer a lower volume of slightly upscale, well-equipped, sportier Impreza models, unlike other contemporaries such as the Honda Civic
, Mazda3, and Toyota Corolla
that offer no-frills base trims
.
The new Impreza is offered as both a 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback.
The new base model Impreza is slightly longer, wider and has a longer wheelbase. The dashboard in the Impreza is much more open and is easy to configure. Two Subaru traditions have been ended with the new Impreza: the parking light switch atop the steering column is no longer present, and for the first time the windows have frames to improve NVH
levels.
In the Japanese domestic market the range comprises the 1.5 L 15S using the EL15 series engine, the 2.0 L 20S and the 2.0 L turbocharged S-GT using the EJ20 series engine. Variations are found in other markets around the world: In Australia the range at launch included three 2.0 L models (the R, RX and RS) and a 2.5 L turbocharged WRX.
In the United States market (the US and Canadian markets were the only ones to receive the sedan until it made its Japanese debut in fall 2008 as 'Impreza Anesis') for the 2008 model year, the model range consists of the 2.5 L, 2.5i and Outback Sport and the 2.5 L turbocharged WRX. Both the 2.5 and the 2.5i are electronically limited from surpassing 190 km/h (118.1 mph). The EJ253 engine carries over from the previous generation to power the 2.5i and the EJ255 engine carries over from the previous generation (although it now uses many external engine components from the Legacy GT
) to power the turbocharged WRX
trim levels. In the Canadian market, the base Impreza 2.5i model received upgrades for the 2009 model year, including rear disc brakes, electronic stability control and traction control, and body-colored door handles, features previously only found on the 2.5 Sport and more expensive trims.
From September 2007 the Impreza range in Australia has been changed with models designated R, RX, RS and WRX. Initially only hatch models were offered. The R, RX and RS all share the same engine - a new 2.0 L boxer engine, with 110 kW @ 6400 rpm and 196 Nm @ 3200 rpm. Subaru recommends that the new engines be run on 95 RON premium unleaded fuel. Another noticeable difference from the Japanese Impreza is the removal of the "Engine Start" button from the Australian model. The iconic WRX has largely unchanged engine power output of 169 kW and 320 Nm from its 2.5 L engine. As with previous versions, there will only be a manual version of the WRX. The weight of the car also has been lightened (by approx. 50 lb (22.7 kg)) to just 1400 kg, and gives the WRX a 0–100 km/h time of 5.8 seconds. In contrast, curb weight of the standard Impreza model is approx. 60 lb (27.2 kg) heavier, although still lighter than the WRX trim level.
In Israel, the Impreza is denoted as the B3, and three styles are offered: the B3 1.5, with a 1.5 L engine, the B3 2.0 and the B3 2.0 Sport, both with 2.0 L engines. Four-door and five-door models are available for each engine type, ranging from the basic R class, to the medium RX and top RXI class. No 2.5 L engine option is available.
The third generation Impreza is sold in certain Asian countries in 1.5R, 2.0R, 2.0 S-GT, 2.5 WRX, and 2.5 WRX STI trim levels. In Indonesia
, the Impreza was initially only available as 5-door Hatchback only. The 1.5R and 2.0R can be ordered with Dual Range 5-speed manual, or 4-speed automatic SPORTSHIFT electronically controlled transmission. However, in Singapore
and Thailand
, the Impreza 1.5 R, 2.0 R, and 2.5 WRX are also offered as 4-door Sedan. In Indonesia and Singapore, the WRX STI trim can be ordered with Dual Range 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic SPORTSHIFT electronically controlled transmission. In 2011, the 4-door Impreza Sedan 1.5R, 2.0R and WRX STi will be also offered in Indonesia.
The latest-generation of the WRX STI which is built as "wide body" hatchback only debuted in the Tokyo Auto Show in October 2007. The release date for a US launch was in March 2008. The WRX STI chassis code is GR, different from the GH used for the "standard body" hatchback WRX chassis. The Japanese WRX STI is powered by 2.0 L improved EJ207 engine with twin scroll turbo, while the American and other export models has 2.5 L EJ257 with single scroll turbo. The Impreza WRX STI features a Multi-Mode Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD).
In the 2010 New York International Auto Show, Subaru unveiled the 2011 model year "wide body" Impreza WRX Sedan and Hatchback, as well as the Impreza WRX STI 4-door Sedan. The new STI Sedan features high rear spoiler similar to the old STI.
In early September 2007, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
(IIHS) crash-tested the 2.5i 5-door Impreza and gave it the highest ranking available due
to the test results the car achieved, continuing Subaru's reputation for producing cars that consistently earn the institute's highest rating.
The Impreza also achieved a 5 Star Safety Rating, and a 4 Star Pedestrian Safety rating in the ANCAP
crash tests.
. The new design achieves its improved fuel economy of 36mpg highway (with CVT transmission) primarily by utilizing a new all aluminum 2 liter engine with making 148 hp, down from the previous generation's 170hp generated using a 2.5 liter engine. Despite the reduced power, Subaru claims that the new Impreza is 0.3 second quicker from 0-60 than the previous generation when equipped with the CVT transmission, due to reduced weight. Subaru anticipates that the improved fuel economy will attract new customers while enthusiasts will be drawn to the performance oriented WRX and WRX STI models. The last-generation high-performance WRX
variants will continue production until new versions will be released in 2013. It has been announced that the new Impreza will be built in Japan and not Indiana. There was also reported that the XV, which is based on this generation Impreza, will likely to be assembled in Malaysia next year. The 2012 American Subaru Impreza might be affected by the assembly plant shutdowns in Japan because of the March 2011 Earthquake and power shortages. Due to this issue, the new Impreza will be first released in Japan
on 30 November 2011.
The Impreza chassis has been more successful in rallying
than Subaru's previous contenders. Prior to the introduction of the Impreza into World Rally Championship
racing in 1993, the Subaru World Rally Team
had fielded its larger mid-size Legacy
. However, with the rest of the rally competition increasingly shifting towards smaller and lighter chassis, Subaru introduced the smaller Impreza, immediately achieving a podium on its debut on the 1993 1000 Lakes Rally. To jumpstart its early rally efforts, and to develop the Impreza into a competitive rally car, Subaru teamed up with its current preporatory firm, British motorsports company Prodrive
, in 1989.
Immediately following the first overall WRC event win for both the fledgling Subaru team and its young driver, the late Colin McRae
aboard a Group A
Legacy
on the 1993 Rally New Zealand
, the Scotman
's team-mate and childhood idol, 1981
World Rally Champion, Ari Vatanen
of Finland, went on to finish second in the debut rally of the first ever factory Impreza. New recruit for the following season, 1990
and 1992 World Champion, Carlos Sainz
brought the Impreza its inaugural victory on the 1994 Acropolis Rally.
The Impreza brought Subaru
three consecutive WRC constructors' titles (1995–1997, the latter season the first for the newly introduced World Rally Car
class) and a driver's championship for McRae in 1995, the late Richard Burns
in 2001, and the Norwegian
, Petter Solberg
in 2003.
Another evolution of the Impreza WRC made its debut in the 2007 Corona Rally Mexico. Unfortunately, the team had several major problems with reliability as the car experienced mechanical difficulties in almost every rally from its first.
Subaru debuted an Impreza WRC in hatchback form for the first time from the 2008
Acropolis Rally onwards, on which event Solberg scored a second place finish.
On 16 December 2008 Subaru announced that it would withdraw from the World Rally Championship
due to economic problems.
However, the Subaru Rally Team USA is still competing in the Rally America National Championship. Also, there are still several teams using Subaru models in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.
In frontal-offset and side crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the United States, the second-generation Impreza earned "Good" ratings. 2005-2007 models also earned a "Good" rating for rear crash protection (head restraint design) placing it at the top of IIHS small car ratings.
The third generation MY2008 Impreza continued the tradition and also earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety highest rating for "Good" in each individual test, earning an overall score of "Good".
The third generation MY2008 Impreza hatchback received five stars (34.66 out of 37 points) for occupant protection and a four star pedestrian rating under testing by ANCAP.
magazine's Car of the Year
for 2000. Car and Driver
Magazine named the North American market WRX to its prestigious 10-best
list in 2002, with a follow-up performance in 2003.
Front-wheel drive
Front-wheel drive is a form of engine/transmission layout used in motor vehicles, where the engine drives the front wheels only. Most modern front-wheel drive vehicles feature a transverse engine, rather than the conventional longitudinal engine arrangement generally found in rear-wheel drive and...
(FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD) versions and as a four-door sedan/saloon or five-door station wagon
Station wagon
A station wagon is a body style variant of a sedan/saloon with its roof extended rearward over a shared passenger/cargo volume with access at the back via a third or fifth door , instead of a trunk lid...
/estate. According to a Motor Trend
Motor Trend
Motor Trend is an American automobile magazine. It first appeared in September 1949, issued by Petersen Publishing Company in Los Angeles, and bearing the tag line "The Magazine for a Motoring World". Petersen Publishing was sold to British publisher EMAP in 1998, who sold the former Petersen...
article written March 1992 on page 26, the name of Subaru's new compact was, initially, to be called the Loyale
Subaru Leone
The Subaru Leone was a compact car produced by the Japanese car manufacturer Fuji Heavy Industries from 1971 to 1994. The word "leone" is Italian for lion....
, displaying an official photograph of the 4-door sedan. In late 1995, a two-door coupe
Coupé
A coupé or coupe is a closed car body style , the precise definition of which varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and over time...
was introduced. The Impreza, like many Subaru-built cars, was equipped with a flat engine
Flat engine
A flat engine is an internal combustion engine with multiple pistons that move in a horizontal plane. Typically, the layout has cylinders arranged in two banks on either side of a single crankshaft and is sometimes known as the boxer, or horizontally opposed engine. The concept was patented in 1896...
, a distinguishing Subaru characteristic. Initial engine choices included 1.6 L, 1.8 L and 2.0 L naturally aspirated engines as well as the turbocharged
Turbocharger
A turbocharger, or turbo , from the Greek "τύρβη" is a centrifugal compressor powered by a turbine that is driven by an engine's exhaust gases. Its benefit lies with the compressor increasing the mass of air entering the engine , thereby resulting in greater performance...
and intercooled
Intercooler
An intercooler , or charge air cooler, is an air-to-air or air-to-liquid heat exchange device used on turbocharged and supercharged internal combustion engines to improve their volumetric efficiency by increasing intake air charge density through nearly isobaric cooling, which removes...
2.0 L engine. The basic turbocharged motor, the EJ20, produced from 179 kW to 210 kW in Japanese market WRX
Subaru Impreza WRX
The Subaru Impreza WRX is a turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza, an all-wheel drive, four-door passenger vehicle. It is available as a sedan or wagon....
trim depending on model and year. Outside Japan, the turbocharged model was initially rated at 155 kW and marketed as the 2.0 Turbo, 2.0 GT, 2.0 GT Turbo, 2.0 WRX, or Turbo 2000 AWD in the United Kingdom.
Trim levels were LX, GL and Sport. LX models were front-wheel drive, and powered by a 1.6 L engine; these were four-door only.
GL trim levels were either front-wheel drive (Subaru badged these 2WD) or all-wheel-drive (badged AWD); cars launched in 1993 had a choice of 1.6 and 1.8 flat-4
Flat-4
A flat-4 or horizontally opposed-4 is a flat engine with four cylinders arranged horizontally in two banks of two cylinders on each side of a central crankcase...
engines, the 1.6 being available with 2WD, the 1.8 an AWD version only. From 1996, the 1.6 and 1.8 versions were dropped (in the European market), and replaced by a 2.0 L engine. Sport versions had alloy wheels, and a 2.0 L engine only. These were "warm hatch" versions which were similar to the WRX, albeit less adorned.
In 1994, Subaru introduced Subaru Technica International (STi) versions of the Impreza WRX in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM). These models were upgraded from the standard WRX in many categories, including blueprinted performance-tuned engines, transmissions, and suspensions. The STi
Subaru Impreza WRX STI
The Subaru Impreza WRX STI, has the highest trim in the Subaru Impreza compact car line, produced by Japanese automaker Subaru.In the late 1980s, Subaru created the Subaru Tecnica International division to coordinate development for the FIA World Rally Championship and other motorsports activities...
versions of the Impreza were immensely successful in rallies and popular among street racers. Special edition STi models such as the S201 featured higher power ratings than the standard WRX STi, while later versions of the WRX STi were rated at 206 kW due to the Japanese manufacturers' informal agreements around power ratings. Its top speed
Speed
In kinematics, the speed of an object is the magnitude of its velocity ; it is thus a scalar quantity. The average speed of an object in an interval of time is the distance traveled by the object divided by the duration of the interval; the instantaneous speed is the limit of the average speed as...
was electronically limited at 180 km/h (111.8 mph) and it had a 0–100 km/h (0–62.1 mph) time of 5.9 seconds in the UK Impreza Turbo 160 kW version. 2006 WRX STI claimed 0–100 km/h (0–62.1 mph) in 5.4 seconds. RA (Race Altered) versions of the WRX and STi were also available in the Japanese market. Targeted for race and rally, the RA versions were generally lighter in weight; featuring reduced soundproofing, manual windows, no air conditioning, and added racing features such as more robust engines, driver controlled center differentials, and shorter gearing.
Special editions of the Impreza were very common in Japan and Europe, many coinciding with a significant World Rally Championship victory. These editions included the Series McRae, 555
State Express 555
State Express 555 is a brand of cigarette manufactured by British American Tobacco. It was first launched in 1895 and is a very popular brand in Asia, especially China where it is BAT's most popular brand.-Sponsorship:...
, Catalunya, Terzo, RB5, P1
Subaru 1500
The first vehicle built by the automotive division of Fuji Heavy Industries was called the Subaru 1500, with the development code-name of P1. The prototype used a monocoque body structure, with an independent front wishbone suspension and a rear leaf spring suspension with three plates and a live...
, and 22B, the latter still considered by many to be the ultimate Impreza of all time with its wide arched rally style body.
During this generation, Subaru made a limited edition Impreza Sport Wagon called the CasaBlanca, which had a retro
Retro
Retro is a culturally outdated or aged style, trend, mode, or fashion, from the overall postmodern past, that has since that time become functionally or superficially the norm once again. The use of "retro" style iconography and imagery interjected into post-modern art, advertising, mass media, etc...
front and rear end treatment, which was inspired by the popular kei car
Kei car
Kei cars, K-cars, or , are a Japanese category of small vehicles, including passenger cars, vans, and pickup trucks. They are designed to comply with Japanese government tax and insurance regulations, and in most rural areas are exempted from the requirement to certify that adequate parking is...
Subaru Vivio Bistro
Subaru Vivio
The Subaru Vivio is a kei car that was introduced in March 1992, and manufactured by Subaru until October 1998. It has a 658 cc multi-point fuel-injected four-cylinder engine , which is small enough to place it in the light car class, giving its owners large tax breaks in Japan...
styling package and Subaru Sambar Dias Classic. The Sport Wagon was also offered with the WRX turbocharged engine, and was called the Gravel Express.
The Impreza received an external facelift for the 1997 model year, followed by an interior redesign in 1998, using the new redesigned dashboard from the Forester.
The European 1999–2000 turbo model received further upgrades in the form of more parts from the STi range. The front brakes became Subaru branded 4-pot calipers with 294 mm (11.6 in) discs, the wheels having become 16 in (406.4 mm) lightweight alloys from 1998 – previously 15 in (381 mm), vented rear discs, the Sti 4 high level wing was fitted to the saloon, Sti style front bucket seats and firmer suspension. The phase 2 engine now fitted developed 160 kW, an increase of 5 kW over the previous model.
The story of the North American Impreza is much different than the rest of the world. North American markets never received a turbocharged version of the first generation Impreza (it was heavily rumored in 1998 and 1999). Subaru never had a performance image in North America, so Subaru initially offered the Impreza with the 1.8 L engine only, with either front- or all-wheel drive; a 2.2 L engine became optional in 1995. Subaru later decided to emphasize all-wheel drive, making it standard on every Impreza (and Legacy) from 1997 onwards.
There was a minority that knew of the Impreza's accomplishments overseas and was very interested in having a high-performance Impreza. To test the waters for a full-fledged turbo model Subaru showcased a turbocharged version of the Impreza at various car shows around the country. The vehicle was named the 2.5RX and is now located in Subaru of America's Cherry Hill, New Jersey storage facility. Subsequently the 2.5RS performance model was introduced in 1998 (the same year the 1.8 L engine was dropped). A naturally aspirated 123 kW 2.5 L DOHC engine and larger brakes, borrowed from the Legacy
Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car built by the Japanese company Fuji Heavy Industries, and manufactured by its division Subaru since 1989, and is available as a sedan or wagon. Part of the original design goals for the Legacy model was to provide Subaru a vehicle in which they could compete in...
, were fitted into the coupe body with gold-colored 16" five-spoke wheels. The 2.5RS also featured several external cues from its overseas brethren such as hood vents, a hood scoop, and a rally-inspired rear spoiler. The 1999 model featured several changes: the newly designed "Phase II" SOHC version of the same 2.5 L engine featured a slightly higher peak torque (225 N.m vs. 220 N.m), the wheels turned to a standard silver, the interior got an update, and US versions became visually similar to their Japanese contemporaries with an updated front bumper borrowed from the Japanese Version 6 Impreza WRX STi. 2.5RS models became available in sedan form in 2000.
Second generation (GD/GG)
Subaru introduced the "New Age" Impreza to the world market in 2001. The second generation Impreza was intended to be larger, safer, stiffer, more refined, and more responsive. The WRX Sedan had a 20 mm (0.78740157480315 in) wider track than its predecessor to aid handling, while the wagon remained the same. The coupe model was no longer available. The headlamp styling of the New Age Impreza was polarizing, but the improvements to the car brought greater mainstream acceptance.For quick and easy reference to the different exteriors, some Subaru Impreza owners use nicknames based on the headlights. Each relates to a creature that has similar looking eyes - models, years 2002–2003, are called "Bug Eyes", years 2004–2005 are called "Alligator Eyes" or "Crocodile Eyes", years 2006–2007 are called "Hawk Eyes".
In the United States, release of the basic 169 kW 2.0 L turbocharged Impreza, the WRX, did not occur until the 2002 model year, and the Impreza WRX STi was delayed until the 2004 model year. The US version of the STi includes various departures from the Japanese and European counterparts, such as a turbocharged 2.5 L EJ257 engine, rather than the twin scroll turbo 2.0 L engine sold elsewhere. All 2006 American Imprezas use some form of the 2.5 L EJ25 engine since naturally aspirated and turbo charged are available.
Some customers' and the press' negative reaction to the New Age Impreza's styling forced Subaru to facelift the car in 2003 for 2004 model year, with more conventional, rectangular headlamps, nicknamed 'crocodile eyes'. For the US market, the facelifted Impreza was offered as 2.5 RS Sedan and TS Wagon, 2.5 Outback Sport Wagon, WRX Sedan and Wagon, and the new WRX STi Sedan. Sport Package was optional for the RS, and the WRX could be ordered with Premium Package. The RS, TS, Outback Sport, and WRX are available with manual or automatic transmission, while the sole transmission for the STi is 6-speed manual.
All 2006 Imprezas, including the performance models, have been redesigned, along with new headlights (nicknamed 'hawk eyes'), taillights, and bumpers. The grille design was dropped in the 3rd generation Impreza, due to the restyling. The 2.5 RS was dropped from the line up, and replaced by the base model 2.5i.
The most basic Impreza in Japan is 1.5 i with 1.5 L EJ15 SOHC engine. The 1.5 R comes with the 1.5 L DOHC engine with AVCS, but is only available with automatic transmission, whereas the 1.5i model is available with either automatic
Automatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
or manual transmission
Manual transmission
A manual transmission, also known as a manual gearbox or standard transmission is a type of transmission used in motor vehicle applications...
. For both models, AWD and 2WD versions are available. Option packages for either the 1.5i or 1.5R include wheel type, size, bucket seats, and white LED illuminated gauge meters. Starting with model year 2006, the EJ15 was replaced with the new EL15
In 2005, Subaru made their AVCS standard on all engines used in the Impreza.
For export market, the all-wheel-drive 1.6 TS is offered in Asian countries and in Singapore
Singapore
Singapore , officially the Republic of Singapore, is a Southeast Asian city-state off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, north of the equator. An island country made up of 63 islands, it is separated from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor to its north and from Indonesia's Riau Islands by the...
, where Subaru won a major tender to replace the Singapore Police Force
Singapore Police Force
The Singapore Police Force is the main agency tasked with maintaining law and order in the city-state. Formerly known as the Republic of Singapore Police , it has grown from an 11-man organisation to a 38,587 strong force...
's large fleet of Fast Response Car
Fast Response Car
Singapore Police Force land division officers typically respond to calls in rapid-deployment vehicles now known as the Fast Response Car which are the main police cars in Singapore. Prior to 2000, they were known in public simply as police patrol cars....
s with the model. The 1.5 sedan is normal body similar to the Sports Wagon. The TS shares wide body with WRX and WRX STI.
2004
Models offered in Australia in 2004 included the GX (2.0 L engineInternal combustion engine
The internal combustion engine is an engine in which the combustion of a fuel occurs with an oxidizer in a combustion chamber. In an internal combustion engine, the expansion of the high-temperature and high -pressure gases produced by combustion apply direct force to some component of the engine...
, this model has become the baseline Impreza in Australia), RV (2.0 L engine, styled for active lifestyles, similar to the USA-spec Impreza Outback Sport), RS (2.5 L engine, sport model) along with the WRX and STi version thereof. The RX model has been abandoned in Australia, and its position in the Impreza line-up has been subsumed by the GX (which had formerly been a sparsely outfitted budget model). A variant of the RS for Australia is the RS-X, which whilst technically not a naturally aspirated version of the WRX as is often claimed, does feature many WRX components, including wheels and brakes, in a package powered by the 2.5 L drivetrain.
2005–2007
In late 2004 a new range was released; including the entry-level 2.0i (formerly GX), RV, 2.0R (formerly RS), WRX and WRX STi models. The 2.0R changed from a 2.5 L engine to a slightly more powerful 2.0 L engine; while the turbocharged WRX changed from a 2.0 L engine to a 2.5 L engine. The automatic transmissionAutomatic transmission
An automatic transmission is one type of motor vehicle transmission that can automatically change gear ratios as the vehicle moves, freeing the driver from having to shift gears manually...
was dropped from the WRX, despite the popularity of the sports shift automatic in other Subarus such as the Outback
Subaru Outback
The Subaru Outback is a station wagon manufactured by Fuji Heavy Industries since 1995. Its original concept originated with Subaru of America, which was suffering from slumping sales in the mid-1990s partly due to a lack of an entry in the then-burgeoning sport utility vehicle market...
. In 2006 the automatic transmission was added to the Limited package, which includes heated leather seats, power mirrors, heated wiper blades and a sunroof
Sunroof
An automotive sunroof is a fixed or operable opening in an automobile roof which allows light and/or fresh air to enter the passenger compartment. Sunroofs may be manually operated or motor driven, and are available in many shapes, sizes and styles...
. Side airbags were added as standard across the range. Subaru Impreza WRXs have been bought by French Gendarmerie for its Motorway patrols.
At the New York Auto Show, Subaru introduced a new WRX.
Third generation (GE/GH/GR/GV)
On 2 April 2007, Subaru officially unveiled the next generation Impreza WRXSubaru Impreza WRX
The Subaru Impreza WRX is a turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza, an all-wheel drive, four-door passenger vehicle. It is available as a sedan or wagon....
at the 2007 New York Auto Show. In contrast to its usual rival, the Mitsubishi Lancer
Mitsubishi Lancer
The Mitsubishi Lancer is a family car built by Mitsubishi Motors. It has been known as the Colt Lancer, Dodge/Plymouth Colt, Chrysler Valiant Lancer, Chrysler Lancer, Eagle Summit, Hindustan Lancer, Soueast Lioncel, Mitsubishi Carisma, and Mitsubishi Mirage in various countries at different times,...
, the Impreza WRX is increasingly being positioned as a 'practical' performance car - the suspension for instance is more accommodating of everyday roads.
Similar to the marketing of the Lancer, Subaru plans to offer a lower volume of slightly upscale, well-equipped, sportier Impreza models, unlike other contemporaries such as the Honda Civic
Honda Civic
The Honda Civic is a line of subcompact and subsequently compact cars made and manufactured by Honda. The Civic, along with the Accord and Prelude, comprised Honda's vehicles sold in North America until the 1990s, when the model lineup was expanded...
, Mazda3, and Toyota Corolla
Toyota Corolla
The Toyota Corolla is a line of subcompact and compact cars manufactured by the Japanese automaker Toyota, which has become very popular throughout the world since the nameplate was first introduced in 1966. In 1997, the Corolla became the best selling nameplate in the world, with over 35 million...
that offer no-frills base trims
Economy car
An economy car is an automobile that is designed for low cost operation. Typical economy cars are small, light weight, and inexpensive to buy. Economy car designers are forced by stringent design constraints to be inventive...
.
The new Impreza is offered as both a 4-door sedan and 5-door hatchback.
The new base model Impreza is slightly longer, wider and has a longer wheelbase. The dashboard in the Impreza is much more open and is easy to configure. Two Subaru traditions have been ended with the new Impreza: the parking light switch atop the steering column is no longer present, and for the first time the windows have frames to improve NVH
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness
Noise, vibration, and harshness , also known as noise and vibration , is the study and modification of the noise and vibration characteristics of vehicles, particularly cars and trucks...
levels.
In the Japanese domestic market the range comprises the 1.5 L 15S using the EL15 series engine, the 2.0 L 20S and the 2.0 L turbocharged S-GT using the EJ20 series engine. Variations are found in other markets around the world: In Australia the range at launch included three 2.0 L models (the R, RX and RS) and a 2.5 L turbocharged WRX.
In the United States market (the US and Canadian markets were the only ones to receive the sedan until it made its Japanese debut in fall 2008 as 'Impreza Anesis') for the 2008 model year, the model range consists of the 2.5 L, 2.5i and Outback Sport and the 2.5 L turbocharged WRX. Both the 2.5 and the 2.5i are electronically limited from surpassing 190 km/h (118.1 mph). The EJ253 engine carries over from the previous generation to power the 2.5i and the EJ255 engine carries over from the previous generation (although it now uses many external engine components from the Legacy GT
Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car built by the Japanese company Fuji Heavy Industries, and manufactured by its division Subaru since 1989, and is available as a sedan or wagon. Part of the original design goals for the Legacy model was to provide Subaru a vehicle in which they could compete in...
) to power the turbocharged WRX
Subaru Impreza WRX
The Subaru Impreza WRX is a turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza, an all-wheel drive, four-door passenger vehicle. It is available as a sedan or wagon....
trim levels. In the Canadian market, the base Impreza 2.5i model received upgrades for the 2009 model year, including rear disc brakes, electronic stability control and traction control, and body-colored door handles, features previously only found on the 2.5 Sport and more expensive trims.
From September 2007 the Impreza range in Australia has been changed with models designated R, RX, RS and WRX. Initially only hatch models were offered. The R, RX and RS all share the same engine - a new 2.0 L boxer engine, with 110 kW @ 6400 rpm and 196 Nm @ 3200 rpm. Subaru recommends that the new engines be run on 95 RON premium unleaded fuel. Another noticeable difference from the Japanese Impreza is the removal of the "Engine Start" button from the Australian model. The iconic WRX has largely unchanged engine power output of 169 kW and 320 Nm from its 2.5 L engine. As with previous versions, there will only be a manual version of the WRX. The weight of the car also has been lightened (by approx. 50 lb (22.7 kg)) to just 1400 kg, and gives the WRX a 0–100 km/h time of 5.8 seconds. In contrast, curb weight of the standard Impreza model is approx. 60 lb (27.2 kg) heavier, although still lighter than the WRX trim level.
In Israel, the Impreza is denoted as the B3, and three styles are offered: the B3 1.5, with a 1.5 L engine, the B3 2.0 and the B3 2.0 Sport, both with 2.0 L engines. Four-door and five-door models are available for each engine type, ranging from the basic R class, to the medium RX and top RXI class. No 2.5 L engine option is available.
The third generation Impreza is sold in certain Asian countries in 1.5R, 2.0R, 2.0 S-GT, 2.5 WRX, and 2.5 WRX STI trim levels. In Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia , officially the Republic of Indonesia , is a country in Southeast Asia and Oceania. Indonesia is an archipelago comprising approximately 13,000 islands. It has 33 provinces with over 238 million people, and is the world's fourth most populous country. Indonesia is a republic, with an...
, the Impreza was initially only available as 5-door Hatchback only. The 1.5R and 2.0R can be ordered with Dual Range 5-speed manual, or 4-speed automatic SPORTSHIFT electronically controlled transmission. However, in Singapore
Singapore
Singapore , officially the Republic of Singapore, is a Southeast Asian city-state off the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula, north of the equator. An island country made up of 63 islands, it is separated from Malaysia by the Straits of Johor to its north and from Indonesia's Riau Islands by the...
and Thailand
Thailand
Thailand , officially the Kingdom of Thailand , formerly known as Siam , is a country located at the centre of the Indochina peninsula and Southeast Asia. It is bordered to the north by Burma and Laos, to the east by Laos and Cambodia, to the south by the Gulf of Thailand and Malaysia, and to the...
, the Impreza 1.5 R, 2.0 R, and 2.5 WRX are also offered as 4-door Sedan. In Indonesia and Singapore, the WRX STI trim can be ordered with Dual Range 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic SPORTSHIFT electronically controlled transmission. In 2011, the 4-door Impreza Sedan 1.5R, 2.0R and WRX STi will be also offered in Indonesia.
Facelift
A facelifted 2010 model of the Subaru Impreza went on sale in late 2009, receiving a new grille insert.In the 2010 New York International Auto Show, Subaru unveiled the 2011 model year "wide body" Impreza WRX Sedan and Hatchback, as well as the Impreza WRX STI 4-door Sedan. The new STI Sedan features high rear spoiler similar to the old STI.
Safety
Safety of the car has been increased with range wide inclusion of Stability/Traction control as standard in some markets.In early September 2007, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is a U.S. non-profit organization funded by auto insurers, established in 1959 and headquartered in Arlington, Virginia. It works to reduce the number of motor vehicle crashes, and the rate of injuries and amount of property damage in the crashes that...
(IIHS) crash-tested the 2.5i 5-door Impreza and gave it the highest ranking available due
to the test results the car achieved, continuing Subaru's reputation for producing cars that consistently earn the institute's highest rating.
The Impreza also achieved a 5 Star Safety Rating, and a 4 Star Pedestrian Safety rating in the ANCAP
Australasian New Car Assessment Program
The Australasian New Car Assessment Program is an automobile organisation operated by the governments and motoring organisations of Australia and New Zealand to give consumers coherent results on the protection given by vehicles in front and side impact collisions...
crash tests.
Diesel
A boxer diesel engine, called the Subaru EE, for European Impreza models was introduced at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. The diesel Impreza was made available for sale in several European countries in early 2009, with the 2.0 L turbodiesel engine of 150 horsepower. Two models are available as of July 2009, 2.0 TD and 2.0 TD Sport, which is better equipped.Fourth generation (GP/GJ)
The fourth generation Impreza was unveiled on 20 April 2011 at the New York Auto Show, as its predecessor was, with a launch scheduled for autumn of the same year. It will be primarily an evolutionary design, remaining nearly the same size but being lighter and more fuel efficient and featuring a host of technical improvements as well as better packaging (Leading to greater interior space), higher quality materials in the interior, and new styling sharing a family resemblance with the fifth generation Subaru LegacySubaru Legacy (fifth generation)
The fifth-generation Subaru Legacy was originally unveiled as a concept car at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the model, and the production version was introduced at the 2009 New York International Auto Show...
. The new design achieves its improved fuel economy of 36mpg highway (with CVT transmission) primarily by utilizing a new all aluminum 2 liter engine with making 148 hp, down from the previous generation's 170hp generated using a 2.5 liter engine. Despite the reduced power, Subaru claims that the new Impreza is 0.3 second quicker from 0-60 than the previous generation when equipped with the CVT transmission, due to reduced weight. Subaru anticipates that the improved fuel economy will attract new customers while enthusiasts will be drawn to the performance oriented WRX and WRX STI models. The last-generation high-performance WRX
Subaru Impreza WRX
The Subaru Impreza WRX is a turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza, an all-wheel drive, four-door passenger vehicle. It is available as a sedan or wagon....
variants will continue production until new versions will be released in 2013. It has been announced that the new Impreza will be built in Japan and not Indiana. There was also reported that the XV, which is based on this generation Impreza, will likely to be assembled in Malaysia next year. The 2012 American Subaru Impreza might be affected by the assembly plant shutdowns in Japan because of the March 2011 Earthquake and power shortages. Due to this issue, the new Impreza will be first released in Japan
Japan
Japan is an island nation in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, China, North Korea, South Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south...
on 30 November 2011.
Motorsports
Rallying
Rallying, also known as rally racing, is a form of auto racing that takes place on public or private roads with modified production or specially built road-legal cars...
than Subaru's previous contenders. Prior to the introduction of the Impreza into World Rally Championship
World Rally Championship
The World Rally Championship is a rallying series organised by the FIA, culminating with a champion driver and manufacturer. The driver's world championship and manufacturer's world championship are separate championships, but based on the same point system. The series currently consists of 13...
racing in 1993, the Subaru World Rally Team
Subaru World Rally Team
The Subaru World Rally Team was Subaru's World Rally Championship team. It used a distinctive blue with yellow color scheme that is a throwback to the sponsorship deal with State Express 555, a BAT cigarette brand popular in Asia. 555 logos were found on Subaru cars from 1993 to 2003...
had fielded its larger mid-size Legacy
Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car built by the Japanese company Fuji Heavy Industries, and manufactured by its division Subaru since 1989, and is available as a sedan or wagon. Part of the original design goals for the Legacy model was to provide Subaru a vehicle in which they could compete in...
. However, with the rest of the rally competition increasingly shifting towards smaller and lighter chassis, Subaru introduced the smaller Impreza, immediately achieving a podium on its debut on the 1993 1000 Lakes Rally. To jumpstart its early rally efforts, and to develop the Impreza into a competitive rally car, Subaru teamed up with its current preporatory firm, British motorsports company Prodrive
Prodrive
Prodrive is a British motorsport and automotive engineering group based in Banbury, Oxfordshire, England. It designs, constructs and races cars for companies and teams such as Subaru, Aston Martin and Ford...
, in 1989.
Immediately following the first overall WRC event win for both the fledgling Subaru team and its young driver, the late Colin McRae
Colin McRae
Colin Steele McRae, MBE was a Scottish rally driver born in Lanark.The son of five-time British Rally Champion Jimmy McRae and brother of rally driver Alister McRae, Colin McRae was the 1991 and 1992 British Rally Champion and, in 1995, became the first British person and the youngest to win the...
aboard a Group A
Group A
In relation to motorsport governed by the FIA, Group A referred to a set of regulations providing production-derived vehicles for outright competition. In contrast to the short-lived Group B and Group C, the Group A referred to production-derived vehicles limited in terms of power, weight, allowed...
Legacy
Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car built by the Japanese company Fuji Heavy Industries, and manufactured by its division Subaru since 1989, and is available as a sedan or wagon. Part of the original design goals for the Legacy model was to provide Subaru a vehicle in which they could compete in...
on the 1993 Rally New Zealand
Rally New Zealand
The Rally New Zealand was first held in Taupo in 1969, and was subsequently staged in Canterbury, before moving back to the North Island in 1971.The rally was included as a round of the World Championship in 1977...
, the Scotman
Scotland
Scotland is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Occupying the northern third of the island of Great Britain, it shares a border with England to the south and is bounded by the North Sea to the east, the Atlantic Ocean to the north and west, and the North Channel and Irish Sea to the...
's team-mate and childhood idol, 1981
1981 World Rally Championship season
The 1981 World Rally Championship season was the ninth season of the Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile World Rally Championship . The season consisted of 12 rallies...
World Rally Champion, Ari Vatanen
Ari Vatanen
Ari Pieti Uolevi Vatanen is a Finnish rally driver turned politician and Member of the European Parliament 1999–2009. Vatanen won the World Rally Championship drivers' title in 1981 and the Paris Dakar Rally four times....
of Finland, went on to finish second in the debut rally of the first ever factory Impreza. New recruit for the following season, 1990
1990 World Rally Championship season
The 1990 World Rally Championship season was the 18th season of the FIA World Rally Championship. The season consisted of 12 rallies. The drivers' world championship was won by Carlos Sainz in a Toyota Celica GT-Four, ahead of Didier Auriol and Juha Kankkunen...
and 1992 World Champion, Carlos Sainz
Carlos Sainz
Carlos Sainz Cenamor is a Spanish rally driver. He won the World Rally Championship drivers' title with Toyota in 1990 and 1992, and finished runner-up four times...
brought the Impreza its inaugural victory on the 1994 Acropolis Rally.
The Impreza brought Subaru
Subaru
; is the automobile manufacturing division of Japanese transportation conglomerate Fuji Heavy Industries .Subaru is internationally known for their use of the boxer engine layout popularized in cars by the Volkswagen Beetle and Porsche 911, in most of their vehicles above 1500 cc as well as...
three consecutive WRC constructors' titles (1995–1997, the latter season the first for the newly introduced World Rally Car
World Rally Car
World Rally Car is a term used to describe racing automobiles built to the specification set by the FIA, the international motorsports governing body, and used to compete in the outright class of the World Rally Championship...
class) and a driver's championship for McRae in 1995, the late Richard Burns
Richard Burns
Richard Alexander Burns was an English rally driver. He was born in Reading, Berkshire. He was the 2001 World Rally Champion, having previously finished runner-up in the series in 1999 and 2000. He also helped Mitsubishi to the world manufacturers' title in 1998, and Peugeot in 2002...
in 2001, and the Norwegian
Norway
Norway , officially the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic unitary constitutional monarchy whose territory comprises the western portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula, Jan Mayen, and the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard and Bouvet Island. Norway has a total area of and a population of about 4.9 million...
, Petter Solberg
Petter Solberg
Petter "Hollywood" Solberg , from Spydeberg in Østfold, Norway, is a professional rally driver. He debuted in the World Rally Championship in 1998 and was signed by the Ford factory team in 1999...
in 2003.
Another evolution of the Impreza WRC made its debut in the 2007 Corona Rally Mexico. Unfortunately, the team had several major problems with reliability as the car experienced mechanical difficulties in almost every rally from its first.
Subaru debuted an Impreza WRC in hatchback form for the first time from the 2008
2008 World Rally Championship season
The 2008 World Rally Championship season was the 36th season of the FIA World Rally Championship. The season consisted of 15 rallies and began on January 24, with the 2008 Monte Carlo Rally....
Acropolis Rally onwards, on which event Solberg scored a second place finish.
On 16 December 2008 Subaru announced that it would withdraw from the World Rally Championship
World Rally Championship
The World Rally Championship is a rallying series organised by the FIA, culminating with a champion driver and manufacturer. The driver's world championship and manufacturer's world championship are separate championships, but based on the same point system. The series currently consists of 13...
due to economic problems.
However, the Subaru Rally Team USA is still competing in the Rally America National Championship. Also, there are still several teams using Subaru models in the Intercontinental Rally Challenge.
Safety
In Australia, the 1993-2004 Subaru Impreza was assessed in the Used Car Safety Ratings 2006 as providing "average" protection for its occupants in the event of a crash.In frontal-offset and side crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety in the United States, the second-generation Impreza earned "Good" ratings. 2005-2007 models also earned a "Good" rating for rear crash protection (head restraint design) placing it at the top of IIHS small car ratings.
The third generation MY2008 Impreza continued the tradition and also earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety highest rating for "Good" in each individual test, earning an overall score of "Good".
The third generation MY2008 Impreza hatchback received five stars (34.66 out of 37 points) for occupant protection and a four star pedestrian rating under testing by ANCAP.
Awards and acknowledgments
The Impreza was WheelsWheels magazine
Wheels is an Australian automotive magazine published monthly by ACP Magazines. The publication is well-renowned by Australian car enthusiasts...
magazine's Car of the Year
Car of the Year
Car of the Year is a phrase usually considered to have been invented by Motor Trend magazine in the 1950s for their annual award for best American automobile...
for 2000. Car and Driver
Car and Driver
Car and Driver is an American automotive enthusiast magazine. Its total circulation is 1.31 million. It is owned by Hearst Magazines, who purchased prior owner Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. in 2011...
Magazine named the North American market WRX to its prestigious 10-best
Car and Driver Ten Best
Car and Driver magazine annually nominates a list of what it considers the Ten Best cars and Five Best trucks.All production vehicles for sale in that calendar year are considered with these restrictions:# The vehicle must be on sale by January...
list in 2002, with a follow-up performance in 2003.
External links
- Subaru Impreza Official Page
- Official Subaru websites: America, Japan, and Australia