Subaru Impreza WRX

The Subaru Impreza WRX is the turbocharged version of the Impreza. As all Subarus, the members of the Impreza line are all-wheel drive vehicles that come both as sedan and wagon.

The WRX quickly showed its virtues and became a popular choice for sport cars enthusiasts wherever it is sold. Most experts agree in considering performance and handling its main strong points.

The WRX was originally introduced in 1992 in Japan only, and then in Australia and Europe but America had to wait until 2002. The first WRX came equipped with a turbocharged flat-4 2.0L Subaru Boxer engine that was later expanded to 2.5L.

The main differences with the base Impreza, the WRX has wider low-profile tires and larger disc brakes and also firmer and better suspension.

Subaru presented the all-new 2008 Impreza WRX STI at the 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show.

This new model features a 2.5-liter intercooled turbocharged Boxer engine. This jewel delivers 305 horsepower (SAE) at 6,000 rpm, whereas torque output is at 290 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm.

Compared to the previous model, the 2008 got a 12 hp increase in power. Another news is the Dual Active Valve Control System (Dual AVCS). The increase in power does not mean less environmental commitment: the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX STI still gets the Bin 5 Tier 2-Federal (EPA) and LEV2-California Tier 2/Bin 5 emissions certification.

The new Impreza WRX STI also got the exclusive Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a mechanism now integrated with the Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control.

There is also a new suspension with special STI tuning, also a Brembo Performance Brake System with ventilated 4-wheel Super Sport anti-lock (ABS) disc brakes, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). To make it even better, new special chassis reinforcements and new double-wishbone rear suspension converted this already super car into a truly top-notch Rally street machine.

Regarding body restyling, the new Impreza WRX STI shows an aggressive and sporty body look with slightly bulged fenders and rear quarter panels. The dynamics of the Vehicle is represented with the
rear gate-mounted spoiler and aerodynamic ground effects. This way, the Impreza's competitive figure in motor sports racing is reinforced. Other new features include functional hood scoop, functional brake-cooling air intakes, functional engine heat outlets, high-intensity discharge (HID) low beams, and fog light insert covers.

New tires make sure the added power gets properly delivered to the ground. A five-spoke 18 x 8.5-inch wheels and Dunlop SP600 245/40R18 tires are now included. You can also choose the 18 x 8.5 in. BBS forged aluminum-alloy wheels.

The interior is impressive too. Automatic climate control system with cabin air filtration, standard AM/FM premium stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and 10 speakers with Radio Broadcast Data System capability. There is also an optional navigation system plus video jacks for portable gaming devices, and pre-wired for XM or SIRIUS® Satellite Radio.

Standard new side-curtain airbags are also included as well as the new Incline Start Assist feature. This two components adds to the other standard features of the Impreza WRX STI.

A few numbers on acceleration and braking times for the 2008 Impreza WRX:

0 - 30 (sec): 1.9
0 - 45 (sec): 3.7
0 - 60 (sec): 5.9
0 - 75 (sec): 9.1
1/4 Mile (sec @ mph): 14.5 @ 94.4
30 - 0 (ft): 31
60 - 0 (ft): 121