2006 NY Auto Show
The Impreza line has been restyled to reflect the new brand identity. The new Subaru signature front-end design for Impreza features a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company’s aircraft heritage, plus boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses. Sedan models feature revised wide-body fenders, while the wagons have their own flared fender design, as on the previous model.
The Impreza 2.5 RS models have been renamed 2.5 i, making their nomenclature consistent with the larger Subaru Legacy® models. Impreza 2.5 i and Outback® Sport models get a boost to 173 horsepower with the addition of the i-Active Valve Lift system and the Electronic Throttle Control system to their 2.5-liter Boxer engine. All Impreza models get a new dual-stage Subaru Advanced Airbag System. In addition, the Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models gain front seat head/chest side-impact air bags already provided in the WRX models.
The WRX series expands with a new, lower-priced WRX TR Sedan, along with the premium-level WRX Limited Sedan and WRX Limited Sport Wagon models that feature additional luxury amenities. All WRX models get a complete engine transplant for a significant boost in performance. A 230-horsepower 2.5-liter intercooled turbocharged engine replaces the 217-horsepower 2.0-liter engine. The larger-displacement engine produces 235 lb.-ft of peak torque at 3,600 rpm.
