Subaru Impreza WRX

Subaru Impreza WRX
Overview
Manufacturer	Subaru
Production	1992–present
Assembly	Ota, Tokyo, Japan
Body and chassis
Class	Sport compact
Layout	Front engine, four-wheel drive
Chronology
Predecessor	Subaru Legacy RS

For the high-performance version of the Impreza WRX, see the Subaru Impreza WRX STI

The Subaru Impreza WRX, is a turbocharged version of the Subaru Impreza, an all-wheel drive automobile. It is available as a sedan or wagon. The WRX has become a popular choice for automobile enthusiasts wherever it is sold for its performance and handling.

Originally introduced in 1992 in Japan, then shortly afterwards in Australia and Europe, the WRX had a turbocharged flat-4 2.0L (then later a 2.5L), Subaru Boxer engine. Compared to the base Impreza, the WRX has wider low-profile tires, larger brakes, and firmer, higher quality suspension components.

The Impreza WRX was first sold in North America in the 2002 model year.

GC chassis (1992-2000)

There were 6 noted versions of the WRX. The STI versions were marketed with consecutive numbers. Another way to tell the version of a WRX was to look at the chassis code. All WRX sold between 1992 and 2000 have the beginning chassis code of GC8 then followed by a letter from A to G.

Japan-spec

First generation
Overview
Production	1992-2000
Body and chassis
Body style	2-door coupe 4-door sedan 5-door wagon
Related	Subaru Impreza Subaru Forester
Powertrain
Engine	1.8L H4 2.0L H4
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2240 mm (99.2 in)
Length	4375 mm (172.2 in)
Width	1705 mm (67.1 in)
Height	1410 mm (55.5 in)

GC8A (1992/1993)

The WRX debuts in November 1992 with 240 PS (177 kW) at 6000 rpm with 31 kg·m (304 N·m) at 5000 rpm. It comes with 15 inch wheels. Both front and rear brake rotors are ventilated disks. The vehicle has a curb weight of Template:Auto kg. The center differential is a viscous coupling type. The rear LSD is a viscous type. The WRX Type RA (marketing has made usage of the RA acronym in various ways; Record Attempt is the current usage. "R = Racing, A = Group A, the FIA racing class the WRC Impreza competes in" has also been confirmed by Subaru of Japan; the correspondence can be seen on the discussion board for this article) is a stripped down version of the WRX for people to purchase for motorsports. It does not have many "creature comforts" such as air-conditioning or a radio. The car also lacks anti-lock brakes. The WRX Type RA has the same mechanical specifications as the WRX except it had a weight reduction to Template:Auto kg. The WRX Type RA steering wheel is a 3 spoke leather-wrapped wheel from Nardi.

GC8B (1994)

October 1993 introduces the 1994MY WRX changes so it only produces 220 PS (152 kW) at 6000 rpm with 28.5 kg·m (279 N·m) at 3500 rpm. The wheels stay the same size. The rear rotor is changed to a solid disk. The vehicle gains Template:Auto kg to a total curb weight of Template:Auto kg.

GC8C (9/1995-9/1996)

In November 1994, the WRX had a power increase to 260 PS (191 kW) at 6500 rpm with 31.5 kg·m (309 N·m) at 5000 rpm. The wheel diameters were increased to 16 inches and brake rotors were both changed to ventilated disks. With these modifications, the curb weight decreased to Template:Auto kg. The WRX Type RA has the same mechanical upgrades and power rating, but only has a curb weight of Template:Auto kg.

GC8D (9/1996-9/1997)

The 1996MY WRX debuts on January 1996. The WRX design received minimal mechanical changes, but a WRX V-Limited Edition was introduced to celebrate the success of the Impreza WRC car in the FIA WRC. It is mechanically the same to the WRX but has a curb weight of Template:Auto kg. The V-limited cars are painted in World Rally Blue.

GC8E (9/1997-9/1998)

In September 1996, the WRX was updated with new styling. The 1997MY WRX now has a power rating of 280 PS (206 kW) at 6500 rpm with 33.5 kg·m (329 N·m) at 4000 rpm. The car now weighs Template:Auto kg. The WRX Type RA weighs Template:Auto kg.

GC8F (9/1998-9/1999)

The 1999MY WRX is introduced on September 1998. The power rating remains the same as the previous year's model, but the torque is increased to 34.5 kg·m (338 N·m) at 4000 rpm due to improvements on the engine design (the engine was dubbed as Boxer Phase II engine). The car now has a curb weight of Template:Auto kg. The WRX Type RA receives the same power upgrades and has a weight increase of Template:Auto kg to Template:Auto kg.

GC8G (9/1999-9/2000)

The last version of the WRX is introduced on September 1999. There is no change in the mechanical specifications. Added features are newly-designed alloy wheels, color-coded mirrors and door handles, remote central locking, intermittent wipers with a timer and map lights. Red Mica had replaced Bright Red.

UK-spec

GC8A (1992)

The WRX was introduced as the Impreza GT. It came with Template:Auto bhp.

GC8E (1997)

The Subaru Impreza WRX GT's interior has been updated and the face has been updated.

UK-spec Special Variants

"1.8GL" (1993)

Subaru imported six Type RS's, the development car that led to the stripped-out Type RA. For UK car certification reasons they were registered as 1.8GL's despite having big turbos attached to 2 litre engines. Three cars went to Prodrive; three were retained by Subaru UK and were subsequently sold.

Series McRae (June 1995)

200 cars in Mica Blue with 16" gold alloys were produced to celebrate Colin McRae's success and, in particular, winning the 1994 RAC Rally. He went on to take the driver's title and win Subaru their first WRC manufacturer's title in 1995. The cost was £22,999.

Catalunya (March 1997)

200 cars in Black Mica with red flecks riding on gold alloy wheels were made to celebrate winning Subaru's second WRC manufacturer's title at the Rally of Spain (Catalunya). The car was sold for £21,610. A similar car in Blue Mica was sold in Italy.

                               ====April 1998>====

300 Cars In Blue Mica And Gold Alloys, to celebrate their third manufacturer's WRX title. Cost $22,995.

RB5 (1999)

Subaru Impreza RB5

To celebrate the return of British driver Richard Burns to the rally team in car number 5, a limited edition of 444 cars in "Steel Blue" (aka Cool Grey) was created. The basic £24,995 model had little more than cosmetic differences, but most had the WR Sport Performance Pack, an option consisting of a new ECU and exhaust for Template:Auto PS and Template:Auto Nm torque. The price for the higher spec car was £27,000. [1]. There was also an optional Prodrive suspension pack that cost extra again. Standard Impreza Turbos could be fitted with the suspension pack and cosmetics to create a 'Prodrive WR Sport'.

GD chassis (2001-2007)

Second generation
Overview
Production	2001-2007
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door sedan 5-door station wagon
Related	Subaru Impreza Subaru Forester Subaru Impreza WRX STi Saab 9-2X
Powertrain
Engine	2.0L 227 hp H4 (2001-05) 2.5L 230 hp H4 (2006-07)
Transmission	4-speed automatic 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	Template:Auto in
Length	Template:Auto in (2002-03) Template:Auto in (2004-05) Template:Auto in (2006-07)
Width	Template:Auto in (2002-03 & 2006-07 Sedan) Template:Auto in (2004-05 Sedan) Template:Auto in (Wagon)
Height	Template:Auto in (Sedan) Template:Auto in (2001-05 Wagon) Template:Auto in (2006-07 Wagon)

In 2001, the Impreza line received a complete update. The chassis received a 120% increase in torsional stiffness. The version nomenclature was dropped from the name. To distinguish between the years, Japanese and other auto-enthusiasts often refer to the chassis as GDA (the WRX had an 'A' where as the STi had an 'B') revision A to G where G is the current (2007) version. The wagon chassis is given a GGA code.

The WRX has received two styling updates. The exterior "bug eyed" styling was widely regarded as somewhat unattractive, so Subaru introduced a mild facelift (often called blob eyes or peanut eyes) of the front end in the 2002 Paris Auto Show. A third update was introduced in mid-2005, including the performance models, with the controversial "jet intake and wings" grille first debuted on the Subaru R1 keicar, along with new headlights (sometimes referred to as hawk eyes or pig nose and also "vag eye" due to the effect on the grille), taillights, and bumpers. Subaru states that they chose this style to go back to their heritage, paying homage to their grandfathered company, the Nakajima Aircraft Company

Japan-Spec

Rev. A (2001)

August 2000 brings the 2001MY WRX NB sedan. It has an EJ205 with AVCS coupled with a IHI VF30 turbocharger. The engine produces 250 PS (184 kW) at 6000 rpm with 34 kg·m (333 N·m) at 3600 rpm. The wheels are 16 inch in diameter. The car uses 2 pot/1 pot front and rear brakes. The front brake rotors are ventilated while the rear are solid disks. It has a torsen rear LSD and a 4.44 final drive ratio. The transmission has close-ratio gears unique to Subaru of Japan at that point in time. The car has a curb weight of Template:Auto kg.

Rev. B (2002)

The 2002MY WRX NB sedan debuts on September 2001. The mechanical specifications are similar to the previous year's model but the curb weight has been increased to Template:Auto kg.

Rev. C (2003)

The WRX NB-R sedan is released on November 2002. The power and torque ratings are the same as the previous year. The wheel diameters are increased to 17" in size. The rear brake rotor is changed to a ventilated disk, leaving the car to use only ventilated disks for braking. The car has 4 pot/2 pot front and rear brakes. The rear wing is on wing risers. The car now weighs Template:Auto kg.

Rev. D (2004)

The WRX line receives a body exterior update and an improved transmission.

Rev. E (2005)

The WRX WR-limited is introduced. The car receives an STI spoiler and an STI front chin. There is a WR-stickered titanium shift knob. The wheels are changed for STI, gold-colored Rays-sourced wheels.

Rev. F (2006)

The WRX has an option to receive the same spoiler as the WRX STI and receives gold 17" x 7" wheels. The WRX has a viscous rear LSD now.

Rev. G (2007)

The car is mechanically the same as the previous Japan-spec revision.

United States-spec

Rev. A (March 3 2001)

WRX's initial release date

Rev. B (2002)

North America receives its first Impreza WRX models. They are equipped with a EJ205 engine rated at Template:Auto hp at 6000 rpm with Template:Auto ft·lbf at 4000 rpm. Unlike the Japanese EJ205, the US-spec engine uses a Mitsubishi TD04-13T turbocharger unit. In stock form, it reaches a peak 13.5 psi of boost. The seats are the same as the basic J-spec Impreza. The wheels are cast 16” x 6.5” version of the J-spec WRX NB wheels while the brakes are 2-piston/1-piston front and rear with the front rotors being ventilated disks. 2002MY WRXs came with brake duct plates that guided the air in the front bumper vent to the wheel well.Brake Duct Pictures and Part numbers The gear ratios are the standard export models, but the final drive is a 3.9:1 ratio. The rear LSD is a viscous coupling type. The steering rack has a ratio of 16.5:1. The 4 gear electronic automatic transmission (4EAT) WRXs have a Variable Torque Distribution AWD system instead of the convention viscous coupling center differential. VTD employs an electronically controlled hydraulic transfer clutch and a planetary gear center differential to distribute power in a 45:55 split between the front and rear axles under normal circumstances. The VTD system uses multiple sensors to measure front and rear driveshaft speeds, throttle position and gear selection. Then it actively transfers power accordingly between the front and rear wheels for optimum traction and handling. The car weighs Template:Auto lb.

Rev. C (2003)

There are few changes from Rev. B. The gears are changed to RA-width gears (1 mm increase in size) to increase durability of the transmission. There is also a valve that prevents “drop-clutch” starts in an effort to reduce the number of shattered gear boxes from abusive AWD launching. The ignition ring is now illuminated with green lighting. The rear stabilizer bar has been reduced from Template:Auto mm to Template:Auto mm. Early 2003MY WRXs had brake duct plates. At the end of calendar year 2002, the brake duct plates were no longer equipped on the WRXs. A shorter metal fuel pipe and longer connector hose were implemented under the intake manifold to avoid fuel leaks at freezing temperatures.

Rev. D (2004)

The WRX received the same Peter Stevens-designed face lift that rest of the Imprezas received. The WRX uses the same contoured seats as the 2004 US-spec WRX STI. The WRX is equipped with multi-phase valve struts to improve ride quality while retaining good handling. Tach is moved to center and speedo is on the right now.

Rev. E (2005)

The WRX receives an updated interior, body colour rocker panels, black painted headlamp bezels, and wheels that were previously seen on the base US-spec Legacy and a single-port exhaust.

Note: Saab released its 9-2X Aero, from its 9-2X line, which is essentially a re-skinned Impreza WRX Wagon of the same model year. It is manufactured by Fuji Heavy Industries, Ltd.

Rev. F (2006)

2006-2007 Subaru WRX sedan (US)

2006-2007 Subaru WRX wagon (US)

In 2006, the WRX receives a refresh of design. There are three trims available, WRX TR (Tuner Ready), WRX, and Limited. The steering rack is updated for improved steering feel and the steering rack ratio has been changed to 15.0:1. The EJ205 engine is replaced by an EJ255 engine, a 2.5-liter engine shared with the US-spec WRX STI but with different engine heads (still retaining AVCS). The turbocharger remains the same unit as on the 2002-2005MY US-spec WRXs, but now only peaks at 11.6 psi of boost. The first gear in the transmission receives dual-ring synchros to improve downshifts from 2nd to 1st.

The power is reported as Template:Auto hp at 5600 rpm with Template:Auto ft·lbf at 3600 rpm. These numbers are likely underrated as shown by multiple independent dynomometer tests. This is further proven by further comparisons. If the 2005MY US-spec WRX had Template:Auto ft·lbf of torque, then the 2006MY US-spec WRX's Template:Auto ft·lbf should show a minimal amount of increase on the dynamometer. However, tests have shown that a 2006MY US-spec WRX puts out a higher peak torque rating than a 2005MY US-spec WRX with Stage 2 Cobb Tuning (turboback exhaust and engine control unit reflash). Hence the conclusion that the car is underrated. The car’s curb weight is Template:Auto lb for the WRX TR, Template:Auto lb for the WRX, and 3240 for the WRX Limited.

For 2006 the Subaru Impreza WRX received a complete front-end re-design, boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses, a three-section mesh-type grill, and distinguished new tail lamp clusters. The biggest change is the Template:Auto horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged, intercooled engine. It replaces the 2.0-liter engine used since the WRX model's introduction. The larger-displacement engine produces Template:Auto ft·lbf. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm, compared to Template:Auto ft·lbf. at 4,000 rpm for the previous WRX. Performance is improved in all speed ranges, with greater emphasis on low-end and mid-range torque. The 2.5-liter WRX engine shares architecture and technology with the WRX STI engine, including Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology and an Electronic Throttle Control system. 2006 Impreza WRX models gain significant chassis and braking system enhancements. Aluminum front suspension lower L-arms reduce unsprung weight to enhance steering response. (The rear suspension gained forward aluminum lateral links in the 2005 model year.) On all WRX models, new 7-spoke 17 x 7-inch aluminum-alloy wheels replace the previous 5 spoke 16 x 6.5-inch wheels. Tires, likewise, are 215/45ZR17 versus 205/55R16 before. The more powerful brake system employs Template:Auto in vented front discs and now uses four-piston calipers instead of the previous versions two-piston calipers. The rear brakes are all new, with Template:Auto in ventilated discs replacing the previous Template:Auto in solid discs, and two-piston calipers replacing single-piston calipers. Painted red and featuring the SUBARU name in white, the calipers also make a strong visual statement.

Rev. G (2007)

Ikuo Mori takes the place of Kyoji Takenaka as President and CEO of Fuji Heavy Industries.

As a cost-cutting effort, the WRX has its aluminum suspension reverted to steel-cast pieces. The WRX and Limited trim levels receive an auxiliary audio port next to the cigarette lighter and MP3 CD playback.

In an effort to reduce torque load on the five speed manual transmission Subaru made the following changes to the gear ratios of the 5-speed manual transmission:

2007: 1st=3.454, 2nd=2.062, 3rd=1.448, 4th=0.880, 5th=0.780, with a 3.0 final drive

2006: 1st=3.454, 2nd=1.947, 3rd=1.366, 4th=0.972, 5th=0.738, with a 3.7 final drive

Asia-spec

Depending on the country, one may be able to buy either Oceania-spec, Europe-spec or US-spec WRXs. There are no models unique to the Asian market outside Japan.

UK-spec

RB320 In 2006 Subaru UK release the limited edition Subaru Impreza RB320 in honor of the late Richard Burns, who passed away in 2005 from cancer. Richard won the 2001 WRC Championship for SWRT.

The Rb320 was available only in Obsidian Black, also features bespoke 18 inch alloy wheels and specially developed Prodrive suspension comprising Bilstein dampers, a sports spring kit with revised rear anti-roll bar and a ride height lowered by Template:Auto mm at the front and Template:Auto mm at the rear.

Also standard was a chrome mesh front grille, front lip spoiler, quickshift gearchange, side sill plates and RB320-branded gear knob, carpet mats and exclusive exterior badging. Each owner will also receive an individually numbered black alloy tax disc holder.

The Prodrive Performance Pack (PPP) boosts power to Template:Auto PS at 6,000 rpm with torque leaping to Template:Auto ft·lbf at 3,700 rpm. This reduces the 0-60 mph time to 4.8 seconds with a 0-100 mph time of 12.2 seconds.

Oceania-spec

Rev. A (2001)

The WRX has an EJ205 rated at Template:Auto PS @ 6000 rpms. It carries 17” x 7” wheels and has 4-piston/2-piston front and rear brakes with ventilated disk rotors all around.

Rev. B (2002)

Due to complaints of the slower acceleration of the GD-chassis WRX compared to the GC-chassis WRX, the gear ratios are changed to the same specifications as the Japanese-spec WRX to improve acceleration.

Rev. D (2004)

The WRX received the same Peter Stevens-designed facelift that rest of the Imprezas received. During 2005 a limited edition Subaru Impreza WRX WRP10 was produced, but limited to 200 vehicles.

Europe-spec

The Prodrive Performance Pack (PPP) is an official accessory for UK GD-chassis WRX's. It evolved from the WR Sport pack fitted to some RB5s. The 2007 version costs £1700 including VAT and fitting, raising power output from Template:Auto PS to Template:Auto PS and torque to Template:Auto Nm.

Rev. A (2001)

The WRX has an EJ205 rated at 218 PS (160 kW) @ 6000 rpms. It carries 17” x 7” wheels and has 4-piston/2-piston front and rear brakes.

Rev. B (2002)

Due to complaints of the slower acceleration of the GD-chassis WRX compared to the GC-chassis WRX, the gear ratios are changed to the same specifications as the Japanese-spec WRX to improve acceleration.

Rev. D (2004)

The WRX received the same Peter Stevens-designed facelift that rest of the Imprezas received. The engine powerplant was improved to 225 PS (165 kW). Some cost reductions were made, such as downgrading the stereo.

Rev. F (2006)

2006: Europe receives WRXs with the EJ255. The power output is 230 PS(169 kW) @ 5600 rpm with 32.6 kg*m(320N*m) @ 3600 rpm. The car weighs Template:Auto kg. The final drive ratio on this car is 4.111:1. The car also received the same facelift as the other markets.

Subaru Impreza WRX design by Chan Chee Woei　

GC chassis comparison to the GD chassis

Pros

Subaru claims that the GD chassis is 148 percent and 82 percent stiffer in torsional and beam rigidity, respectively, than the GC chassis. This stiffness is primarily due to the addition of a steel "ring" which encircles the cabin at the B-pillar. While the stiffness was increased for passenger safety, it has the added benefit of providing more stability for motorsports events.

In terms of safety, the GD chassis scored much higher than the GC chassis and earned a "Good" rating (highest mark) from the IIHS's offset crash test. 4 stars front driver, 5 star front passenger and 4 star side safety ratings from the NHTSA. In a magazine article from the Dec. 2005 Firehouse magazine (a periodical written and made for firefighters), Ron Moore writes how it is well-known that the Impreza chassis has great protection in its B-pillars. This side structure has 8 layers of high-strength, high-tension steel including a round steel bar running through the middle. The author notes how drivers simply walk away from horrific side-impact accidents.

Cons

The GD chassis gains nearly Template:Auto kg in weight over the GC chassis. Most of this weight comes in the form of chassis stiffening as the car was made to meet every country's crash standards. The weight also hampers the cars maneuverability, transistions and turn-in capabilities. The GC Imprezas were notable for being very lightweight despite having AWD. The WRX Type R STI Version VI using the GC chassis, at Template:Auto kg, was lighter than the competiting Mazda RX-7 type RZ (Template:Auto kg) and Honda NSX type S Zero (1270 kg). In this fashion, the GC chassis has a better advantage.

The author of the forementioned article also notes that the Jaws of Life need to cut the Subaru's B-pillars at certain points in order to cut through the car frame. This information was not widespread before, so there have been many incidences where firefighters could not cut the B-pillars due to their structural integrity. This may become a concern if the driver or passengers need to be cut out of the vehicle quickly.

GH(?) chassis (2008 - MY08)

Third generation
Overview
Production	2008-
Body and chassis
Body style	4 door sedan 5 door hatchback
Related	Subaru Impreza Subaru Impreza WRX STi
Powertrain
Engine	2.5L 224 hp, 226 ft·lbf (306 Nm) H4
Transmission	4-speed automatic(w/SPORTSHIFT manual mode) 5-speed manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	103.1 in (2620 mm)
Length	hatchback: 173.8 in (4415 mm) sedan: 180.3 in (4580 mm)
Width	sedan: 68.5 in (1740 mm)
Height	58.1 in (1475 mm)

The next generation Impreza WRX photos have been released earlier than the embargo deadline by Road & Track. The official unveiling took place at the 2007 New York Autoshow in April 2007. A 5-door hatch and a sedan version will be available. The engine used is still the EJ255. Peak power and torque as the same, but the peak power will output at 5600 rpm and the peak torque delivery will be at 2800 rpm. The sedan version has a two exhaust outlets while the hatchback will have one exhaust outlet on the right. The car is based on a shortened Legacy platform. The front suspension uses a MacPherson strut setup while the rear is a new double wishbone suspension. The steering ratio will be 15:1. The interior will borrow from the Legacy interior. The US-spec WRX will revert back to a 2-piston/1-piston sliding calipers (dropping the 4-piston/2-piston fixed caliper setup). The calipers and rotor setup are the same found on the BL5-chassis US-spec Legacy 2.5GT and Spec B. The wheels will be 17" x 7" and will wear 205/50 R17 all season tires. Aluminum parts have been dropped due to the rising costs. The gas tank has grown from 15.9 gallons to 16.9 gal. The car's weight has not substantially increased and will be Template:Auto lb for the 5 speed manual and Template:Auto lb for the 4 speed automatic. According to leaked documents posted on NASIOC.com, the Impreza WRX will be sold to the public starting July 2007 as a 2008 model year car in Canada, and in the United States in October 2007. During the New York Autoshow unveiling of the next generation WRX, a spokesman announced that the next generation Impreza WRC will be based on the hatch version of the car. Bluetooth functionality was expected, but is not present in the GPS-equipped September 2007 cars although the manual for the navigation unit contains a chapter on phone connectivity.

2008 WRX U.S. Spec

• Template:Auto hp 4-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine
• Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive
• 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmission with SPORTSHIFT manual control
• Double-wishbone rear suspension
• Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC)
• Brake Assist
• 17" 8-spoke aluminum alloy wheels
• Electroluminescent gauges
• Touch-screen GPS navigation system (optional)
• 10-speaker audio system with single-disc in-dash CD player satellite radio capability (or 1disc stacker without sat nav)
• Auxiliary inputs for portable multimedia devices
• 60/40-split flat-folding rear seats
• Reinforcement Frame body structure

Motorsports

2006 Impreza Rally Car

Stephane Sarrazin driving a Subaru Impreza WRC on the Monte Carlo Rally

Mock-up of 2008 Subaru Impreza WRC as shown at the 2007 Sydney Motor Show

Subaru Impreza 2007 WRC

Subaru Rally Team revealed the new 2007 Impreza WRC Car on Friday 2nd March with just seven days before the Rally of Mexico. Petter Solberg and Chris Atkinson have big hopes for the new Impreza after their not-so-impressive 2006 season in which they could not even win a single rally. As the teams left their English base heading towards what will hopefully be a competitive weekend for rally Mexico they released details of the 2007 Impreza that will be competing for the rest of the season. From the outside the New Impreza doesn’t look that different. Most of the work has been carried out on improving the performance and creating a car with more balanced tyre wear. The team has worked with engineers and designers in Japan focusing on weight distribution, suspension and differential set ups and new dampers have been used to improve road holding. The work on the new engine has been aimed at weight reduction. The work has included producing a new intercooler design with a turbo air inlet now going through the bonnet scoop. The FIA’s rules about aerodynamics have led to the removal of several apertures on the front and side of the bodywork which have been partially blanked off. The airflow under the bonnet now emerges through air exit holes on the side rather than in the middle of the bonnet. The Impreza’s hydraulic control of the centre differential has been redesigned to improve its effectiveness and the exhaust has been moved to exit out of the rear bumper. The non-stop Subaru team has already started to design the '08 car but no decisions of when it will make its debut have been decided.

FIA

Currently only the higher powered version of the WRX, the WRX STI is homologated for Group N rallying. However, the S9 and newer models of the Impreza WRC car have a GDA chassis code. This fact signifies that the Impreza WRC cars are built off the WRX chassis rather than the STi chassis.

Rally America

In the PGT class the WRX has overall average performance.

2004: The WRX takes last place in PGT class.
2005: The WRX takes last place in PGT class.
2006: The WRX stands in the top 50 positions of PGT class.

SCCA Rallycross

In this new sport, the WRX is a common car found in all of the AWD classes. In 2006, WRX STI takes first and second place in Stock All-Wheel Drive (SA)

Autocrossing

SCCA Solo Events

2002 to 2005MY US-spec WRXs are allowed to compete in D Stock (DS), Street Touring Extreme (STX), E Street Prepared (ESP) and Street Modified (SM) classes.

2006 to 2007MY US-spec WRXs are allowed to compete in D Stock (DS), Street Touring Ultra (STU), E Street Prepared (ESP) and Street Modified (SM) classes.

The 2002 to 2005MY WRXs has been dominating the STX class. Since the inception of the Street Touring Extreme class, the WRX has taken first place at all national Solo competitions.

2002: Tom Hoppe takes a 2002 WRX sedan to a first place finish at the ProSolo Topeka Finale in DS.

2003: At ProSolo Topeka Finale, Keith Casey takes a 2002 WRX wagon to a first place finish in Street Touring Extreme (STX) class. Tom Hoppe takes a 2002 WRX sedan to second place finish in STX at the same event. At the Topeka Solo National Championship, Keith Casey drove his 2002 WRX wagon to first place finish.

2004: At ProSolo Topeka Finale, the 5 top positions in STX are taken by WRXs. Josh Sortor (2002 WRX sedan), Tom Hoppe (2002 WRX Sedan) and Mike King (2004 WRX sedan) took 1st, 2nd and 3rd place respectively. At the TireRack SCCA Solo National Championships, Tom Hoppe (2002 WRX Sedan) and Mike King (2004 WRX sedan) took 1st and 3rd place respectively in STX.

2005: At ProSolo Topeka Finale, Josh Sortor and Mike King take 1st and 3rd place in STX. Josh Sortor takes 1st place in TireRack Solo National Championships in STX.

2006: The top 5 positions in STX at ProSolo Topeka Finale are taken by WRXs. Billy Brooks (2003), Jeff Barco (2005) and Greg McCance (2002) took 1st, 2nd and 3rd place respectively. TireRack Solo National Championships have the top 3 positions in STX taken by Steve O’Blenes (1st), Jeff Barco (2nd) and Chris Fenter (3rd).

Road racing

FIA

Currently only the higher powered version of the WRX, the WRX STI, is homologated for racing.

Open Track Challenge

2002: Gary Sheehan drives a 2002 WRX to win all 7 races in the Unlimited 3 (U3) class and thus win overall in U3. The car places 5th overall.

NASA U.S. Touring Car Championship

2001: Gary Sheehan debuts in a WRX to ultimately gain 2nd place.

2002: Gary Sheehan again drives the TeamSMR WRX to 2nd place.

2003: Gary Sheehan drives his WRX to 2nd place. In its final form under Gary Sheehan, the WRX is equipped with a competition swaybar kit from Hotchkis Tuning, Enkei RPF1 wheels, Cobb Tuning assembled engine, a white Delrin shift knob, C-west body kit, Cusco 35:65 torque split center differential, Kaaz front and rear LSDs, Vishnu Turboback exhaust, DMS50 coilovers, StopTech brakes and other miscellaneous upgrade parts.

2005: Brian Locke of GOTO Racing drives the WRX he purchases from Gary Sheehan to 2nd place. The WRX is refreshed and parts were changed out.

SCCA World Challenge

The WRX is classified in the Touring Car (TC) category.

2005: Irish Mike’s Racing (IMR) begins campaigning a WRX. The car manages a season high of 12th place.

2006: Irish Mike’s Racing campaigns the WRX for 2 races until it is demolished during a practice session. At this point Subaru of America pulls out its contigency funding. IMR pulls from the race due to lack of funding.

2007: Horsepower Research and Development (HRD) is prepping 2 WRXs to run in a few events for this season and the entire 2008 season.

SCCA Club Racing

As stated by the rule book, the 2002MY to 2004MY WRX and 2006MY WRX TR are placed in the Touring 3 category.

Availability

The WRX was originally sold only in Japan. The same year, it was made officially available in Oceania and Europe. In 2001, North America receives the first WRX as a GD-chassis for the 2002 model year.

Awards

The US-spec WRX was on Car and Driver magazine's Ten Best list for 2002 and 2003. A 2003 US-spec WRX won Best Motoring's first American Touge showdown.

In 2000 the Australian version of the Subaru Impreza, won the prestigious Australian car award, the Wheels Car of The Year.

In 2006, the EJ25 turbocharged variant engines were awarded International Engine of the Year. This engine is also used in the Subaru Forester XT, Subaru Legacy as well as the re-badged Saab 9-2X.

External links

• Official Subaru Website
• Official Subaru Impreza WRX Website
• Subaru World Rally Team
• 2008 Subaru WRX Motor Trend First Test