by Robbie Wilke

Created on: March 07, 2007   Last Updated: April 23, 2007

In August 2006, I purchased a 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX. Since the 1990's, Subaru's Impreza Sedan has gained popularity in he rally and tuning cultures around the world. The Impreza has been a leading competitor in the World Rally Championship (WRC) ever since its release. Since then, Subaru has been adapting this powerful vehicle for both street and track use.

Subaru's design team made a big jump from 2005 to 2006 with the Subaru Impreza. The most noticeable featural change is the new grill design and one available size of hoodscoop which is the same on all models. There are five versions to choose from. There is the base Impreza 2.5i or 2.5 RS, Impreza WRX TR, Impreza WRX, Impreza WRX STI (which used to be STi), and the new Impreza WRX STI Limited Edition.

The base model Subaru Impreza RS/2.5i is powered by a Subaru's non-turbo 2.5 liter boxer engine. The power output is 173 horsepower. This is a 10 hp gain from the 2005 model. The Impreza is available as either a sedan or wagon. Like all Subaru's, a symmetrical all-wheel drive system is standard. Transmissions available are a 5- speed manual or a 4 speed automatic. Disc brakes also come standard.

The next model up, the Subaru Impreza WRX TR, contains a 230 horsepower, 2.5 liter turbo-charged boxer engine. The TR in its name stands for 'Tuner Ready.' The turbo-charged, all-wheel drive WRX has long been a favorite in targeting tuners and sport compact enthusiasts. With the addition of the 2.5 liter engine vs. the 2.0 liter engine, more torque has been added. More torque mean more power. The WRX TR has a 0-60 time of approximately 5.8 seconds. This vehicle tops out at a speed of 135 mph. It will tear through the quarter mile in a average time of 14.1 seconds with the help of the 5-speed manual transmission taken straight out of the 2005 WRX STi. A four speed automatic is also available, but after driving the manual, I suggest you go for the feel of tearing through the gears with your own hand and foot to the clutch.

The non-TR Subaru Impreza WRX has all the powertrain features of the TR. The only difference is luxury. This higher model comes with optional 6 CD Changer, Sunroof, and even headlight sprayers to wash off mud after a hard day of rally racing in the mud! The leather seats are also a nice touch.

The final, and most powerful Subaru ever made is the Subaru WRX STI. For 2006, the 2.5 liter, 300 horsepower. turbo-charged boxer engine has been reduced to 297 hp. Trust me, you will not feel the 3 horsepower difference

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