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SUBARU INTRODUCES THE 2004 IMPREZA WRX STi AT NORTH AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW
--"No-Compromise" The Most Powerful Subaru Ever Offered in North America--
DETROIT, Jan. 6, 2003 — Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the long-awaited 2004MY Impreza WRX STi, an ultra high-performance all-wheel drive sedan, at the North American International Auto Show. Based on the critically acclaimed Subaru Impreza WRX, Impreza WRX STi is completely re-engineered to provide world-class sports car levels of acceleration, handling and braking performance. Impreza WRX STi will serve as the performance flagship of the Subaru line when it arrives in dealerships this summer and will earn distinction as the most powerful Subaru ever offered for sale in North America. Be sure to check it out at Impreza.Subaru.com.
The Impreza WRX STi draws motorsports technology directly from Subaru expertise in World Rally Championship (WRC) competition, and is designed to appeal to the serious driving enthusiast. Impreza WRX STi is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC boxer engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. of peak torque, teamed exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. Power is transferred to all four wheels via a sophisticated Subaru All-Wheel Drive system designed to optimize performance in all conditions.
Introducing Subaru Tecnica International (STI)
STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Subaru, which offers the only exclusively All-Wheel Drive line of passenger cars and crossover-type vehicles in the United States, has been proving the performance and durability of its All-Wheel Drive technology in World Rally Championship competition since 1989.
Until now, STi-badged Subaru vehicles had been available only in select world markets. However, the success of the WRX in the U.S. prompted strong (and vocal) demand from American consumers for an even more extreme-performance version of this car.
As a result, the U.S.-market Impreza WRX STi gives up nothing compared to models offered in Europe, Japan and other markets and in some ways offers more performance. For example, the 2.5-liter turbocharged powerplant is the largest displacement engine ever installed in a WRX STi model and is exclusive to the North American market. This unique engine also provides strong torque characteristics at both low and high rpm.
Rally Tested, Road Ready
The Impreza WRX STi benefits from the redesigned front and rear styling of the 2004MY Impreza line. The expressive new design is the result of close consultation with Subaru STi engineers and the Subaru World Rally Team to improve air resistance, optimize lift force balance, maximize engine cooling and provide Impreza models with a bolder, more dynamic appearance. In its exterior design, Impreza WRX STi leaves no doubts about its performance potential -- a look that is equally functional. The enlarged hood scoop in the aluminum hood feeds outside air to the intercooler that is significantly larger than the unit found on Impreza WRX. A completely functional dual element rear spoiler -- which appears to be borrowed directly from the Subaru World Rally Car -- helps reduce lift and improve stability at high speed. Airflow is also managed via front side spoilers on the front bumper and STi side ground effects. The front fascia features four high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with smoke tinted lenses and distinctive STi fog light insert covers for a no-nonsense look. Large diameter Brembo® brakes are clearly visible between the spokes of the 17-inch lightweight aluminum- alloy BBS® wheels.
The 2.5-liter horizontally opposed ("boxer") four-cylinder engine is based on a specially reinforced "semi-closed deck" engine block with forged aluminum alloy pistons, forged high-carbon steel connecting rods and sodium-filled exhaust valves. This advanced powerplant incorporates Subaru AVCS (Active Valve Control System) variable valve timing technology to optimize the engine's volumetric efficiency throughout the rev band. It is the first application of this technology on a Subaru in North America. The large capacity intercooler includes a manually operated water spray feature to provide additional cooling.
Driver-Adjustable All-Wheel Drive
WRX STi is equipped with the brand's most performance-directed All-Wheel Drive system with DCCD (Driver Control Center Differential). In automatic mode, the computer varies the front/rear torque split automatically depending on driving conditions and driver input. In manual mode, the DCCD system allows the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution for different driving conditions.
Using a small control wheel on the car's center console, the driver can set the system to transfer as much as 65 percent of available torque to the rear wheels to increase handling agility. Impreza WRX STi employs a new Suretrac® limited-slip front differential and a mechanical limited-slip rear differential. The Suretrac differential is a gearless unit that responds to a torque differential between left and right wheels to increase traction and reduce understeer.
Form Follows Function
Inside are several reminders that Impreza WRX STi is a special vehicle. The sport-design front seats feature substantial side bolsters, an integrated head restraint design and an embroidered "STi" logo. The seats are upholstered in unique perforated blue Ecsaine® fabric with contrasting black knit bolsters, complemented by expressive blue floor carpeting. STI engineers also examined a wide range of measures to help reduce weight, eliminating items that did not enhance performance. As a result, Impreza WRX STi does not include a standard sound system. However, an optional sound system will be available at Subaru dealers. Other weight reduction measures include the use of lightweight rear window glass, aluminum control arms and forged aluminum wheels. Comfort features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks and power mirrors - amenities that an owner cannot add after the sale - are included as standard equipment.
A revised STi instrument gauge cluster places a 9,000-rpm tachometer in the center, complemented by a 160-mph speedometer, DCCD display, fuel and temperature gauges. Red LED indicators and an illuminated "STi" logo in the tachometer reinforce the sporty driving environment. Offering a preview the vehicle's performance potential, all the gauge needles swing to their maximum positions when the ignition is switched on, then fall back to their normal positions. All three primary gauges are trimmed with aluminum rings. A Subaru World Rally Team-designed black leather-wrapped MOMO® brand steering wheel with red upper stitching and black lower stitching and matching leather-wrapped parking brake handle with red stitching are also unique to Impreza WRX STi.
Competition-Proven Handling
A super-stiff Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with a hydroformed front subframe form the basis of the high-integrity Impreza platform. The 4-wheel independent suspension inherits technology from the Impreza World Rally Championship competition car, but has been strictly optimized in the WRX STi for high cornering performance on paved roads.
Compared to the standard WRX, the STi version has been lowered by 0.4-inch, yielding a lower center of gravity. New inverted struts in the front and rear suspension reduce unsprung vehicle weight and increase bending resistance for quicker and more consistent performance under hard cornering.
The WRX STi employs a quicker steering ratio than the standard WRX model - 15.0-to-1 compared to 16.5-to-1 for the WRX. As standard equipment, Subaru equips the WRX STi with 17 x 7.5-inch BBS aluminum-alloy wheels and 225/45 ZR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070 directional performance tires.
Brembo® Brakes with Super Sport ABS
Subaru has equipped the Impreza WRX STi with one of the most advanced and performance-optimized braking systems on the market today. The powerful Brembo Performance Brake System employs ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes to help ensure stopping power and consistency commensurate with the vehicle's extreme performance capability. The front discs measure 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilize four-piston, fixed-position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in diameter and 0.8-inch thick and make use of two-piston, fixed-position calipers.
A combination of Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and a new Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to reduce stopping distances and understeer when compared to conventional ABS systems. Conventional ABS systems control the rear wheels as a pair, reducing the braking force to both wheels when a loss of traction is detected at either wheel. Using input from a lateral g-sensor, Super Sport ABS can independently control the braking forces at each wheel, optimizing the braking ability during hard cornering - resulting in reduced understeer. EBD also provides a more precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stopping distances and stability.
Standard safety features include front seat head/chest side impact air bags (SRS), dual front airbags and three-point seatbelts. Front seat belts include electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters. All 2004 Impreza models receive collapsible pedal controls that "break away" during a frontal impact to help reduce foot injuries.
About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 franchised dealers across the United States. Source - Subaru Media
--"No-Compromise" The Most Powerful Subaru Ever Offered in North America--
DETROIT, Jan. 6, 2003 — Subaru of America, Inc. today introduced the long-awaited 2004MY Impreza WRX STi, an ultra high-performance all-wheel drive sedan, at the North American International Auto Show. Based on the critically acclaimed Subaru Impreza WRX, Impreza WRX STi is completely re-engineered to provide world-class sports car levels of acceleration, handling and braking performance. Impreza WRX STi will serve as the performance flagship of the Subaru line when it arrives in dealerships this summer and will earn distinction as the most powerful Subaru ever offered for sale in North America. Be sure to check it out at Impreza.Subaru.com.
The Impreza WRX STi draws motorsports technology directly from Subaru expertise in World Rally Championship (WRC) competition, and is designed to appeal to the serious driving enthusiast. Impreza WRX STi is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC boxer engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb.-ft. of peak torque, teamed exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission. Power is transferred to all four wheels via a sophisticated Subaru All-Wheel Drive system designed to optimize performance in all conditions.
Introducing Subaru Tecnica International (STI)
STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. Subaru, which offers the only exclusively All-Wheel Drive line of passenger cars and crossover-type vehicles in the United States, has been proving the performance and durability of its All-Wheel Drive technology in World Rally Championship competition since 1989.
Until now, STi-badged Subaru vehicles had been available only in select world markets. However, the success of the WRX in the U.S. prompted strong (and vocal) demand from American consumers for an even more extreme-performance version of this car.
As a result, the U.S.-market Impreza WRX STi gives up nothing compared to models offered in Europe, Japan and other markets and in some ways offers more performance. For example, the 2.5-liter turbocharged powerplant is the largest displacement engine ever installed in a WRX STi model and is exclusive to the North American market. This unique engine also provides strong torque characteristics at both low and high rpm.
Rally Tested, Road Ready
The Impreza WRX STi benefits from the redesigned front and rear styling of the 2004MY Impreza line. The expressive new design is the result of close consultation with Subaru STi engineers and the Subaru World Rally Team to improve air resistance, optimize lift force balance, maximize engine cooling and provide Impreza models with a bolder, more dynamic appearance. In its exterior design, Impreza WRX STi leaves no doubts about its performance potential -- a look that is equally functional. The enlarged hood scoop in the aluminum hood feeds outside air to the intercooler that is significantly larger than the unit found on Impreza WRX. A completely functional dual element rear spoiler -- which appears to be borrowed directly from the Subaru World Rally Car -- helps reduce lift and improve stability at high speed. Airflow is also managed via front side spoilers on the front bumper and STi side ground effects. The front fascia features four high-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps with smoke tinted lenses and distinctive STi fog light insert covers for a no-nonsense look. Large diameter Brembo® brakes are clearly visible between the spokes of the 17-inch lightweight aluminum- alloy BBS® wheels.
The 2.5-liter horizontally opposed ("boxer") four-cylinder engine is based on a specially reinforced "semi-closed deck" engine block with forged aluminum alloy pistons, forged high-carbon steel connecting rods and sodium-filled exhaust valves. This advanced powerplant incorporates Subaru AVCS (Active Valve Control System) variable valve timing technology to optimize the engine's volumetric efficiency throughout the rev band. It is the first application of this technology on a Subaru in North America. The large capacity intercooler includes a manually operated water spray feature to provide additional cooling.
Driver-Adjustable All-Wheel Drive
WRX STi is equipped with the brand's most performance-directed All-Wheel Drive system with DCCD (Driver Control Center Differential). In automatic mode, the computer varies the front/rear torque split automatically depending on driving conditions and driver input. In manual mode, the DCCD system allows the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution for different driving conditions.
Using a small control wheel on the car's center console, the driver can set the system to transfer as much as 65 percent of available torque to the rear wheels to increase handling agility. Impreza WRX STi employs a new Suretrac® limited-slip front differential and a mechanical limited-slip rear differential. The Suretrac differential is a gearless unit that responds to a torque differential between left and right wheels to increase traction and reduce understeer.
Form Follows Function
Inside are several reminders that Impreza WRX STi is a special vehicle. The sport-design front seats feature substantial side bolsters, an integrated head restraint design and an embroidered "STi" logo. The seats are upholstered in unique perforated blue Ecsaine® fabric with contrasting black knit bolsters, complemented by expressive blue floor carpeting. STI engineers also examined a wide range of measures to help reduce weight, eliminating items that did not enhance performance. As a result, Impreza WRX STi does not include a standard sound system. However, an optional sound system will be available at Subaru dealers. Other weight reduction measures include the use of lightweight rear window glass, aluminum control arms and forged aluminum wheels. Comfort features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks and power mirrors - amenities that an owner cannot add after the sale - are included as standard equipment.
A revised STi instrument gauge cluster places a 9,000-rpm tachometer in the center, complemented by a 160-mph speedometer, DCCD display, fuel and temperature gauges. Red LED indicators and an illuminated "STi" logo in the tachometer reinforce the sporty driving environment. Offering a preview the vehicle's performance potential, all the gauge needles swing to their maximum positions when the ignition is switched on, then fall back to their normal positions. All three primary gauges are trimmed with aluminum rings. A Subaru World Rally Team-designed black leather-wrapped MOMO® brand steering wheel with red upper stitching and black lower stitching and matching leather-wrapped parking brake handle with red stitching are also unique to Impreza WRX STi.
Competition-Proven Handling
A super-stiff Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with a hydroformed front subframe form the basis of the high-integrity Impreza platform. The 4-wheel independent suspension inherits technology from the Impreza World Rally Championship competition car, but has been strictly optimized in the WRX STi for high cornering performance on paved roads.
Compared to the standard WRX, the STi version has been lowered by 0.4-inch, yielding a lower center of gravity. New inverted struts in the front and rear suspension reduce unsprung vehicle weight and increase bending resistance for quicker and more consistent performance under hard cornering.
The WRX STi employs a quicker steering ratio than the standard WRX model - 15.0-to-1 compared to 16.5-to-1 for the WRX. As standard equipment, Subaru equips the WRX STi with 17 x 7.5-inch BBS aluminum-alloy wheels and 225/45 ZR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE070 directional performance tires.
Brembo® Brakes with Super Sport ABS
Subaru has equipped the Impreza WRX STi with one of the most advanced and performance-optimized braking systems on the market today. The powerful Brembo Performance Brake System employs ventilated 4-wheel disc brakes to help ensure stopping power and consistency commensurate with the vehicle's extreme performance capability. The front discs measure 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilize four-piston, fixed-position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in diameter and 0.8-inch thick and make use of two-piston, fixed-position calipers.
A combination of Electronic Brake-Force Distribution (EBD) and a new Super Sport Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) helps to reduce stopping distances and understeer when compared to conventional ABS systems. Conventional ABS systems control the rear wheels as a pair, reducing the braking force to both wheels when a loss of traction is detected at either wheel. Using input from a lateral g-sensor, Super Sport ABS can independently control the braking forces at each wheel, optimizing the braking ability during hard cornering - resulting in reduced understeer. EBD also provides a more precise control of braking pressure between the front and rear wheels based on the vehicle load to improve stopping distances and stability.
Standard safety features include front seat head/chest side impact air bags (SRS), dual front airbags and three-point seatbelts. Front seat belts include electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters. All 2004 Impreza models receive collapsible pedal controls that "break away" during a frontal impact to help reduce foot injuries.
About Subaru of America, Inc.
Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered near Philadelphia, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of nearly 600 franchised dealers across the United States. Source - Subaru Media
Introduced by Subaru in November of 1992, the Impreza is a compact car that was offered in either front wheel or all wheel drive and featured sporty curves. The Impreza came in both four-door sedan/saloon versions or five-door station wagon/estate. More compact than the Legacy, the Impreza had a more enhanced high-performance driving and feeling of quality than its predecessor.
The Impreza became Subaru's entry into the small-car maket segment in U.S., European, Japanese and numorous other world markets. ‘Subura' a Japanese word meaning ‘unite' has a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction that is represented in their more than 10 million vehicles sold worldwide.
Equipped with a flat engine (or an internal combustion engine, also called a boxermotor) the Impreza came with distinguishable Subaru characteristics. With an engine choice of 1.5: or 1.8L naturally-aspirated engines that were neither turbocharged nor supercharged.
Available in a 4-wheel drive turbo charged version that delivered 211Bhp and had the distinction of the turbo charger mounted on the right side of the engine. The intercooler is located above the engine, therefore the reason for the big central air vent on the bonnet of the Impreza. On the racing version of the Impreza, the intercooler is located in the front bumper.
The Impreza came with an engine that was mounted longitudinally, making the gearbox and transmission much easier to fit and service.
For drivers searching for a car that provides thrills without major frills, the Japanese manufacturers have gained the status of being the only ones still able to produce a car for such a low price. Subaru Impreza turbo is gaining impressive commercial success due to price to performance ratio, its racing successes and reliable features.
The Impreza turbo's commercial success has led to production of more impressive versions that aren't available outside of Japan. The Impreza GT turbo evolved into becoming a multiple World Rally Champion with three world championship titles.
Common in Japan and Europe, special editions of the Impreza were available, usually coinciding with significant victories at World Rally Championships.
For the 1997 model year, the Impreza received an updated exterior facelift that was followed by a complete interior redesign in 1998.
A first-generation Impreza, turbocharged was never received in the North American market.Elizabeth Johnson
The Impreza became Subaru's entry into the small-car maket segment in U.S., European, Japanese and numorous other world markets. ‘Subura' a Japanese word meaning ‘unite' has a reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction that is represented in their more than 10 million vehicles sold worldwide.
Equipped with a flat engine (or an internal combustion engine, also called a boxermotor) the Impreza came with distinguishable Subaru characteristics. With an engine choice of 1.5: or 1.8L naturally-aspirated engines that were neither turbocharged nor supercharged.
Available in a 4-wheel drive turbo charged version that delivered 211Bhp and had the distinction of the turbo charger mounted on the right side of the engine. The intercooler is located above the engine, therefore the reason for the big central air vent on the bonnet of the Impreza. On the racing version of the Impreza, the intercooler is located in the front bumper.
The Impreza came with an engine that was mounted longitudinally, making the gearbox and transmission much easier to fit and service.
For drivers searching for a car that provides thrills without major frills, the Japanese manufacturers have gained the status of being the only ones still able to produce a car for such a low price. Subaru Impreza turbo is gaining impressive commercial success due to price to performance ratio, its racing successes and reliable features.
The Impreza turbo's commercial success has led to production of more impressive versions that aren't available outside of Japan. The Impreza GT turbo evolved into becoming a multiple World Rally Champion with three world championship titles.
Common in Japan and Europe, special editions of the Impreza were available, usually coinciding with significant victories at World Rally Championships.
For the 1997 model year, the Impreza received an updated exterior facelift that was followed by a complete interior redesign in 1998.
A first-generation Impreza, turbocharged was never received in the North American market.Elizabeth Johnson
Subaru introduced its Impreza Compact Car in 1993 and has since become a pinnacle of performance. The name 'Impreza' was derived from an Italian word 'impresa', meaning a feat or achievement. In Polish, the name 'Impreza' means to 'party', an 'event' or 'show'. In either language, the name is suitable.
When the Impreza was first introduced in November of 1993, it was available in either front wheel drive or all wheel drive configuration. Two bodystyles were offered, a four-door sedan or five-door station wagon. The two-door coupe followed a few years later, in 1995. Trim levels included the LX, GL, and Sport. Adding to the vehicles versatility, the Impreza was offered with a variety of engines, including a 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0-liter engine. To boost performance further, a turbocharger and intercooler was available on the 2-liter engine. Horsepower for the forced-induction engine was an impressive 208. In the Japanese market, the output was even higher.
Subaru Tecnica International (STi) was formed in 1988; their purpose was to specialize in the preparation of vehicles for rallies. In 1994, they were given the opportunity to create a version of the Impreza to bear the 'STi' nameplate. When introduced, it was only available in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and European Domestic Market (EDM). These versions featured performance-tuned engines, transmission, and suspensions. Horsepower was raised above the normal WRX models, and could carry the vehicles from zero-to-sixty in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed was electronically limited at 122 mph. The European market had a slightly de-tuned version of the engine, though performance was still impressive. Additional steps were taken to prepare the vehicles for rally competition. The soundproofing material was reduced, the air conditioning removed, and void of many non-essential amenities. The overall weight of the vehicle was reduced significantly.
The Impreza received cosmetic changes in 1997 and the interior was redesigned in the following year. The design-inspiration for the interior was borrowed from the Forester.
Special edition Impreza's have been introduced throughout its production lifespan. These limited edition models are often tuned for greater performance or given unique cosmetic changes. The purpose is often to commemorate a racing success or to honor a racing legend. Editions include the Series McRae, 555, Catalunya, Terzo, RB5, P1, and 22B. A limited edition version of the Impreza Wagon was even offered for a short time, dubbed the CasaBlanca.
The European market received a performance upgraded version of the Impreza in 1999 which featured an improved turbocharger and 4-pot calibers with larger disc brakes. The suspension was improved and the seating became more racer-oriented with bucket seats similar to the STi version.
While the rest of the world was offered the turbocharger version of the Impreza, the North American market was left to sit on the side-lines. The turbocharger would not come across 'the pond' during the first generation of the Impreza. The Impreza was offered with the 1.8-liter engine with either front- or all-wheel drive. A 2.2-liter version of the engine became available in 1995. The FWD was later droped and all Subaru's became all-wheel drive as standard.
Subaru was unsure of the performance market in North America, and thus, offered only basic engines. In 1998, the year the 1.8-liter engine was no longer available, Subaru decided to explore the possibilities of performance in the US. They offered a performance model dubbed the Impreza 2.5RS. The 2.5-liter DOHC naturally-aspirated engine produced 165 horsepower and had performance upgrades throughout the vehicle, including larger brakes and 16-inch five-spoke gold-colored wheels. Hood vents, rear spoiler, and a hood scoop helped segregate the styling from this 'special' model and its non-tuned sibling.
In 2001, Subaru introduced a larger, more refined and improved, Impreza. For some, the changes were a step in the wrong direction, as the car grew in size and weight. It was tamer beast for the typical day-to-day driving conditions and the extra size meant it was more versatile. Also, the coupe model was no longer offered.
The WRX version, for the United States, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that cranked out nearly 230 horsepower became available the following year, in 2002. The US had to wait a long time to get the STi version, which did not enter into production for the States until 2004. To comply with safety and emission control laws in the United States, it was not the same thoroughbred racer as in other parts of the world. Still, it was a very impressive machine. In other markets, the STi was equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger 2.0-liter engine. In the US, the STi was powered by a 2.5-liter EJ25 engine mated with a turbocharger.
In 2003, the Impreza was given a facelift, mainly due to the negative reaction by some media outlets. One of the more noticeable changes were to the headlamps, which became more square. Another redesign occurred in 2006 on all Impreza's, featuring changes to its headlights, taillights, and bumpers - among other changes.
The Third generation of the Impreza was introduced to the world at the 2007 New York Auto Show, ready for sale in 2008. It will be available as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback.
When the Impreza was first introduced in November of 1993, it was available in either front wheel drive or all wheel drive configuration. Two bodystyles were offered, a four-door sedan or five-door station wagon. The two-door coupe followed a few years later, in 1995. Trim levels included the LX, GL, and Sport. Adding to the vehicles versatility, the Impreza was offered with a variety of engines, including a 1.6, 1.8, and 2.0-liter engine. To boost performance further, a turbocharger and intercooler was available on the 2-liter engine. Horsepower for the forced-induction engine was an impressive 208. In the Japanese market, the output was even higher.
Subaru Tecnica International (STi) was formed in 1988; their purpose was to specialize in the preparation of vehicles for rallies. In 1994, they were given the opportunity to create a version of the Impreza to bear the 'STi' nameplate. When introduced, it was only available in the Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) and European Domestic Market (EDM). These versions featured performance-tuned engines, transmission, and suspensions. Horsepower was raised above the normal WRX models, and could carry the vehicles from zero-to-sixty in just 4.9 seconds. Top speed was electronically limited at 122 mph. The European market had a slightly de-tuned version of the engine, though performance was still impressive. Additional steps were taken to prepare the vehicles for rally competition. The soundproofing material was reduced, the air conditioning removed, and void of many non-essential amenities. The overall weight of the vehicle was reduced significantly.
The Impreza received cosmetic changes in 1997 and the interior was redesigned in the following year. The design-inspiration for the interior was borrowed from the Forester.
Special edition Impreza's have been introduced throughout its production lifespan. These limited edition models are often tuned for greater performance or given unique cosmetic changes. The purpose is often to commemorate a racing success or to honor a racing legend. Editions include the Series McRae, 555, Catalunya, Terzo, RB5, P1, and 22B. A limited edition version of the Impreza Wagon was even offered for a short time, dubbed the CasaBlanca.
The European market received a performance upgraded version of the Impreza in 1999 which featured an improved turbocharger and 4-pot calibers with larger disc brakes. The suspension was improved and the seating became more racer-oriented with bucket seats similar to the STi version.
While the rest of the world was offered the turbocharger version of the Impreza, the North American market was left to sit on the side-lines. The turbocharger would not come across 'the pond' during the first generation of the Impreza. The Impreza was offered with the 1.8-liter engine with either front- or all-wheel drive. A 2.2-liter version of the engine became available in 1995. The FWD was later droped and all Subaru's became all-wheel drive as standard.
Subaru was unsure of the performance market in North America, and thus, offered only basic engines. In 1998, the year the 1.8-liter engine was no longer available, Subaru decided to explore the possibilities of performance in the US. They offered a performance model dubbed the Impreza 2.5RS. The 2.5-liter DOHC naturally-aspirated engine produced 165 horsepower and had performance upgrades throughout the vehicle, including larger brakes and 16-inch five-spoke gold-colored wheels. Hood vents, rear spoiler, and a hood scoop helped segregate the styling from this 'special' model and its non-tuned sibling.
In 2001, Subaru introduced a larger, more refined and improved, Impreza. For some, the changes were a step in the wrong direction, as the car grew in size and weight. It was tamer beast for the typical day-to-day driving conditions and the extra size meant it was more versatile. Also, the coupe model was no longer offered.
The WRX version, for the United States, with its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that cranked out nearly 230 horsepower became available the following year, in 2002. The US had to wait a long time to get the STi version, which did not enter into production for the States until 2004. To comply with safety and emission control laws in the United States, it was not the same thoroughbred racer as in other parts of the world. Still, it was a very impressive machine. In other markets, the STi was equipped with a twin-scroll turbocharger 2.0-liter engine. In the US, the STi was powered by a 2.5-liter EJ25 engine mated with a turbocharger.
In 2003, the Impreza was given a facelift, mainly due to the negative reaction by some media outlets. One of the more noticeable changes were to the headlamps, which became more square. Another redesign occurred in 2006 on all Impreza's, featuring changes to its headlights, taillights, and bumpers - among other changes.
The Third generation of the Impreza was introduced to the world at the 2007 New York Auto Show, ready for sale in 2008. It will be available as a four-door sedan and five-door hatchback.
| Photos grouped by event | |||
|
Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally |
Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally |
 Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally |
2006 STPR - Susquehannock Trail Performance Rally |
2003 Subaru Impreza WRX STi |
|
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza WRX STi |
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Engine Location | Front |
| Drive Type | AWD |
| Production Years for Series | 2002 - 2007 |
| Weight | 2965 lbs | 1344.9 kg |
| Combined MPG | 0.00 |
| Engine | |
| Engine Configuration | I |
| Cylinders | 4 |
| Aspiration/Induction | Turbocharged |
| Displacement | 2.50 L | 152.6 cu in. | 2501.1 cc. |
| Valves | 16 valves. 4 valves per cylinder. |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Horsepower | 300.00 BHP (220.8 KW) @ 6000.00 RPM |
| Torque | 300.00 Ft-Lbs (406.8 NM) @ 4000.00 RPM |
| HP to Weight Ratio | 9.9 LB / HP (Vehicles with similar ratio) |
| HP / Liter | 120.0 BHP / Liter |
| Compression Ratio | 8.00:1 |
| Vehicles with similar horsepower and weight | |
| Transmission Information | |
| Gears | 6 |
| Transmission | Manual |
| Final Drive | 3.90 |
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a great impreza
Replies: 1 Friday, March 04, 2005 |
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mmmm sti
Replies: 4 Monday, June 09, 2003 |
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streets, here i come!
Replies: 24 Tuesday, January 28, 2003 |
| 2003 Subaru models |
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| Outback | 2003 Subaru Concepts |
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Automobile information, history, and statistics from concept to production. | © 1998-2008 Conceptcarz.com
Automobile information, history, and statistics from concept to production. | © 1998-2008 Conceptcarz.com