2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi review

Subaru Impreza WRX STi review:

Subaru has restyled its Impreza line for 2006 and in addition given the all-conquering 300-horsepower WRX STI model several performance enhancements. On the safety front, all Impreza models gain the new dualstage Subaru Advanced Airbag System.

Following an interior redesign for 2005, all Impreza models have been restyled for 2006 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. All 2006 Impreza models are also identified by a new tail lamp cluster design. The 2006 WRX STI is also distinguished by the lower-profile hood scoop from the standard WRX to aid forward visibility. Daytime running lights (DRL) are added to the safety roster to make the WRX STI more visible to other drivers. A new roof vane spoiler, inspired by the Impreza World Rally Championship competition car, contributes to stability at track speeds and reinforces the car?s high-performance attitude.

The WRX STI received several significant chassis performance enhancements for 2005, including wider wheels. For 2006, the addition of a steering sensor input to the DCCD All-Wheel Drive system enhances power distribution response by more accurately relaying the car?s cornering situation. The WRX STI is based on the Impreza WRX platform but is completely re-engineered to provide even higher levels of acceleration, handling and braking performance that challenge the world?s best sports cars. In its first year, the WRX STI won Road & Track magazine?s ?Best Car 2004? Reader?s Choice Award, edging out several dedicated sports cars, including the Porsche 911 GT3.

The Impreza WRX STI is powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 2.5-liter DOHC boxer engine producing 300 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 300 lb-ft of peak torque at 4,000 rpm. Teamed exclusively to a 6-speed manual transmission, the engine can propel the WRX STI from zero-to-60 mph in under five seconds. Power is transferred to all four wheels by a sophisticated Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) to optimize performance in all conditions.

Rally Tested, Road Ready

The WRX STI draws motorsports technology directly from Subaru expertise in World Rally Championship (WRC) competition and is designed to appeal to the most serious driving enthusiasts. STI stands for Subaru Tecnica International, the high-performance and motorsports subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd.

In its exterior design, Impreza WRX STI leaves no doubts about its performance potential ? a look that is equally functional. The scoop in the aluminum hood feeds outside air to an intercooler that is significantly larger than the intercooler used on WRX models. The dual-plane rear spoiler ? which appears to be borrowed directly from the Impreza World Rally Car ? helps reduce lift and improve stability at track speeds. An aerodynamic underbody cover and the new roof vane spoiler contribute to enhanced high-speed track stability. Airflow is also managed via front side spoilers on the front bumper and STI-design aerodynamic side ground effects.

The front fascia features a four-beam headlight system with high-intensity discharge (HID) low beams. Distinctive STI fog light insert covers add to the no-nonsense look. Large diameter Brembo brakes are clearly visible between the spokes of the 17-inch lightweight aluminum-alloy BBS wheels.

300-Horsepower Turbo Engine

The 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder engine is based on a specially reinforced semiclosed deck engine block with forged aluminum-alloy pistons, forged high-carbon steel connecting rods and sodium-filled exhaust valves. The Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology helps provide strong torque characteristics throughout the engine?s operating range. The turbocharger produces 14.5 psi of maximum boost compared to 13.5 in the standard WRX. The large capacity intercooler uses a manually operated water spray feature to enhance intercooler efficiency during high-performance driving.

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive With Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)

The Impreza WRX STI is equipped with the brand?s most performance-directed Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system featuring Driver Control Center Differential (DCCD). A planetary center differential provides a performance-oriented 35 percent front / 65 percent rear power split. Set in automatic mode, the electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch can vary the torque distribution ratio as needed to suit driving and road-surface conditions.

Automatic mode provides the best all-around performance for most drivers and circumstances, varying the front/rear torque distribution automatically depending on driving conditions and driver input. The system determines the ideal power distribution in response to vehicle acceleration, deceleration, steering angle, cornering force and wheel slippage.

In manual mode, DCCD allows the driver to vary the front-to-rear torque distribution (up to 50/50 maximum) to optimize All-Wheel Drive performance for varying driving conditions. The driver first selects manual mode with a console-mounted button and then turns a thumbwheel on the center console to select from among six levels of center differential locking. Increasing the lock factor keeps more power at the front wheels, which the driver might want in certain driving conditions, on particular roads or to suit an individual driving style.

Brembo Brakes with Super Sport ABS

Subaru equipped 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 high performance capability. The front discs measure 12.7 inches in diameter and 1.2-inch thick and utilize 4-piston, fixed-position calipers. The rear discs are 12.3 inches in diameter and 0.8-inch thick and use 2-piston, fixed-position calipers.

Performance-Directed Interior

The WRX STI conveys its performance attitude from the inside, as well. The driver grips a MOMO 3-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel. Performance design front seats feature substantial side bolsters, integrated head restraints and embroidered ?STI? logos. The seats are upholstered in unique perforated blue high-grip Ecsaine fabric with contrasting black knit bolsters, complemented by matching blue door trim and blue floor carpeting.

The WRX STI instrument gauge cluster places a 9,000-rpm tachometer in the center, flanked by a 160-mph speedometer, DCCD display and fuel and temperature gauges. All three primary gauges feature aluminum trim rings. Red LED indicators and an illuminated ?STI? logo in the tachometer reinforce the sporty driving environment. Previewing the vehicle?s performance potential, all the gauge needles swing to their maximum positions when the ignition is switched on, and then return to their normal positions. The standard automatic climate control system integrates cabin air filtration. The standard 140-watt AM/FM premium stereo plays through six speakers and includes a 6-disc in-dash CD changer. An engine immobilizer security system is standard equipment. End of Subaru Impreza WRX STi review.