2006-2007 Subaru Impreza WRX

Pros :
- Looks a little better.
- Great all-wheel-drive handling.
- More useable torque.
- Affordable price.
- Interesting trim choices.

Cons :
- Some cheap interior bits.
- Power increase offset by weight increase.
- High wind noise at highway speeds.
- Limited rear legroom.
- Looks better, but not by a whole lot.

Interior :

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Press Coverage :
Building on the success of this benchmark sport-compact performance model, Subaru has augmented the standard WRX Sedan and Sport Wagon with a new WRX TR Sedan entry model and two new premium-level WRX Limited models.
All Impreza models have been restyled for 2006 to reflect the new brand identity. The new Subaru signature front-end design for Impreza features boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses and a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company's aircraft heritage. Impreza sedan models feature revised wide-body fenders. Sport Wagons have their own flared fender design, as on the previous model, and now also feature new side spoilers. In the rear, all 2006 Impreza models are distinguished by a new tail lamp cluster design. (The Impreza line had gained a redesigned interior for the 2005 model year.)
The original Impreza WRX set the performance/value standard in its segment, and the 2006 models are designed to raise the bar. The biggest change to the 2006 Impreza WRX is found under its aluminum hood. A 230-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged / intercooled engine, shared with the Forester® 2.5 XT model, replaces the 217-horsepower 2.0-liter engine used since the WRX model's introduction. The larger-displacement engine produces 235 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm, compared to 217 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm for the previous engine. Even more than the numbers suggest, performance is improved in all speed ranges, with greater emphasis on low-end and mid-range torque.
Along with the boost in power, the 2006 Impreza WRX models also gain upgraded chassis performance, with newly standard 17-inch alloy wheels, wider, lower-profile tires and larger, more powerful brakes. On the safety front, all Impreza models gain the new dual-stage Subaru Advanced Airbag System.
With an emphasis on pure performance, the 2006 WRX TR makes this legendary sport-compact more accessible with an MSRP that matches the original WRX model launched more than four years ago. Available only as a sedan, the WRX TR is identical to the standard WRX Sedan in terms of performance equipment, substituting value-oriented interior content and exterior trim from the Impreza 2.5 i Sedan.
The WRX TR buyer will not give up comfort and convenience, however, as the extensive standard equipment list includes air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors and door locks, leather-wrapped steering wheel, AM/FM stereo system with single-disc CD player, remote keyless entry, security system with new engine immobilizer, an outside temperature gauge and even carpeted floormats. Subaru dealers offer a range of Genuine Subaru Accessories that the WRX TR buyer can add in, all covered under the standard limited warranty. Audio upgrades are among the choices.
The standard WRX model, in comparison, remains available in two body styles and comes equipped with a standard automatic climate control system, a 3-spoke black leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 140-Watt AM/FM premium stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and six upgraded speakers. This model's performance-design front seats with integrated head restraints lend a strong rally car flavor, accented by aluminum pedal covers in the manual-transmission model. In addition, the WRX TR deletes rear cupholders.
New for 2006, the WRX Limited Sedan and WRX Limited Sport Wagon are designed to expand the WRX's appeal to customers who also consider European performance sedans and sport wagons. Both of these models include the equipment from the standard WRX and add more comfort and luxury with leather seating, power glass moonroof, dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. The WRX Limited Sedan in addition features a rear trunk spoiler.
In conjunction with the more powerful engine, the 2006 Impreza WRX models gain significant chassis and braking system changes. 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.) The steering ratio is quicker than before (15.0:1 vs. 16.5:1), with turns lock-to-lock reduced to 2.6 from 3.0 turns lock-to-lock for the 2005 model. On all WRX models, new 7-spoke 17 x 7-inch aluminum-alloy wheels replace the previous 16 x 6.5-inch wheels. Tires, likewise, are more generously sized for 2006: 215/45 R17 versus 205/55 R16 before. (This "Plus 1" wheel and tire upgrade alone could cost $1,000 or more in the aftermarket.) The more powerful brake system employs 11.5-inch vented front discs as before, but now uses four-piston calipers instead of the previous two-piston calipers. The rear brakes are new, with 11.3-inch ventilated discs replacing the previous 10.3-inch 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.
Even with the increased performance and handling capability in Impreza WRX, the ride has been refined with the addition of noise-reduction measures. All 2006 WRX models add the underbody cover from the WRX STI and also gain increased sound insulation in the carpeting, headliner and shifter boot.
The WRX Sport Wagon models offer excellent utility and versatility. The standard 60/40-split rear seatback folds flat against the seat cushion to extend the cargo area. Impreza wagon models provide 23.8 cu. ft. of cargo space with the rear seatbacks up and 61.6 cu. ft. of space with the seatbacks folded down.
Impreza has built a reputation as the sport-compact for all seasons, thanks in large part to standard Symmetrical All- Wheel Drive that provides both a performance advantage and serves as an all-weather handling aid. In models with the standard 5-speed manual transmission, the AWD system uses a viscous coupling locking bevel-gear center differential integrated into the transmission. This full-time AWD system distributes engine power 50:50, transferring more power to the wheels with the best traction should slippage occur.
For 2006, only the WRX Limited models are available with the optional 4-speed automatic transmission. With the automatic, the cars feature the Variable Torque Distribution (VTD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. The VTD automatic transmission uses a planetary gear-type center differential that splits the power 45:55, with the rear-wheel bias enhancing handling agility and the performance driving feel. An electronically controlled continuously variable hydraulic transfer clutch controls power distribution between the front and rear wheels in response to driver input and driving conditions. The VTD system continually optimizes power distribution on all road surfaces. All WRX models are equipped with a viscous limited-slip rear differential.
The Subaru Ring Frame Reinforced body structure provides Impreza models with outstanding protection in many types of collisions. A hydroformed front subframe and side sills along with tailored-blank welded B-pillars provide an exceptionally strong structure. The high degree of rigidity contributes to sharp handling response and smooth ride quality while helping to reduce interior noise.
On all Impreza models, the standard 4-channel / 4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) incorporates Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD). This system enhances braking performance and stability by actively optimizing braking force between the front and rear wheels according to how the vehicle is loaded with passengers and cargo. Impreza safety features include 3-point seatbelts for all five seating positions, with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force limiters in front. Active front seat head restraints in the Impreza WRX TR model are designed to help reduce whiplash injury in a rear collision. All WRX models for 2006 gain the new dual-stage deployment Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag system* and continue with front seat head/chest side-impact air bags. The driver's side front air bag deploys according to the driver's proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight on the seat - first determining if it's occupied, and if so by a child or adult - to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features a new "Airbag" indicator light.
Impreza sedan models have integrated headrests for the rear seats, and the wagon models use removable headrests to enable rear seatback folding. All Impreza models are equipped with the LATCH child restraint anchorage system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) for use with compatible child safety seats. The safety brake pedal system in all Impreza models is designed to yield during a serious frontal impact in order to help reduce injury to the driver's lower limbs.
Subaru of America

Long-distance comfort was not initially one of the WRX's strong points, but a couple of recent changes have made the 2006 car a much more liveable long-distance tourer. Its engine, for one, has been enlarged from 2.0 to 2.5 litres, so you don't need to wind it up or downshift as much for decent passing power. It's smoother, quieter, and generally more refined than the old motor, and seems to get similar gas mileage, at least on the highway. Second, new seats have been fitted, with one-piece backrests similar to the STi model's, which are terrifically supportive during cornering but with enough plushness to coddle you during long highway stints.
This is the WRX's second facelift, and the car is starting to show its age in some areas. While the interior has been upgraded beyond the new seats - there's new trim on the centre console and redesigned gauges, as well as an easier-to-use stereo - the quality of the materials isn't the best, and the design's beginning to feel a bit old. More importantly, the small size that gives the WRX its nimbleness also means that its back seat is claustrophobic, with very little legroom if whoever's up front is over 6 feet. Insulation from wind and road noise isn't the best, either, and the whole car has kind of a thin feel, lacking the substance
Canadian Driver

Although only a few people (approximately 15 percent of buyers) order their WRXs with the 4-speed automatic transmission, the new engine, with its added bottom-end torque, works much better with the slushbox. The auto still does rob the WRX of some zip, but the automatic WRX is far less aggravating than before. The best WRX comes fitted with the 5-speed manual, which for 2006 benefits from shorter throws, a stronger linkage and double-cone synchronizers on 1st gear.
Road and Track

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History:
2002-2005 Subaru Impreza WRX
1,997 cc / 227 hp / 217 lb-ft / 3085-3220 lbs / 0-60 mph 5.7 sec.