Subaru Impreza WRX: Rallye-Wolf

A family capable rallye sports car from the 4WD specialist Subaru

Picture by Subaru

The new edition of the rallye-wolf in street-sheep's disguise from the 4wd specialist Subaru appears with a smooth outer face-lift (unfortunately it doesn't really make the WRX more beautiful), a slight optical adaption of the onboard controls and instruments, and 7 hp more than its established forerunner.

At that price, only the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 8 is maybe a real competition for the astoundingly family-capable vehicle.

Picture by Subaru

The Subaru Impreza WRX in motion

165 kW/225 hp at 5600/min, 300 Nm at 4000 rpm, 5-speed-manual gearbox, 232 km/h, 0 to100 km/h in 5.9 seconds, average fuel consumption during test drive: 10.8 l/100 km, price: 34.490 Euros (in Austria, incl. all taxes)

Driving Characteristics * * * *
The firm, but not too hard chassis allows comfortable, low-noise ride on the motorways in the long-rationed fifth gear. The late intercepting turbo makes a ride around town enjoyably shock-free. Manual gearbox is a bit jerky.

Engine/Powertrain * * * *
The permanent all-wheel drive, which is standard for every Subaru provides an amazing roadability and transfers the 225 hp of the 4-cylinder Boxer engine trouble-free to the road. The turbo sets in at about 3000 rpm, but then a bulky and short-winded way so that quick gear shifting is necessary.

Picture by Subaru

Comfort * * * *
Up to about 3000 rpm the WRX performs like a good natured family car. Driver's and front passenger's seats are comfortable offering very good footing and leg-rests. The head restraints are not adjustable. Even at the back there is enough head room.

Room Capacities/Variability * * * *
Convenient rear armrest with trunk pass-through (e.g. for skis). There are enough oddment trays (even for CDs). In spite of the rallye-touch absolutely suitable for children.

Standard equipment * * *
Aluminium rims, tyres: 215, sports seats, air condition, central locking with remote control, power mirrors, radio prearrangement.

Workmanship * *
A lot of simple plastics, moderate workmanship.

Safety Features * * * *
ABS with electronic brakeforce distribution, front and side-impact air bags for driver and front-passenger, side-impact protection and reinforcement frame body structure.

Competitors
Musclecars like Mitsubishi Lancer Evo VIII, VW Golf R32, Honda S2000, Ford Focus RS, Audi RS4, Renault Clio V6.