Impreza WRX Online Catalog

Scooby News

22nd July 2008 UK Press release - High Performance Hat-Trick from Subaru

Three new high-performance Special Edition Imprezas

255 PS Impreza WRX-S at £22,495 OTR

330 PS Impreza WRX STI 330S for around £30,000 OTR

Ultimate 380 PS Impreza WRX STI 380S concept

Subaru has scored a high-performance hat-trick for the British International Motor Show with the launch of no less than three new Special Edition new-shape Impreza models – two of which can be seen at the show.

All receive Prodrive engine upgrades plus comfort and styling tweaks, giving enthusiasts an unprecedented choice of sporty Subarus.

WRX S2 front

The 255 PS Impreza WRX-S costs a highly-competitive £22,495 while the 330 PS Impreza WRX STI 330S will be priced at around £30,000 (both on- the-road). First deliveries are expected in September.

Still in concept stage is the 380 PS Impreza WRX STI 380S which could become available within the next six months pending positive customer response.

Visitors to the show (July 23 to August 3, ExCeL, London) can see both the STI 380S concept and the WRX-S on Subaru's stand N23.

Impreza WRX-S Offers More Power And Style Based on the new Impreza WRX, the `S' model offers £4,500 worth of extras for a £2,500 premium, costing £22,495 OTR.

Banbury-based Prodrive has re-programmed the 2.5 litre `boxer' engine's ECU (electronic control unit) and modified the exhaust system. This sees power leap from 230 PS at 5,200 rpm to 255 PS at 5,400 rpm while the torque improvement is even greater, growing from 236 lb.ft at 2,800 rpm to 287.6 at 3,000 rpm – a staggering 51 lb. ft more.

WRX S2 rear

Maximum speed remains at 130 mph but the 0-60 mph time drops from 6.1 seconds to 5.5 seconds. Naturally, in-gear flexibility is greatly enhanced.

The new Impreza WRX-S also boasts 18x7.5 ins anthracite GT1 alloy wheels with 225/40 tyres, an STI front grille, STI front lip spoiler and STI rear wing and body-colour tailgate moulding.

Also standard is a MOMO `Air-Race' gearknob while the colour choice is between San Remo Red, WR Blue Mica, Obsidian Black Pearl and Satin White Pearl.

Standard equipment on the Impreza 2.5 WRX-S includes front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a rear diffuser, leather-covered steering wheel, all-wheel drive, a rear limited-slip differential with Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player and xenon headlamps.

WRX STi 330S rear

Impreza WRX STI 330S Brings Back The Burble The new Impreza WRX STI 330S also benefits from a Prodrive Performance pack with modified ECU and exhaust system – this time with paired twin 90 mm diameter stainless steel exhaust pipes to bring back the burble so loved by `scooby' fans.

Power goes up to 330 PS at only 5,400 rpm compared to the 300.5 PS at 6,000 rpm of the standard model.

Torque is boosted from 300.2 lb ft at 4,000 rpm to 346.6 lb ft at a lower 3,400 rpm making for an even swifter, effortless driving experience.

Top speed is the same 155.3 mph but the 0-60 mph time drops from an already swift 4.8 seconds to only 4.4 seconds.

Expected to be priced at around £30,000 OTR, the new Impreza WRX STI 330S has an especially luxurious specification – even compared to the already well-equipped standard STI which costs £26,595 OTR.

WRX STi 330S front

Upgrades include leather-covered Recaro front seats, satellite navigation, Smart-entry and push-button start.

Visually, the new special-edition sports new five-spoke 18x8.5 ins alloy wheels wearing 245/40 R18 tyres. It will be available in the full range of STI colours.

Standard equipment on the Impreza WRX STI includes a six-speed gearbox, Si-Drive giving three different engine response modes, a Multi-mode Driver Control Centre Differential, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control and – of course – symmetrical all-wheel drive with front and rear limited-slip differentials.

Show-Stopping WRX STI 380S Concept

Sure to be a crowd-puller is Subaru's range-topping special edition Impreza WRX STI 380S which previews at the London International Motor Show.

Dubbed a concept, the STI 380S could reach dealers within six months pending positive response. Its final specification will be finalised following customer input and will be hand-built to order.

The STI 380S will include a complete engine rebuild by Prodrive with many up-rated components to reliably achieve the target 380 PS.

Improvements over the standard Impreza WRX STI will include uprated suspension and exhaust system plus an enhanced body kit.

Other visual changes will be the option of either gold or silver- coloured 18x8.5 ins BBS alloy wheels with 245/40 tyres.

22nd May 2008 - Latest World Rally Car “Subaru Impreza WRC 2008” set to launch in Greece

STI (SUBARU TECNICA INTERNATIONAL, President Ichiro Kudoh, based in Mitaka Tokyo), a subsidiary company of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (FHI), undertaking all motorsport activities for Subaru, announced that the company will compete in Round 7 of the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC), the “Acropolis Rally” to be held at the end of May with two of the latest evolution models of the Subaru Impreza WRC, the WRC 2008.

WRC08 front

Currently, the main car manufacturer’s competing in the WRC use World Rally Cars based on production road cars with specific modifications for rally competition. The latest World Rally car, the “Subaru Impreza WRC 2008”, is based on the FHI-manufactured “Subaru Impreza” first released in 2007. The new model has now completed its final development tests and is set to run in actual competition.

The latest “Subaru Impreza WRC 2008” features a longer wheel base, with shorter front/rear overhangs than the previous model. Additionally, the rear wing, fitted to the boot on the old model, is now affixed to the tailgate on the new car, making it a feature of the new model’s exterior appearance. Meanwhile, well experienced Subaru horizontally-opposed two litre turbo engine, producing about 300 horsepower and Subaru Symmetrical All Wheel Drive System are refined and will continue to be used.

Until the current model, Subaru World Rally Cars have featured a “comet”-based livery on blue as Subaru’s unique identity. The new car features a completely revised design. The new colour scheme, created by the design department at FHI, continues with the blue base, but now uses the SUBARU logo adorned on the centre of the body, wrapped with white and silver lines. Accompanying the release of the new World Rally car, the team’s visual identity, such as drivers’ overalls, and work tents as used in the Service Park, will also have the new design scheme.

WRC08 rear

Running of the “Subaru Impreza WRC 2008” will continue to be undertaken by the U.K.-based Subaru World Rally Team (Team Principal: David Richards). The team is competing in the “Acropolis Rally” which takes place from May 29th to June 1st, based around Athens, Greece with ace driver Petter Solberg (Norway) and Chris Atkinson (Australia), both of whom will drive the new World Rally car.

Further details of the new World Rally car, including quotes from development engineers, drivers and the team principal will be made on May 28th at a press conference at the rally venue.

10th February 2008 - NEW FORESTER AND BOXER DIESEL ARE GENEVA STARS

Subaru’s Geneva Motor Show stand is set to be buzzing with interest thanks to the European debut of the completely new Forester and launch of the world’s first boxer diesel-engined passenger car in the form of the Legacy and Outback.

In addition, the Japanese exponent of symmetrical all-wheel drive will also be displaying two thought-provoking electric cars – one of which has recently completed trials in London.

Subaru’s owners, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd, will hold a press conference at 2.30 pm on Tuesday, March 4 on the Subaru stand attended by Mr Ikuo Mori, President and Chief Executive Officer.

Completely New Forester

Arguably the first of a new genre of crossover Sports Utility Vehicles, Subaru’s completely new third-generation Forester makes its European debut at the 78th Geneva Motor Show.

Based on the platform of the new Impreza, the Forester features more passenger and luggage space plus a smoother ride and even more agile handling thanks to a new multi-link double-wishbone rear suspension.

Now closer in size to its Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4 competitors, the new Forester is 75 mm longer, 45 mm wider and gains 110 mm in height.

Rear legroom grows by 95 mm, the driver’s eye-line is 30 mm higher, while the load space is now 450 litres with the rear seat up – 63 litres more than the previous model.

Due to go on sale in the UK in April, the completely new Forester will be initially available as a 2.0 litre petrol only with the new 2.0 litre boxer diesel engine appearing in the autumn with manual transmission.

World’s First Boxer Diesel Passenger Car

Also on display are examples of the world’s first boxer diesel-engined passenger car in the form of the Legacy saloon and Sports Tourer and Outback crossover.

On sale in the UK this spring, Subaru’s first diesel is attracting rave reviews from the motoring press thanks to the engine’s smoothness, refinement, petrol-like throttle-response and torquey power delivery.

The new 2.0 litre horizontally-opposed turbo-diesel also has class-leading fuel economy and emissions, recording almost 50 mpg on the Combined Cycle with 151 g/km CO2 for the Sports Tourer.

The engine is extremely compact and light with a low centre-of-gravity which enhances Subaru’s already acclaimed symmetrical all-wheel drive handling.

Two Electric Cars

Subaru’s R1e electric city commuter - which recently underwent trials in London – can be examined by showgoers. This car can be fully charged in eight hours from a standard domestic current with 80 per cent recharge in 15 minutes. Test vehicles are now running in a district of Tokyo.

Also being exhibited is the Subaru G4e Concept – a striking five-seater supermini with excellent packaging and featuring advanced, lightweight lithium-ion high-performance batteries stored under the floor and giving a 200 kilometre range.

22nd August 2007 - UK Press Release -

TOTALLY NEW IMPREZA – AN ICON REBORN

Unbeatable standard equipment includes: AWD with dual-range low-ratio transfer ’box, alloy wheels, climate-control air-conditioning, radio/CD player, height and reach steering wheel adjustment, foglamps, front and rear electric windows, driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags plus vehicle information display
Subaru’s eagerly-awaited new Impreza goes on sale in September, offering all its traditional strengths of outstanding handling and active safety thanks to symmetrical all-wheel drive but in a new, more practical package.

And while performance fans will still be catered for early next year when the range-topping, turbocharged WRX STI arrives, the initial emphasis is on the new 1.5 and 2.0 litre models aimed at a much wider audience.

Both enjoy enhanced fuel economy and driveability thanks to improved ‘boxer’ engines which – having their cylinders horizontally-opposed – give the car a lower centre of gravity for improved grip, reduced body roll and more agile steering response.

This is further aided by the engine and transmission now being placed almost 0.5 ins (10 mm) lower in the platform.

Most models are lighter than their predecessors and enjoy improved aerodynamics – down from 0.36 to 0.34 for the 1.5R, for example.

All new Imprezas share a five-door body which is shorter and wider than the previous Sport Wagon and offers substantially improved interior space thanks – in part – to a 3.7 ins (95 mm) longer wheelbase.

Interior width is around 2 ins (45 mm) greater, while a compact new multi-link rear suspension allows boot space to grow by a substantial 6 cu. ft to 19 cu.ft (538 litres) with the rear seat upright.

Subaru’s aim is to compete more directly in the European market with rivals such as the Honda Civic, VW Golf and Mazda 3 while offering the added safety and traction advantage of symmetrical all-wheel drive.

And in Japan – where the new five-door Impreza was recently introduced – sales were a staggering 3,829 units in the first week alone. This represents 150 per cent of the planned MONTHLY sales target.

The new Impreza’s elegant, restrained design gives it a sporty stance with wide tracks, broad shoulder lines and subtle side body creases for a quality look.

Premium touches include a gas strut-assisted bonnet, LED (light-emitting diode) tail lamps, a flowing Tribeca-like fascia design, double-stitched seat cloth, metallic interior decoration and padded armrest cushions.

The instruments are also sporty thanks to their clear design and subtle lighting while the extensive vehicle information display includes a fuel consumption indicator highlighting the new Impreza’s much improved efficiency.

Affordable, Attractive Range

The UK range goes on sale in September with the practical Impreza 1.5R costing an incredibly affordable £12,495 On-The-Road. An automatic version is available for £1,000 more. The previous Impreza 1.5R – introduced for the first time towards the end of last year – proved such a success that stocks quickly ran out.

Standard equipment on the new 1.5R includes: AWD with dual-range, low ratio transfer ’box, 15 ins alloy wheels, climate-control air-conditioning, four-speaker radio/CD player, front and rear electric windows, reach and rake-adjustable steering wheel, front fog lamps plus driver, passenger, side and curtain airbags and a vehicle information display (trip computer).

Equally outstanding value is the new Impreza 2.0R – also available from September – priced at £14,995 On-The-Road. Compared to the 1.5R, the 2.0 litre model adds: larger 16 ins alloy wheels, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, windscreen-wiper de-icer, xenon headlamps and heated door mirrors. An automatic version is available for another £1,000.

The Impreza 2.0RX adds not only extra equipment but also body styling enhancements such as front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a chrome exhaust end-cap and a rear bumper diffuser. The alloy wheels are larger at 17 ins and interior upgrades include ‘Smart Entry’ with an engine push-start button and satellite-navigation.

Also standard is a leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob, cruise-control and a 10-speaker radio/single-disc CD system. The Impreza 2.0RX costs £17,495 OTR with an automatic version available for £1,000 more.

Meanwhile, sure to delight performance fans is a limited quantity of turbocharged Impreza 2.5 WRX models expected to become available during November. Prices will be announced nearer the time.

Standard equipment on the Impreza 2.5 WRX includes 17 ins alloy wheels, front and rear spoilers, side skirts, a rear bumper diffuser, leather-covered steering wheel and gear knob, a rear limited-slip differential with Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, 10-speaker, six-disc radio/CD player and xenon headlamps.

However the ultimate model will be the Impreza 2.5 WRX STI – due in spring 2008 when power, performance, pricing and equipment levels will be announced. This model will be visually more aggressive than the rest of the five-door Impreza range and will form the basis for the 2008 Subaru World Rally Championship entry.

New 1.5 Litre Engine In Detail

Subaru has built an enviable reputation for reliability, long engine life and accessible performance through the design of its horizontally-opposed, all aluminium ‘boxer’ engines. This ‘flat-four’ layout gives a lower centre-of-gravity for enhanced cornering grip.
It is also ideal when mated to Subaru’s standard symmetrical all-wheel drive system because of the engine’s compactness, light weight and ability to connect with the AWD transmission in a straight line.

Now, the new 1.5 litre ‘boxer’ engine has been designed to offer strong low to mid-range pulling power, known as torque, while also having the ability to rev to high speeds for brisk overtaking.

So despite being the least powerful Subaru, the new Impreza 1.5R makes the most of its power and torque, providing comparable performance to most similar-engined lower-medium hatchbacks.

For example, top speed is 109 mph for the manual, with a 0-60 mph time of 13.7 seconds. Fuel economy is also respectable with 29.4 mpg on the Urban Cycle, 44.8 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and 37.7 mpg Combined – 2 mpg better than before. Exhaust emissions are also competitive at 176 g/km.

Power is now 107 PS (2 PS more) at 6,000 rpm and torque is 104.7 lb.ft at a low 3,200 rpm while the compression ratio is 10.1:1. However, the torque is greater at lower engine speeds than with the previous model, improving throttle response and flexibility.

As with all Impreza engines, the new 1.5 litre features twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank (DOHC) plus an Active Valve Control System (AVCS) which is a form of variable valve timing. This enhances both low-speed pulling power and high-rev response.

Also shared is an electronic throttle for more responsive acceleration plus centrally-located spark plugs, pent-roof combustion chambers and multi-point fuel-injection with an ignition coil for each cylinder.

Of special interest is the 1.5 litre’s bore and stroke dimensions, selected to optimise combustion efficiency for low emissions and fuel consumption while providing strong power and torque.

In fact, the new 1.5 litre shares its 79 mm stroke with Subaru’s four-cylinder 2.5 litre turbo engine. Naturally, its bore dimension is a much narrower 77.7 mm.

Other efficiency measures include low-friction, lighter valve springs and a 4-2-1 equal length, ‘constant-pulsation’ exhaust system which avoids gas flow interference and speeds up the warm-up of the catalytic converter.

Ten-Speed Transmission/Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

As with the new Impreza 2.0R and RX, the 1.5R has a five-speed manual gearbox with a low-ratio, dual-range transfer gearbox, effectively providing 10 speeds. Owners find this particularly useful when towing or covering difficult road surfaces as it provides extra engine-braking for greater control.

For the new model, the Impreza 1.5R has revised, slightly higher 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th ratios for improved high-speed refinement and enhanced fuel economy.

The symmetrical all-wheel drive system features a nominal 50/50 front to rear torque split. However, a centre viscous-coupling senses which axle has the best grip and varies this ratio in milliseconds according to the road surface.

This maximises tyre grip and handling accuracy, instilling confidence in the driver – especially on rain-soaked motorways or snowy country lanes.

New 2.0 Litre Engine In Detail

The new Impreza 2.0R and RX enjoy substantial revisions to their 2.0 litre ‘boxer’ engines which result in stronger low and mid-range pulling power, enhanced flexibility and improved fuel economy with lower exhaust emissions.

And while power drops from 160 to 150 PS at the same 6,400 rpm, torque is 7.4 lb ft (10 Nm) greater, recording 144.6 lb ft at 3,200 rpm.

The result is an improvement of more than 2 mpg on the Combined cycle with the manual now recording 33.6 mpg and the automatic even better at 34.4 mpg. Urban and Extra Urban figures are 25.4 and 40.9 mpg for the manual and 25.4 and 43.5 mpg for the automatic.

Exhaust emissions are also down, now standing at 199 g/km for the manual (was 214 g/km) and 194 for the automatic (was 207 g/km).

The 0-60 mph time for the manual is 9.2 seconds while the automatic records 11.3 seconds. Maximum speeds have yet to be confirmed.

Common to all new Impreza engines are twin overhead camshafts per bank (DOHC), four valves per cylinder and an Active Valve Control System (AVCS) which is a form of variable valve timing. This enhances low-speed pulling power and high-rev power.

For the new Impreza 2.0R and RX, the combustion chambers have been redesigned for increased tumble gas flow, enhanced tow-speed torque and reduced fuel consumption. Also for improved efficiency are a revised intake system, cooling system and catalytic converters.

The new 2.0 litre four-cam ‘boxer’ engine retains the same 92 mm bore and 75 mm stroke as before but with a lower 10.2:1 compression ratio.

New 2.5 Litre (WRX) Turbo Engine In Detail

The renowned 2.5 litre turbocharged ‘boxer’ engine fitted to the new Impreza WRX receives meaningful revisions to improve efficiency and provide much gutsier throttle response in ‘real world’ driving conditions.

Maximum power for the standard WRX is an identical 230 PS to the previous model but now at a lower 5,200 rpm instead of 5,600 rpm.

Torque (pulling power) is also the same as before at 236 lb ft but now at a more accessible 2,800 rpm instead of 3,600 rpm.

Significantly, torque at 2,000 rpm is now 221 lb ft instead of around 150 lb ft. This translates into much livelier acceleration from low engine speeds and an effortless seam of power in everyday driving. Power is also considerably greater from idle until 3,500 rpm.

These major improvements have been achieved thanks to a new turbocharger and intercooler with the oil pump, sparking plugs and tumble generating valve all being revised for greater efficiency.

On the transmission front, 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears have been revised and despite the lower overall gearing – top now pulls 22.6 mph at 1,000 rpm instead of 23.5 mph – fuel economy is unharmed.

The new Impreza WRX also enjoys a 30 kg weight saving and lower drag coefficient of 0.35 Cd instead of 0.37.
It has an identical 0-60 mph time as the old model at 5.4 seconds. Maximum speed has yet to be confirmed.

Fuel economy is now 19.8/34.4 and 27.2 mpg on the Urban/Extra Urban and Combined cycles while the CO2 emissions are 246 g/km.

Improved, Slicker-Shifting Transmissions

All new Imprezas receive slicker-shifting five-speed manual transmissions, while the optional four-speed automatic gearbox is more fuel-efficient and offers the driver the opportunity to change gear manually during sportier driving. The Impreza 1.5R now has a double-cone synchroniser for second gear giving a lighter change while a hydraulic clutch replaces the cable arrangement for smoother, quieter operation. In addition, the 1.5R has revised 2nd 3rd, 4th and 5th gear ratios while the WRX has revised 1st, 2nd and 3rd ratios.

A four-speed automatic transmission provides smoother changes with greater sensitivity to the driver’s wishes.

It is more efficient, saving fuel, because a slip lock-up device reduces wasted engine revs. In addition, advanced electronics – linked to an electronic throttle – match engine speed with the best gear for any given situation.

The standard low-ratio transfer ’box on manual Imprezas effectively provides 10 speeds. This is useful when towing or covering difficult road surfaces, providing extra engine braking – and therefore greater control – at low speeds.

As with previous models, the full-time all-wheel drive transmission features a 50/50 front to rear torque split on manual models and 60/40 on the automatic. However, the split varies according to changing conditions.

The manual Impreza has a centre differential with viscous coupling which senses which axle has the better grip and distributes torque accordingly to minimise the risk of wheelspin.

The Impreza 2.0R and RX plus the WRX benefit from Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control as standard. This has previously only been available on certain automatic versions of the Forester and Legacy/Outback.

Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control uses sophisticated sensors to detect side to side and front to rear slip plus sudden steering movements. It controls oversteer /understeer and potential loss of control by braking individual wheels and cutting engine revs – all in milliseconds.

On automatic models, a similar function to the viscous coupling is carried out by Subaru’s sophisticated Active Torque Split system. This employs electronics,
sensors and a multi-plate hydraulic transfer clutch. Again, on 2.0 litre models, SVDC is standard.

Finally, the Impeza WRX changes its previous viscous rear limited-slip differential to a mechanical one which reduces weight and improves fuel consumption.

Passenger And Pedestrian Safety Boost

Both occupants and pedestrians are well protected by the latest Impreza thanks to a whole series of safety measures aimed at achieving the highest standards of both occupant and pedestrian safety.

Curtain and side airbags are now fitted to all models together with driver and passenger airbags. Front seatbelts have pre-tensioners, most models have anti-whiplash head restraints and all front seats have energy-absorbing backs.

The brake pedal is energy-absorbing, being designed to snap away under severe impact, protecting the driver’s lower limbs. In the rear seat are two ISOFIX-compatible child seat mountings.

The passenger airbag is dual-stage which provides progressive protection matched to the severity of the impact and the standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) come with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). This juggles the braking force between front and rear wheels according to load shifts during deceleration. All Imprezas have front ventilated disc brakes and solid rear discs.

Outside, pedestrian injury is reduced thanks to a more rounded contour to the top of the front bumper, a gently curved bonnet and windscreen wipers which collapse, softening any impact.

High tensile steel of varying thickness is used extensively throughout the body, providing good crushability where needed while protecting the passenger area.

Not only does the elimination of the previous Impreza’s front subframe reduce body weight by 20 kg but the new structure better dissipates front impact forces.

Outstanding Ride Comfort Plus Precise, Interactive Handling

A sophisticated all-wheel drive system coupled with low-friction, long travel four-wheel independent suspension and low-centre of gravity ‘boxer’ engines have all contributed to the Impreza’s reputation for outstanding chassis dynamics.

Now for the new model, Subaru has devised a completely new platform with a 3.7 ins (95 mm) longer wheelbase, tracks widened by around 2 ins (50 mm) and a sophisticated multi-link, double wishbone rear suspension.

In addition, to further improve handling and roadholding, the position of the ‘boxer’ engine has been dropped by almost half an inch (10 mm), lowering the centre of gravity still further.

Other changes include a quicker steering rack with more rigid mounting and new design of MacPherson strut front suspension.

The result is a highly-absorbent ride with precise geometry control for accurate straight-line running over uneven road surfaces backed by extremely responsive steering and handling. The rear multi-link, double wishbone suspension liberates more luggage space thanks to its compactness compared to the previous rear strut arrangement.

And because it is attached to a sub frame via bushes, with the mounting section moved to under the floor itself, road noise is reduced.

The rear springs and shock-absorbers are mounted behind the centre-line of the rear wheels, with the wheel stroke itself moving rearwards – all helping ride comfort. A rear anti-roll bar is fitted to the 2.0 litre Imprezas.

At the front, the previous sub frame has been eliminated, saving 20 kg in body weight yet a new box-section for the front cross-member provides the same level of rigidity. In fact, the new Impreza WRX five-door is a full 30 kg lighter than the previous Sports Wagon.

The new MacPherson strut and anti-roll bar layout is based on that used by the highly-praised Legacy. It offers high lateral rigidity which improves steering response and cornering stability.

This is further enhanced by a new design mounting for the steering rack. Furthermore, special suspension bushes and attachment points reduce road shock.

The steering gear ratio has been changed from 16.5:1 to 15:1 for a sportier feel while the rack diameter is increased from 23 to 26 mm. The result is a more linear feel to steering inputs. A new variable capacity power steering pump is used throughout to improve fuel economy.

Wheel and tyre sizes have been optimised for each model’s suspension setting with the new Impreza 1.5R running on 195/65 tyres mounted on 15 x 6 ins alloy wheels and the 2.0R having 205/55 tyres on 16 x 6.5 ins alloy wheels. Finally, the sportier 2.0RX and 2.5 WRX boast 205/50 tyres on 17 x 7 ins alloys.

Generous Warranty

All Imprezas marketed by Subaru (UK) Limited come with the reassurance of a three year or 60,000 mile warranty plus 12 year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.
This is in addition to three years’ membership of Subaru Assistance – a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout the UK and Europe administered by Mondial Assistance.

The new ’08 Impreza Range is as follows:

On-The-Road
1.5R AWD manual £12,495
1.5R AWD auto £13,495
2.0R AWD manual £14,995
2.0R AWD auto £15,995
2.0RX AWD manual £17,495
2.0RX AWD auto £18,495
2.5 WRX AWD manual £ TBA

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Subaru Ireland Press release - 22nd August 2007 -

EXCITING NEW MODEL LINE-UP FOR FRANKFURT MOTOR SHOW

Subaru has chosen September’s 62nd Frankfurt International Motor Show (IAA) for their most exciting new launch since production of Subaru vehicles began.

Star attractions include the European debut for the completely new Impreza range, a striking World Rally Car Concept, New Tribeca luxury SUV, totally new Justy supermini and the world’s first horizontally-opposed ‘boxer’ turbo-diesel engine – due to be progressively installed in various models from spring 2008.

Subaru WRC driver, Petter Solberg, will speak at the Subaru press conference (Tuesday, September 11, Hall 8 at 2 pm) when the new Impreza-based WRC Concept will be unveiled.

Described as an indication of future styling trends for a world rally car, the WRC Concept is sure to draw the crowds – and conjure up speculation among enthusiasts and the press alike.

Also presenting at the press conference is Mr Matsatsugu Nagato, Fuji Heavy Industries’ Executive Vice President in charge of European markets.

He will unveil the completely new Impreza five-door in its 1.5 and 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated formats – aimed at appealing to a wider audience while still retaining Subaru’s distinctive ‘boxer’ engines and symmetrical all-wheel drive. Both technologies offer outstanding handling and roadholding with ‘real world’ active safety.

The New Impreza Range will go on sale in Irish Subaru Dealers, late September ‘07.
With larger interior space thanks to a new platform with new multi-link and double-wishbone rear suspension, the ride is exceptionally absorbent with crisp agile handling.

A surprise appearance at the show is a completely new Justy 1.0 litre five-door supermini offering superb fuel economy coupled with low exhaust emissions. The front-wheel drive Justy will go on sale at the same time as the New Impreza Range.

Other exhibits include the New Tribeca to be launched in Ireland late November ’07 – with a 3.6 litre ‘boxer’ engine mated to a very responsive five-speed automatic gearbox. The Tribeca will come as a seven seater and loaded with luxuries.

Also guaranteed to generate intense interest is a display Subaru Boxer Turbo Diesel engine which will be fitted progressively to various models from spring 2008.

The world’s first horizontally-opposed diesel engine promises outstanding refinement, smoothness and low weight for excellent handling. In addition, fuel economy, performance and emissions will all be class-challenging.

Also underlying Subaru’s commitment to developing environmentally-friendly technologies is an example of its R1e electric city car – already in use in Japan.

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New Impreza Book out now!

See the online book review in the books section..

 

 

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