A renowned performance car brought back with a new lease of life…. in 5-door guise. Might be hard to swallow for some, but with refinement and improvements all over the key areas, Subaru seems to be heading in the right direction.
To begin with, this latest version of the WRX series looks meaner now. The front headlamps look like it is staring hard at you, and that “much-bigger-than-before” air-scoop seems like it will suck in anything hat refuses to give way on the road. Its rear is much sportier now all thanks to the LED tail lamp and that bumper diffuser.
With a rumble, the 195kW (previously 169kW) at 6000 rpm, turbocharged DOHC four-cylinder, 2457cc engine breathes to life. I engaged the first gear to get the WRX moving, but what surprises me most was how easy the clutch is now. It is no longer as hard as the previous one, and getting to its biting point is effortless.
The WRX is a hoot to drive. You can feel the turbo eagerly kicking in anywhere from 4,000rpm mark onwards, and once it kicks in, you get the feeling that you are flying off somewhere out of this universe. But somehow, it does not have that raw sensation that its predecessor had – well it seems the Subaru wants the WRX to be more mature lad now, which is of course not bad either.
It is hard to restrain yourself when you are driving such a lively car as the WRX. You will want to max out to the red line at every gear, floor the pedal at every straight, and just attack every single bends and hard corners. Sure, tyres were screeching and all that, but the level of stability provides a sense of security and the direct feel from the front two tyres to the steering wheel definitely provides a higher level of confidence for the driver.
The active safety list includes ABS with EBD and traction control, plus with that symmetrical all-wheel drive system, this WRX is one of Subaru engineers’ crowning achievements. The Subaru’s “Symmetrical All Wheel Drive” system makes sure the right amount of power goes to the proper wheels and eliminates any torque steer.
Like all Subaru models, Impreza models have been awarded the maximum five-star ANCAP (Australian New Car Assessment Program) occupant safety rating, thanks to comprehensive safety features including dual front, front side and side curtain airbags. The ANCAP five-star symbol is your assurance of enhanced protection in the event of an accident.
While driving the WRX, one cannot help but notice just how refined it is now – unwanted wind noise are better suppressed, cabin design and finishing looks a notch better than before, damping feels hard but comfortable at the same time and the seats are friendlier, making the new WRX a much practical car than ever before. The front two bucket seats provide much better support, although when sharp corners are taken, you just wish it hugs you a little more. The rear seat sit three adult passengers without a problem, but for taller ones might complain of the low headroom though.
Cockpit layout feels modern and sleek, with everything seemingly where it is supposed to be. It is designed to ensure protection and comfort, offering greater passenger and cargo space. The rear cargo area mat and rear seat back form a seamless cover when both seats are lowered. Cruise control comes standard now too.
This new Subaru Impreza 2009 is a new chapter in the textbook. It has grown up into something more mature – but despite its new grown up image, it still provide that sensational driving fun so raved about by most WRX drivers. Practicality ensures that it is a complete package, and the all-new interior is simply put, “refreshing”. There is not much to complain with this WRX.
Specifications SUBARU IMPREZA WRX
Engine: 2,457cc 4 cylinders Turbocharged
Power: 195KW at 6,000rpm
Max torque: 343Nm at 4,000rpm
Fuel grade: premium unleaded
Brakes: Front: McPherson strut type Rear: Double wishbone ABS EBD
Transmission: five speed manual mode
Fuel Tank: 60 litres
Kerb Weight: 1,410 kg
Basic Price: refer to Subaru retailers
Warranty: 3 Years / unlimited km
3 year Roadside Assist