Subaru Australia has announced details of its 2006 Impreza range. And while much of the discussion relating to the new model will centre on its controversial front-end styling, the big news is the adoption of new 2.5lt turbocharged engines for both the WRX and WRX STI, plus the arrival of a new naturally-aspirated 2.0lt DOHC boxer four to replace the top-selling RS model.
Both the WRX and WRX STI get significant mechanical upgrades in the MY06 model range. Now boasting 206kW, up from 195kW, the range-topping STI has also copped a 14 per cent improvement in peak torque – now 392Nm, up from 343. Euro 4 emissions compliant, the engine also gets a serious boost in midrange torque – Subaru says the engine has 33 per cent more torque at 2000rpm. Peak power is now developed 400rpm lower at 5600rpm.
The STI also gets a new torque sensing limited slip centre diff, a development of the Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) available on the MY05 STI. The new differential is said to provide more responsive and linear transfer of power when cornering. Front:rear torque split is now 41:59. The STI’s six-speed gearbox gets revised ratios and construction.
Along with the capacity boost, WRX also gets power and torque increases. The volume sports model now boasts a claimed 169kW at 5600rpm, with peak torque up 6.6 per cent to 320Nm at 3600rpm. Like its STI and 2.0R stablemates, the Rex benefits from a new big-bore exhaust and drive by wire throttle.
All Imprezas, with the exception of the STI, now get side airbags in addition to dual front airbags.
The MY06 range also sees the debut of the 2.0R model. Replacing the 2.5lt RS, the 2.0R features a new 118kW, 186Nm DOHC four with Active Valve Control System. The variable valve timing operates on inlet cams only. Available in both manual and automatic, sedan and hatch versions of the 2.0R get unique 16-inch alloys and a rear spoiler to differentiate them from the 2.0i base model Impreza.
Pricing for the Impreza range kicks off at $23,990 for the 2.0i manual (replaces the GX) and tops at $56,990 for the MY06 WRX STI – a price increase of $360. The WRX sedan is up $1000 to $40,990 and the new 2.0R is priced from $29,990-$32,440.
Keep an eye out for CarPoint’s launch coverage of the new MY06 Impreza range next week.