2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI

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(from Subaru Press Release) Subaru of America, Inc., America’s all-wheel drive leader, has introduced a restyled and re-powered Impreza model line for 2006, also adding three new WRX models, more safety features, and a revised Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system in the 300-horsepower WRX STI®.

All Subaru models are equipped with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard equipment, providing a traction and handling advantage over front-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive vehicles.

The Impreza line has been restyled for 2006 to reflect the new brand identity. The new Subaru signature front-end design for Impreza features a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company’s aircraft heritage, plus boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses. Sedan models feature revised wide-body fenders, while the wagons have their own flared fender design, as on the previous model. All 2006 Impreza models get a new tail lamp cluster design, as well.

WRX STI AWD System Revised

The 300-horsepower Impreza WRX STI gains a further edge in all-wheel drive performance for 2006. The power distribution ratio in its advanced Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive has been changed from 35:65 to 41:59 and uses a new mechanical limited slip center differential in place of the previous hydraulically controlled unit. The addition of a steering sensor to the differential’s control inputs further enhances torque transfer and overall performance of the AWD system.

The WRX STI accents the Impreza re-style with new design features of its own. A new roof vane spoiler, as used on the Impreza WRC rally car, contributes to stability at track speeds. The new rear underbody diffuser and new side sill spoiler design ensure the WRX STI will turn heads while cheating the wind. The lower-profile hood scoop from the standard WRX aids forward visibility but maintains airflow to the intercooler due to the improved aerodynamics of the redesigned front-end. The WRX STI also gains daytime running lights (DRL).

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the horizontally opposed boxer engine and the all-wheel drive power distribution system that varies by model and transmission. The aluminum boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the vehicle’s center of gravity, which in turn contributes to precision handling response. All versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive power all four wheels all the time and will transfer more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.