SUBARU EXPANDS THE IMPREZA LINEUP, ADDING FEATURES AND POWER ... AND ANOTHER MODEL.

Big news for Impreza fans is that Subaru has added a new model for 2009 – the Impreza 2.5GT. Subaru also has upgraded the Impreza WRX. Plus, other changes and additions to 2009 Impreza features lists bring their own excitement.

Once again, Subaru has made significant revisions and expansions to its product line because it listens to its customers. Improved comfort/convenience features and the addition of another model are directly attributable to customer voices.

ADDED REFINEMENT

Although the Impreza was all new for 2008, Subaru found ways to enhance comfort and convenience as well as safety for 2009.

Interior

Inside, instrumentation and controls have been tweaked for improved legibility and easier use. All models have a red hazard switch, and the fuel-economy meter can be turned off.

Most significant of the instrument-panel revisions are meter needles in Impreza 2.5GT and WRX models that feature welcome and goodbye illumination. They light up when the doors are open and when the ignition is turned off.

Exterior

Outside, a power moonroof is new – standard on 2.5i Premium, 2.5GT, and WRX Premium models.

All models except the Outback Sport have body-color door handles and mirrors. Outback Sport has chrome door handles.

Inner fender liners have been added to the rear wheel wells to help lower noise intrusion.

Mechanical

Several features become standard on all Impreza models for 2009. These include Vehicle Dynamics Control, Brake Assist, and rear disc brakes. On all models with manual transmissions, incline start assist is standard.

Engines range in power from 170 horses to 305. Instead of one intermediate level, though, there are two. The 2.5GT has the 224-horsepower, turbocharged SUBARU BOXER engine found in the 2008 WRX, while the 2009 WRX has 265 horsepower.

IMPREZA 2.5GT

Similar to those in last year’s WRX, mechanical features in the 2009 2.5GT include a 224-horsepower engine on liquid-filled engine mounts, which help reduce engine vibration. Its sport-tuned suspension system has front and rear stabilizer bars, and the 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels carry 205/50R17 all-season tires. The 2.5GT has the same 11.6-inch front/11.3-inch rear disc brakes as the 2009 WRX.

In keeping with its GT nomenclature (which traditionally stands for Gran Turismo in Italian – usually a closed-bodywork performance car that’s intended for long-distance travel), the 2.5GT is available only with a four-speed automatic transmission.

Inside, the 2.5GT has a WRX steering wheel, sport design electroluminescent gauges with center-mounted tachometer and coolant temperature gauge, Outback Sport upholstery, automatic climate control, and tilt/telescoping steering column.

WRX – A WHOLE NEW ANIMAL

Check the specs.

The 2009 WRX has an enticing jump of 41 more horsepower. The increase was accomplished with a software change and larger turbocharger. The turbo is the same size as the one in the STI, but with a different shape to the compressor housing. Contributing to the power increase are larger-diameter tubing and low-density catalyst that reduce airflow resistance by 30 percent. Power to the drivetrain is through a 5-speed manual transmission only.

The new WRX has a track-tuned (read “stiffer”!) suspension, with front and rear stabilizer bars.The 17-inch wheels carry 225/45R17 summer performance tires – a capability upgrade from last year’s model.

Exterior changes include an STI-type grille and an Aero Package. The package sets apart the WRX with a distinctive front lip spoiler, front and rear bumper under spoilers, side ground effects, and an STI spoiler on the 5-door.

Inside, the upholstery has red stitching and a WRX logo on the front seats. The leather-wrapped steering wheel also features red stitching. The driver’s pedals and footrest have aluminum-alloy covers.

Subaru intends for the 2009 WRX to have the perfect blend of horsepower, aggressive suspension, and confidence-inspiring Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive for the performance enthusiast.

AN EXPANDED LINEUP

The 2009 Subaru Impreza model lineup meets multiple needs of the diverse customers looking at compact-size vehicles. With 4-door and 5-door models, the lineup’s range appeals to those people looking for economical transportation, outdoor enthusiasts, long-distance performance-car travelers, tuners, and performance enthusiasts.

2009 Impreza SUBARU BOXER Engines

	2.5L 170 hp @ 6,000 rpm 170 lb–ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm	Turbocharged 2.5L 224 hp @ 5,200 rpm 226 lb–ft of torque @ 2,800 rpm	Turbocharged 2.5L 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm 244 lb–ft of torque @ 4,000 rpm	Turbocharged 2.5L 305 hp @ 6,000 rpm 290 lb–ft of torque @ 4,400 rpm
Impreza 2.5i	•
Impreza 2.5i Premium	•
Impreza Outback Sport	•
Impreza 2.5GT		•
Impreza WRX			•
Impreza WRX Premium			•
Impreza WRX STI				•

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