The performance figures are relatively unchanged: the naturally-aspirated engine produces 170 horsepower (3 less) and 170 lb-ft of torque (4 more), while the turbocharged variant stays put at 224 horsepower and 226 lb-ft. The WRX's turbo has been revised for improved efficiency.
Oh, and Subaru promises a 5-percent increase in fuel economy.
Where are the paddle shifters?
On the winding roads of Vancouver Island, the Impreza stayed true to its reputation. The "little" powerplant is as versatile as ever, especially when mated to the very user-friendly 5-speed manual transmission. I would have liked a shorter shifter and closer ratios, but I'm nitpicking.
Some will argue that the optional 4-speed automatic gearbox should have gained another gear so as to get on par with the competition. I have to disagree: with its new sequential capability, this transmission extracts all the power you need when the "Sport" mode is selected. Shifts are also more dynamic.
On the other hand, I don't quite understand why Subaru did not incorporate paddle shifters on the steering wheel with the WRX, as is the case with the Legacy GT or, if you want to be sarcastic, with the Mitsubishi Lancer. The company points out that manual-equipped models account for only 10 percent of all WRXs sales and, therefore, paddle shifters are useless.
Oh well...
With solid power and a 10-percent firmer suspension, the new WRX continues to offer the same levels of excitement that we're used to. No turbo lag affects the engine and accelerations are vigorous.
The throttle feels lighter now that it's no longer mechanically controlled (hello electronics!). Also, the clutch pedal is less spongy than the base Impreza's and allows a more energetic manipulation. However, the exhaust system (with single tip on the 5-door model!) no longer produces the same distinctive growl. Like I said earlier, this car is blending into the mass...
It sticks to the tarmac
On the road, the steering benefits from the previous WRX's quick-reacting settings, offering a good precision and a well-calibrated assistance. The steering wheel, in itself, offers a nice grip and proves to be fun to manipulate during each turn. The driver gets the feeling of being one with the car.
Oh, and Subaru promises a 5-percent increase in fuel economy.
 |
| Same kind of performance but improved fuel economy. |
Where are the paddle shifters?
On the winding roads of Vancouver Island, the Impreza stayed true to its reputation. The "little" powerplant is as versatile as ever, especially when mated to the very user-friendly 5-speed manual transmission. I would have liked a shorter shifter and closer ratios, but I'm nitpicking.
Some will argue that the optional 4-speed automatic gearbox should have gained another gear so as to get on par with the competition. I have to disagree: with its new sequential capability, this transmission extracts all the power you need when the "Sport" mode is selected. Shifts are also more dynamic.
On the other hand, I don't quite understand why Subaru did not incorporate paddle shifters on the steering wheel with the WRX, as is the case with the Legacy GT or, if you want to be sarcastic, with the Mitsubishi Lancer. The company points out that manual-equipped models account for only 10 percent of all WRXs sales and, therefore, paddle shifters are useless.
Oh well...
With solid power and a 10-percent firmer suspension, the new WRX continues to offer the same levels of excitement that we're used to. No turbo lag affects the engine and accelerations are vigorous.
The throttle feels lighter now that it's no longer mechanically controlled (hello electronics!). Also, the clutch pedal is less spongy than the base Impreza's and allows a more energetic manipulation. However, the exhaust system (with single tip on the 5-door model!) no longer produces the same distinctive growl. Like I said earlier, this car is blending into the mass...
It sticks to the tarmac
On the road, the steering benefits from the previous WRX's quick-reacting settings, offering a good precision and a well-calibrated assistance. The steering wheel, in itself, offers a nice grip and proves to be fun to manipulate during each turn. The driver gets the feeling of being one with the car.
 |
| Road manners meet expectations. |