Subaru tweaks WRX styling for 2011

BY IRA SIEGEL For Sun-Times Media October 21, 2011 9:41AM

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2011 SUBARU IMPREZA WRX
FIVE-DOOR PREMIUM

ENGINE: 265-horespower 2.5-liter turbocharged H4

TRANSMISSION: five-speed manual

DRIVETRAIN: all-wheel drive

FUEL ECONOMY: 19 city/25 highway

BASE PRICE: $27,995

AS TESTED: not available

WEBSITE: subaru.com

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Updated: October 21, 2011 9:43AM



What really sets the Subaru Impreza apart from its competition is its standard all-wheel drive system and horizontally opposed Boxer engine.

The Boxer engine, which has its pistons moving horizontally instead of vertically, provides a much lower center of gravity. This improves handling characteristics.

Back that unique engine with a phenomenal all-wheel drive system that automatically sends the power to the wheels with grip and you have a recipe for a car that’s fun to drive and confident on slippery road surfaces.

Of course, if you want to take fun to a much higher level in the Impreza lineup, the WRX is ready to put a smile on your face.

The 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX features an intercooled turbocharged Boxer engine that delivers 265 horsepower, a sport-tuned four-wheel fully independent suspension with front and rear stabilizer bars, and a five-speed manual transmission with incline start assist.

And if that’s not enough for you, the WRX STI features a 305-horsepower intercooled turbocharged Boxer engine, a quick-shifting close-ratio six-speed manual transmission, a high-performance track-tuned suspension, Brembo brakes and a driver-controlled center differential that enables the driver to define how the Subaru AWD system distributes power.

While not everyone can afford the WRX STI’s $34,000 to $37,000 price tag, the WRX’s $25,000 entry price is definitely within reach.

And for 2011, the WRX now features STI-inspired styling, including the STI’s wide-body fenders. This not only makes the WRX attractive but it also enables wider wheels and wider track dimensions.

While it’s not as fast as the STI, the WRX is no slouch. I like its new look regardless of whether you choose the four-door or five-door model.

The WRX’s awesome sporty styling is an attention grabber. The hood scoop, snazzy wheels and quad exhaust outlets make the WRX pleasing to the eyes.

Of course, soon after you get done admiring its physique you’ll want to take the WRX for a spin. Its 265-horsepower engine, manual gearbox and sport-tuned suspension will have you smiling.

I liked the five-speed manual gearbox’s incline start assist. Formerly known as “hill-holder clutch,” the incline start assist keeps the car from rolling backward after coming to a stop on an incline.

There’s plenty of power from the WRX’s engine. The turbo spools up quickly and the engine’s power quickly pushes you back in the seat. Whether you’re taking off from a dead stop or dropping a gear to make a pass, the WRX has delightful energy.

And there’s no need to worry about slippery pavement. Subaru’s phenomenal all-wheel drive system automatically and seamlessly directs power to the wheels with grip, making it much less stressful driving a car with this much power on slick pavement.

While the suspension is tuned to provide minimal body roll in corners, it’s not too stiff and jarring when driving over rough pavement.

The cabin is pleasing, too. There’s enough room for 6-footers and a new audio system with steering wheel controls is standard across the line.

The WRX is a fun car to drive that won’t put a huge dent in your wallet. Of course, if you have deeper pockets and greater desires, go for the STI.

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