Subaru Impreza: A Turbocharged Legacy (1992-2021)
Since its debut in 1992, the Subaru Impreza has carved a niche in automotive history. Renowned for its performance, reliability, and rally-bred heritage, the Impreza is synonymous with turbocharged power and all-wheel-drive capability. From the early WRX to the fearsome STI variants, each generation pushed the boundaries of performance, design, and technology.
First Generation (1992-2000) - The Birth of the WRX
The first Subaru Impreza hit the Japanese market in 1992, but the real excitement began with the WRX (World Rally eXperimental) launched in 1994. Designed to meet the homologation requirements for Subaru's entry into the World Rally Championship, the WRX was powered by the turbocharged EJ20 engine, producing 240 PS (236 hp) and featuring a robust all-wheel-drive system. Australia saw the WRX debut in 1994, offering a slightly detuned version for road use, producing 155 kW (208 hp).
The WRX quickly became a performance icon, especially with the introduction of the STI (Subaru Tecnica International) variant in 1994. The STI models brought upgraded suspension, larger brakes, and engine tweaks, pushing output to 280 PS (276 hp) in Japan. With the EJ20 engine paired to a 5-speed manual gearbox, the WRX and STI models became instant favorites among enthusiasts, both on the road and in rally circuits.
Second Generation (2000-2007) - Evolution and Dominance
The second generation arrived in 2000, featuring a more refined design while retaining the performance focus. The "bug-eye" Impreza was a departure from the previous generation's look, but under the hood, it carried on the tradition of turbocharged power. The WRX was now powered by a 2.0L EJ205 engine, producing 160 kW (214 hp) in Australia. The STI, on the other hand, continued with the EJ207 engine, pumping out 206 kW (276 hp) in the Japanese market.
This generation also saw the introduction of the legendary WRX STI Spec C in Japan, a lighter, more track-focused version with revised suspension, weight reduction, and even more aggressive tuning. Subaru also introduced the WRX STI S202 and S203 special editions during this era, featuring performance enhancements and limited production runs that made them highly sought after by collectors.
In Australia, the WRX continued to dominate the market, with the STI offering a thrilling package for those wanting more power and precision. The 2006 facelift brought the "hawk-eye" design, which became an instant favorite for its aggressive looks.
Third Generation (2007-2014) - The Hatchback Era
The third generation marked a significant shift for the Impreza. In 2007, Subaru introduced a five-door hatchback body style alongside the traditional sedan, shaking up the market. The WRX continued with a turbocharged 2.5L EJ255 engine, delivering 169 kW (227 hp) in Australia, while the STI remained the top performer with the 2.5L EJ257 engine, producing 221 kW (296 hp) in the Japanese market.
This generation introduced Subaru's SI-Drive system, allowing drivers to adjust the engine's characteristics for different driving conditions. With three modes—Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp—the STI could transform from a daily driver to a track weapon at the push of a button. The hatchback also provided more practicality, making it a popular choice for those wanting a performance car with everyday usability.
Special editions such as the WRX STI Spec C, S204, and the RA-R kept enthusiasts excited, offering limited-run, high-performance models that enhanced the car's already impressive capabilities.
Fourth Generation (2014-2021) - A Return to the Sedan
In 2014, Subaru returned to the sedan-only body style for the WRX and STI, a move that pleased purists. The WRX was now powered by a turbocharged FA20 engine, producing 197 kW (264 hp) in Australia, while the STI retained the venerable EJ257, with 221 kW (296 hp) on tap in Japan. This generation also introduced a new 6-speed manual transmission for both models, providing more precise shifting and improved performance.
Technological advancements included Subaru's Driver Assist Technology and Active Torque Vectoring, which enhanced the car's handling dynamics. The WRX and STI became more refined without losing their rally-bred edge, blending performance with comfort and safety features.
Subaru continued to release special editions, such as the WRX STI S207 and S208 in Japan, which featured upgraded suspension, brakes, and aerodynamics for improved track performance. These limited-edition models sold out quickly, further cementing the WRX STI's reputation as a collector's item.
Roo Racing stands at the forefront of offering both OEM and upgraded parts that cater to the entire range of Subaru Impreza models, from the early WRX to the latest STI. Whether you're looking to enhance your Impreza's engine performance with precision upgrades or seeking styling parts that accentuate its rally-inspired design, Roo Racing provides enthusiasts with the parts they need to get the most out of their Subaru. With a focus on reliability and performance, every product is tailored to help you keep your Subaru pushing the limits on both the street and the track
