2009 Subaru Impreza WRX first details
*21/07/08 Update* Subaru Australia says details of the MY09 model are still unconfirmed whilst talks are still progressing with Japan. Currently no definite timeline for an official announcement.
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Japanese AWD expert Subaru is about to get serious with the WRX again, if a leaked memo posted on the North American Subaru Impreza Owners Club (NOSIAC) forums is genuine.
According to the memo there will be a whole list of additional features for the WRX, including a new model (called Impreza GT) as well as a power boost for the manual WRX.
The biggest update will be the availability of an automatic WRX (Impreza GT), we are unsure whether this will be a five-speed or the four-speed currently available in the lower spec Imprezas.
The all-new Impreza GT will keep the current 169kW 2.5-litre turbocharged boxer engine from current WRX but, the memo says the new manual MY09 model will have a massive power boost to bring it closer to 198kW!
We are not willing to say this is true, Subaru Australia has been contacted for comment, however, such a massive powerboost would put the car much closer to its more hardcore brother the Impreza STi (221kW).
Although, given the Ralliart Lancer is expected to be powered by the EVO X engine and have nearly 200kW of power, we suspect Subaru may be preparing for a showdown.
The standard manual transmission models will also feature a new suspension system as well as an STI-type front grille (although given AU models have a slightly different grille already, this may not happen here). Other modifications include new alloy wheels and the option for a new moonroof in the premium package.
Would 198kW of power change your mind about the WRX?
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