Subaru Impreza 2006 Review

It is a stunning car that offers superb performance and handling, strong safety credentials and at $40,990 is eminently affordable. The fact that the WRX or a derivative of it has won a squillion rallies around the world is icing on the cake and then there is the way it sounds.

No "buzz bomb" like many other high performance four cylinder cars, the WRX emits a feral sounding bellow that adds to its appeal.

Now, the '06 WRX has moved to the next level with a DOHC, 2.5-litre, four cylinder engine and other improvements.

Not only is performance enhanced, the new WRX is smoother, more refined and respon- sive, easier to drive and produces fewer emissions.

It still needs premium unleaded to run right but that's a small price to pay for what this "mean and nasty" small sedan has to offer.

Retained are the gripping all wheel drive system, dual front air bags (and side bags this time), ABS and that certain WRX look that includes a distinctive rear wing, large bonnet air scoop and mild aerodynamic body add ons.

Added are xenon headlights, larger diameter exhausts system, electronic throttle control, new alloys and other goodies.

You can pick the '06 model by its clear lens tail lights and the new nose with prominent grille "beak" and "predatory bird" head- lights. Subaru reckons the look is aerospace inspired.

It may not initially appeal but grows on you. There's certainly no mistaking the car for anything else on the road and that holds appeal in itself.

Power output from the new 2.5-litre boxer engine is 169kw with 320 Nm of torque.

Gearing remains the same in the five speed 'box but throttle response is stronger through each ratio due to the greater torque output. The change mechanism has also been refined for a sportier feel.

Standard features are extensive but the interior looks fairly generic Japanese. Comfort is good offering supportive seats and an adjustable driving position. The audio has pleasing tones and cruise control is welcome.

It's a fairly practical car capable of taking five people and their luggage. But the WRX is all about sporty driving and this is where it excels. Acceleration is strong with a mid 5.0 second 0-100kmh pass achievable. Roll on acceleration is excellent and the thing is a hare out of the blocks.

Handling is a good match for the engine aided by the all wheel drive system, aluminium suspension and grippy tyres. Multi-piston disc brakes make light work of stopping the WRX while the limited slip differential ensures ultimate traction going the other way.

There's a keypad code to start the beast but it's totally justified and necessary to prevent theft.

The big question is whether you'd go for this or the STi version. My preference as a road car is the WRX as it's easier to drive, more comfortable, almost as quick around corners and in a straight line and costs $16,000 less. `Nuff said.