2011 Subaru Impreza WRX: First Look

Jay Williams - 25/March/2010

Ōta, Gunma, Japan - Subaru has announced that it will officially launch its 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX models on April 1 at the New York International Auto Show.

The new models will feature a wide-body design, like the brand's iconic WRX STI performance flagship model.
The wider body gives the 2011 WRX an aggressive look and also allow wider track dimensions for better handling and stability.

Subaru say that there is around a 1.5-inch increase in front and rear track, this plus firmer rear subframe bushings and wider 17-inch wheels and tires deliver improved grip in the 2011 WRX. The standard wheels are now 17 x 8-inch wrapped in 235/45R17 rubber.

Both sedan and hatch are powered by a 195kW turbocharged, 2.5-litre Boxer 4 cylinder, petrol engine. Sending power to all four wheels is a 5-speed manual transmission. Maximum torque is rated at 343Nm @ 4000rpm.

The 2011 Impreza WRX uses the Continuous AWD version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. A viscous coupling locking center differential nominally distributes torque 50:50. Should slippage occur, this system transfers more power to the wheels with the best traction.

The Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) stability and traction control system is standard. Incline Start Assist, featured on all Impreza models equipped with a manual transmission, can momentarily prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when being driven away from a stop on an incline.

The new design for 2011 is based on a "wide and low" concept and gives both cars an aggressive look.
Curb weight for the 2011 WRX models has increased by just 15kg over the "original body" 2010 models, Subaru say that performance has not been effected by the extra weight.

The 2011 WRX models feature sharpened bumper corners and lip spoiler, blacked-out fog lamp accents, a newly designed front grille with black base, larger grille and bumper intake openings.

For the 2011 WRX 4-door model, the wider fenders are stretched out on the side more than the tail lamps. The new design details contribute to an improved aerodynamics.

Moving over to the interior, the 2011 WRX features exclusive carbon black checkered upholstery with red stitching. The compact layout of the double-wishbone rear suspension helps to minimise intrusion into the cargo area, providing more luggage room.

The 4-door model in 6.5-inches longer than the 5-door. A 60/40-split folding rear seat further boosts cargo capacity and convenience in both models and the 4-door also features a rear seat fold-down center armrest.

All WRX models are equipped with standard aluminum-alloy pedal covers and driver's footrest. Performance-design front seats integrate the backrest and head restraint into a single structure.

The standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel is a three-spoke, leather-wrapped design and features control switches for Bluetooth hands-free phone function.

Rounding out the interior is a new AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player that features Bluetooth audio streaming and hands-free calling, iPod control capability, a USB port and 3.5mm aux input jack.

Available as an added option is a navigation system that integrates vehicle information and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

As with all Subaru's side-curtain airbags are standard, as is a 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist.

Both sedan and hatch variants will be launched in Australia late this year, at which time pricing and specification will be announced.

Normally aspirated Impreza versions will retain the current sedan and hatch body design.

Related Links
- Subaru Liberty 2.5i (Road Test)
- Subaru Outback 3.6R (Road Test)
- Subaru Legacy GTk (2009)
- Subaru WRX STI Carbon (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI Spec C (2009)
- Subaru Liberty GT Spec.B - Tuned by STI (Road Test)
- Subaru WRX STI 20th Anniversary (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (2009)
- Subaru Impreza Sedan (2009)
- Subaru Impreza WRX STI (Road Test)
- Subaru Impreza WRX (Road Test)
- Subaru Impreza World Rally Car (2008)