New WRX265 joins lineup with enhanced engine for significantly more power.
MISSISSAUGA, Ontario - Subaru Canada, Inc. (SCI) today introduced the 2009 Impreza WRX-now with a choice of two trim levels. Fans of rally-style performance can now choose between an entry level Impreza WRX and the new high-performance WRX265 with a more powerful turbo engine and a host of features engineered to enhance the performance driving experience. The 2009 Impreza lineup arrives in Canadian dealerships in September.
Both Impreza WRX models are available in 4- and 5-door configurations, but the new WRX265 is an even more athletic driving machine with features that include:
A potent turbocharged and intercooled engine that produces 265 horsepower and 244 lb-ft of torque.
A new power tilting and sliding glass moonroof.
Performance-tuned suspension.
17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels with Dunlop SP SPORT summer performance tires.
Premium audio system, including Sirius Satellite Radio and a 3-month trial subscription.
Tilting/telescoping steering wheel with integrated audio and cruise control switches.
Gun metal aluminum-alloy sport pedals.
"The Impreza WRX continues to be a popular choice for affordable performance," said Katsuhiro Yokoyama, president and CEO of SCI. "Now, buyers have even more choice, with two models allowing them to set their own priorities when shopping for an outstanding combination of power, versatility, and safety."
Every Impreza WRX is extremely well equipped with features that enhance its performance personality. These include air conditioning with automatic climate control and air filtration; tilting and telescoping steering wheel with integrated cruise control; heated, rally-type front seats; 17-inch alloy wheels; multi-reflector halogen fog lights; power-adjustable, folding, heated side mirrors; engine immobilizer and anti-theft security system; disc brakes at all four corners (ventilated in front, solid in rear); and Subaru's Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control systems.
Standard sound system on the WRX is a 4-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/WMA stereo with Radio Data System, vehicle speed sensitive volume and auxiliary audio input jack. The WRX265 is further enhanced with a premium audio system with four upgraded speakers, two tweeters, and SRS CS-Auto audio enhancement.
Powered for Performance
The 2009 Impreza WRX is powered by Subaru's 2.5-litre DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder Subaru BOXER that's turbocharged and intercooled to produce 224 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 226 lb-ft of torque at just 2,800 rpm. This engine has twice been named International Engine of the Year in the 2.0-litre to 2.5-litre category, most recently in 2008.
The new WRX265 is equipped with a 2.5-litre DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder Subaru BOXER with a high-pressure turbocharger and intercooler. This engine develops 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 244 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm.
Both of these muscular powerplants are harnessed to a slick-shifting 5-speed manual transmission. For 2009, no automatic transmission is offered on Impreza WRX models.
The WRX also uses a new shot-peen open-type rear differential. The shot peening process better prepares the differential for the added load, stress and performance expected from this model. The internal differential assembly (crown, pinion gears) is sandblasted with fine metal granules, producing a smoother, harder surface that is stronger and cleaner for improved drivability and durability with reduced gear noise.
Designed for Versatility as well as Performance
The Impreza chassis is designed to be both rigid and comfortable with high-tension steel at key structural points. The design helps keep weight down, while the 2,620 mm (103.2 inch) wheelbase allows for crisp handling and a roomy interior, and helps protect occupants from noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH).
Impreza's double-wishbone rear suspension provides a refined ride and a quiet cabin. At the same time, its compact layout creates minimal intrusion into the cargo area for a deep and wide luggage compartment. On 5-door models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two golf bags with the rear seats in the upright position.
In the WRX sedan, which is 165 mm (6.5 inches) longer than the 5-door model, the extra space provides for a larger, deeper trunk that will take three golf bags. On all Impreza models, the 60/40 split-folding rear seat boosts cargo capacity and convenience even further.
Standard 17-inch 10-spoke aluminum alloy wheels create an added sporty touch. The 4-door sedans are also equipped with red tail lamp lenses, a unique chrome strip that visually widens the tail, and dual tailpipe outlets, one per side. The 5-door WRX is equipped with a single, larger outlet.
The WRX preserves its rally heritage with performance-design front seats that integrate the backrest and head restraint. The sporty instrument panel uses electroluminescent gauges with indicator needles that sweep the gauge faces upon engine startup for a dramatic effect.
User-Friendly Technology
Both the standard and optional audio systems feature the Radio Data System, which can display a variety of information, including song titles and artists. The WRX265 has SIRIUS Satellite Radio already installed and comes with a 3-month trial subscription.
Auto-off headlights are a traditional Subaru convenience that can help preserve battery life, and the leather-wrapped steering wheel tilts and telescopes as well as providing easy access to cruise control and audio buttons. The Hill Holder System is also standard.
Outstanding Levels of Safety
Impreza is built using the advanced Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure with front and rear crumple zones. All 2009 WRX models also have a 4-wheel/4-channel/4-sensor Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. There are 3-point seatbelts for all seats (height-adjustable for outboard positions), active front seat head restraints, and front seatbelts with electrically triggered pre-tensioners and load limiters.
Every 2009 Impreza is equipped with standard side-curtain airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags. The dual-stage Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS) provides a driver's side front airbag that deploys according to the vehicle's rate of deceleration. The system uses highly sensitive g-load sensors and computer algorithms to measure the unique levels of protection required in a collison.
The passenger-side front airbag deploys according to information received from a sensor module that determines if the passenger seat is occupied, if the seat belt is secured, and the weight of the occupant. An airbag indicator light is located on the dashboard.
Advanced Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Traction Control systems are also standard. In a system unique to Subaru, it works in harmony with the full-time AWD. If the system detects understeer or oversteer, it will use AWD, braking, and reduced engine power to reduce instability and help regain control.
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
The foundation of every Subaru is the Symmetrical full-time All-Wheel Driving System. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a system that includes Subaru's BOXER engine and a full-time power distribution system with a low centre of gravity for exceptional handling precision.
The WRX and WRX265 are equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission and use a viscous-coupling locking centre differential that splits power 50/50, front and rear, all the time.
About Subaru Canada, Inc.
Subaru Canada, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Mississauga, Ontario, the company markets and distributes Subaru vehicles, parts and accessories through a network of 89 authorized dealers across Canada.
CONTACT: Elaine Griffin (905)568-4959
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