2005 Subaru Impreza Wagon 2.5L (WRX) 6MT AWD (230 HP)

Vehicle Overview

The second generation of the Impreza came on the market in 2000, and its design was so controversial that the automaker improved it twice: in 2002 and 2005, respectively, for the entire range: sedan and station wagon.

It was the third front-fascia for the second-generation Impreza, and the Japanese automaker thought that it could finally make it right. Also, since in 2005, Europe switched to Euro 4 emission standards, Subaru had to update the car. That means that the engine lineup was also refreshed. But regardless of those regulations and design tastes, one thing remained the same: the Symmetrical All Wheel Drive system. And that was a good thing, especially for those who took their Scoobie to the mountains during winter.

This so-called “Hawk-eyes” version of the Impreza benefited from the input made by the Greek designer Andreas Zapatinas, who formerly worked for Alfa Romeo. The new front fascia also included a three-section grille, whereas the center one was slightly taller. It was Subaru’s way of reminding people that once the company built airplanes. From its profile, the long-roof version of the Impreza featured a third row of windows behind the rear doors and a raked-forward tailgate to amplify the sporty look of the vehicle.

Inside, it was the same design for the front seats as in the sedan version. The rear, on the other hand, was different since it sported a split-folding bench. That could enlarge the trunk area from 12.57 to 44.71 cu-ft (353 liters to 1,266 liters).

Under the hood, the automaker installed a choice of three flat-four engines. The base model was a 1.6-liter powerplant that sent the power to the front or all corners of the car, depending on the market. From the 2.0-liter versions, all Imprezas were fitted with an AWD system. Strangely, Subaru installed a low gear for the naturally-aspirated versions.