Impreza WRX TR: Tuner-Ready and Wallet-Friendly

The Subaru Impreza WRX has been one of the most sought-after sport-compacts since its introduction in 2001 for the 2002 model year. For 2006, the Impreza WRX has been restyled and re-powered with a larger more powerful engine, and expanded to five models. For the street performance buyer, the WRX TR is perhaps the most exciting model in the line, which for 2006 also includes the standard WRX models and the new, more luxuriously equipped WRX Limited models.


The new Subaru signature front-end design for Impreza features boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses and a three-section mesh-type grill. The 2006 Impreza models are also distinguished by a new tail lamp cluster design.


The biggest change to the 2006 Impreza WRX is found under its aluminum hood. A 230-horsepower 2.5-liter turbocharged / intercooled engine replaces the 217-horsepower 2.0-liter engine used since the WRX model's introduction. The larger-displacement engine produces 235 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 3,600 rpm, compared to 217 lb.-ft. at 4,000 rpm for the previous engine.


Even more than the numbers suggest, performance is improved in all speed ranges, with greater emphasis on low-end and mid-range torque. The 2.5-liter WRX engine shares architecture and technology with the WRX STI engine, including Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing technology and an Electronic Throttle Control system.



Upgraded Suspension and Brake Systems

In conjunction with the more powerful engine, the 2006 Impreza WRX models gain significant chassis and braking system enhancements. Aluminum front suspension lower L-arms reduce unsprung weight to enhance steering response. (The rear suspension gained forward aluminum lateral links in the 2005 model.) The steering ratio is quicker than before (15.0:1 vs. 16.5:1), with 2.6 turns lock-to-lock versus 3.0 turns lock-to-lock for the 2005 model.


On all WRX models, new 7-spoke 17 x 7-inch aluminum-alloy wheels replace the previous 16 x 6.5-inch wheels. Tires, likewise, are more generously sized for 2006: 215/45 R17 versus 205/55 R16 before. The more powerful brake system employs 11.5-inch vented front discs as before, but now uses four-piston calipers instead of the previous two-piston calipers. The rear brakes are new, with 11.3-inch ventilated discs replacing the previous 10.3-inch solid discs, and twopiston calipers replacing single-piston calipers. Painted red and featuring the SUBARU name in white, the calipers also make a strong visual statement.



Transformation at SEMA

The WRX TR on display at the SEMA show will be transformed into an even more potent street machine when a Subaru of America Senior Master Technician installs a host of parts from the Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) and Subaru Tecnica International (STI) catalogs. Even before the transformation begins, this special WRX TR has been equipped with new parts available from Subaru dealers, including underhood dress-up items, a performance gauge set, STI shortthrow shifter, BBS aluminum-alloy wheels, MOMO shift knob, rear deck spoiler and fog lamps.


From the SPT catalog, the Subaru technician will install a high-flow air intake and cat-back exhaust system. From the STI parts catalog, this special WRX TR will gain front and rear suspension upgrades. The STI front suspension parts will include adjustable strut/springs, a pitching stopper, thicker stabilizer bar and a lower tie bar. The rear suspension will be modified with STI adjustable strut/springs, lateral link set, trailing link set and a thicker stabilizer bar.

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