The optional 4-speed direct control electronic automatic transmission in Subaru Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models employs the more advanced adaptive shift control system first introduced for the 2005 Subaru Legacy and Subaru Outback models.


Outback Sport - The Sporty Crossover

Subaru Outback Sport, which helped usher in the crossover category a decade ago, is distinguished by steel gray metallic lower body color, side moldings and bumpers, plus projector-beam halogen fog lights and 7-spoke 16-inch alloy wheels. Standard features are shared with Subaru Impreza 2.5 i Sport Wagon and also add heavy-duty raised suspension, a 12-volt cargo area power outlet, roof rails with cross bars and a rear bumper step pad.

The Outback Sport Special Edition enhances comfort and function with the addition of a leather wrapped steering wheel, auto-dimming compass rear-view mirror and armrest extension, plus a 140-watt AM/FM premium stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer, six upgraded speakers and a 120-watt sub-woofer. A rear gate spoiler accents the sporty appearance.


WRX Series Expanded to Five Models

The new Subaru Impreza WRX TR is identical to the standard WRX Sedan in terms of performance equipment, substituting value-oriented interior content and exterior trim from the Impreza 2.5 i Sedan.

The standard WRX Sedan and Sport Wagon models augment the WRX TR equipment with a standard automatic climate control system, a 3-spoke black leather-wrapped steering wheel and a 140-watt AM/FM premium stereo with 6-disc in-dash CD changer and six upgraded speakers. Performance-design front seats with integrated head restraints lend a strong rally car flavor. To that equipment, the 2006 WRX Limited Sedan and Impreza WRX Limited Sport Wagon add leather seating, power glass moonroof, dual-mode heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. Subaru Impreza WRX Limited Sedan in addition features a rear trunk spoiler.


WRX STI AWD System Revised

The 300-horsepower Subaru Impreza WRX STI gains a further edge in all-wheel drive performance for 2006. The power distribution ratio in its advanced Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) version of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive has been changed from 35:65 to 41:59 and uses a new mechanical limited slip center differential in place of the previous hydraulically controlled unit. The addition of a steering sensor to the differential's control inputs further enhances torque transfer and overall performance of the AWD system.

The WRX STI accents the Impreza re-style with new design features of its own. A new roof vane spoiler, as used on the Subaru Impreza WRC rally car, contributes to stability at track speeds. The new rear underbody diffuser and new side sill spoiler design ensure the Impreza WRX STI will turn heads while cheating the wind. The lower-profile hood scoop from the standard WRX aids forward visibility but maintains airflow to the intercooler due to the improved aerodynamics of the redesigned front-end. The WRX STI also gains daytime running lights (DRL).


Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a complete system comprised of the horizontally opposed boxer engine and the all-wheel drive power distribution system that varies by model and transmission. The aluminum boxer engine and simple, symmetrical drivetrain layout help to lower the vehicle's center of gravity, which in turn contributes to precision handling response. All versions of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive power all four wheels all the time and will transfer more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.


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