ROAD & TRACK Magazine / August 2000 Issue / Pages 66 and 67:
2002 Subaru Impreza WRX
"What's the most desired Japanese performance car in America today? The Nissan Skyline GT-R and Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution VI will certainly garner more than a few votes, but so will the Subaru Impreza WRX - based on the World Rally Championship car - that has wowed enthusiasts in Japan and Europe (not to mention a few of us here) with its awesome all-wheel-drive handling traits and tremendous acceleration. Unfortunately, Subaru didn't market the WRX in the U.S., giving us the less potent 2.5 RS instead. However, we hear that when the next-generation Impreza mkes its debut this year, a high-powered WRX will be included in the U.S. lineup.
Subaru is putting the final touches on the next Impreza, according to our friends at 'Magazine X' of Japan. They showed us computer-enhanced photos of a sedan in the midst of testing. The car is seen with an aggressive hood scoop and sporty 17-in. alloy wheels. Look closely and you can make out gold-colored Brembo brake calipers behind the wheel spokes. The Japanese-market car will pack a 280-horsepower turbocharged flat-4.
U.S.-spec WRXs will receive a slightly milder version of the engine - producing anywhere from 220 to 250 horsepower. We're hoping that the company's 6-speed manual transmission will find its way into the drivetrain. Despite the engine's lower output, Subaru says the 2700-lb. sedan will be capable of a zero-to-60 mph time of under 5 seconds and will run the quarter mile in less than 14.
With aggressively flared wheel arches, the new Impreza will be slightly wider than the current car, but overall length will remain the same at about 171 in. Wheelbase will grow to 101 in., which usually translates to more interior room. The next Impreza is scheduled to hit dealer showrooms in the spring of next year."