2011 Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan - Short Take Road Test

In the years since its 2002 U.S. introduction, the rally-inspired Subaru Impreza WRX evolved aesthetically like Barry Bonds, morphing from the scrawny-looking yet scrappy original to this version, the beefed-up and muscular 2011 model. Yes, there were a few stylistic missteps along the way, 2006’s funky nose and the softer look of the 2008 chief among them, but we’ve never loved the WRX for its looks. This vehicle has always been a blast to drive, and it got even better for 2009 when Subaru poured on 41 more hp, for a total of 265, and stirred in a raft of chassis revisions. The result was a 0-to-60-mph run of 4.7 seconds and more poise than ever; the only remaining issues were a tendency to understeer and styling too much like a regular Impreza’s. You may now consider these concerns rectified.

Updated Inside, Out, and Underneath

This year, the WRX sedan and hatchback receive the aggressive, wide-body design of the more powerful STI, including its quad-tipped exhaust. Track increases of 1.3 inches in front and 1.5 inches in the rear—coming in part from the lighter, wider 17-inch wheels (eight inches wide versus seven)—ensure that the newly flared fenders are filled. As expected given the wheel widening, the Dunlop SP Sport 01 skins increase in width from 225 millimeters to 235. The chassis changes are rounded out by stiffer rear subframe bushings.

Inside, new carbon-colored trim accents the top of the dash. We like the color, but among the dash, center stack, and console, there are three different silver/gray hues, which together look a bit chintzy. A revised audio system includes Bluetooth and iPod connectivity as standard; it’s the only other major interior change for 2011.

Read More: http://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/car/10q3/2011_subaru_impreza_wrx_sedan-short_take_road_test

Chicago Used Subaru