It seems that Subaru has had enough of the reminders from fans who reckon that the current Impreza WRX is just not pretty enough. In an effort to silence those critics, Subaru has announced that the WRX will now feature the same wide-body design as the flagship STI model. Don't celebrate too quickly though, because Subaru is only releasing the facelifted WRX in the US, so for now we will just have to wait and see if it will ever hit our shores.
Due to the updated bits, Subaru has been able to increase the front and rear track by approximately 38mm. Further additions include firmer rear sub-frame bushings and wider 17-inch wheels. Subaru says these revisions will improve grip on the WRX.
Interestingly, the new STI wide-body trim actually increases the kerb weight of the WRX by more than 15kg; despite this weight gain Subaru claims that the updated cars "preserve their powerful acceleration performance." However, the updated WRX will not see any power hikes, as the 261bhp, 2.5-litre boxer engine remains unchanged.
The 2011 Subaru Impreza WRX goes on sale in the summer (US only...sorry).
Lee Pickering - 6 Apr 2010