Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced the more powerful, restyled 2006 Impreza 2.5 i and Outback® Sport models, featuring new engine technology and additional safety features.

Following an interior redesign for 2005, all Impreza models have been restyled for 2006. The new Subaru front-end design for Impreza features a three-section mesh-type grill inspired by the company's aircraft heritage, plus boldly styled headlights with smoke-tinted lenses. Sedan models feature revised wide-body fenders, while the wagons have their own flared fender design, as on the previous model. All 2006 Impreza models are also distinguished by a new tail lamp cluster design. An aluminum hood reduces weight over the front wheels on the Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport (WRX models already had an aluminum hood).

The Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models get a more powerful version of the 2.5-liter SOHC horizontally opposed (Boxer) engine for 2006. The addition of the i-Active Valve Lift system and the Electronic Throttle Control system boost horsepower to 173 from 165 while retaining the responsive low- and mid- range torque that Subaru customers appreciate.

On the safety front, all Impreza models gain the new dual-stage Subaru Advanced Airbag System, while the Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models also get the front seat head/chest side-impact air bags that were already featured in the WRX models.

The Impreza 2.5 RS models have been renamed "2.5 i" for 2006, making their nomenclature consistent with the larger Subaru Legacy® models. The 2.5 i Sedan and Sport Wagon models are the most affordable all-wheel drive sport- compacts in the market. Both models continue with the sport-tuned suspension, 16-inch alloy wheels (new 5-spoke design for 2006) and sport-design front seats featured on the previous 2.5 RS.

Also continued is the standard equipment list that makes the Impreza 2.5 i models among the best-equipped cars in their class: Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), air conditioning, power windows, power mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, AM/FM stereo system with single-disc CD player, tilt-adjustable steering column, security system, an outside temperature gauge and variable intermittent windshield wipers.

Outback Sport - The Sporty Crossover

Outback® Sport, based on the Impreza 2.5 i Sport Wagon, helped usher in the crossover category a decade ago. The Outback Sport Special Edition introduced for 2005 continues with its high-value package of additional amenities.

Outback Sport styling is highlighted by steel gray metallic lower body color, side moldings and bumpers, plus projector-beam halogen fog lights. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, 4-wheel independent heavy-duty raised suspension and 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels with 205/55 R16 all-season tires give Outback Sport all-road, all-weather capability. Standard features are shared with the Impreza 2.5 i Sport Wagon and add 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, function and style 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 sub-woofer. A rear gate spoiler accents the sporty appearance.

More Power and Enhanced Automatic Transmission

The naturally aspirated 2.5-liter boxer engine in Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models gains the new i-Active Valve Lift system that boosts horsepower to 173 from 165 in the 2005 models. Just as important, the new technology improves real-world drivability and performance. Peak torque output remains at 166 lb.-ft. at 4,400 rpm - still one of the highest torque ratings in the segment.

Using oil pressure generated by engine speed and load, the i-Active system varies intake valve lift by locking the tappet into a higher position by means of a transverse pin. The effect is that of having two separate tappets to act on the camshaft lobe operating the intake valve. Variable lift works on one of the two intake valves. At low engine speeds the two valves open at different levels, causing a swirl of air and fuel and boosting torque. At higher speeds, both valves are opened in the "high" position to increase horsepower.

The optional 4-speed direct control electronic automatic transmission features the more advanced adaptive shift control system first introduced for the 2005 Legacy and Outback models. The new system controls transmission shift points based on driver input and vehicle load to optimize engine performance. The slope control feature provides engine-braking control on descents.

Enhanced Safety

The Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models gain front seat head/chest side-impact air bags, which were already featured in the WRX models. All Impreza models for 2006 get the new Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag system. The driver's side air bag deploys according to the driver's proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight on the passenger seat - first determining if it's occupied, and if so by a child or adult - to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features a new "Airbag" indicator light.

Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive

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 center of gravity, which in turn contributes to precision handling response.

Impreza 2.5 i and Outback Sport models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission utilize a viscous coupling locking center differential that distributes power 50/50 front to rear. In models with the 4-speed direct control automatic transmission, an electronically managed continuously variable transfer clutch actively manages the power distribution based on acceleration, deceleration and available traction. Both systems power all four wheels all the time and will transfer more power to the wheels with the best grip should slippage occur.

For 2006, new control logic in the automatic transmission AWD system enhances stability by monitoring individual wheel speeds and reacting more quickly to wheel slippage.

The new control logic also helps to improve tight corner braking, contributing to more neutral handling response (reduced understeer and oversteer). The system provides enhanced traction on slippery surfaces, as well.