In addition to the power and torque enhancements, all Impreza WRX versions will share the new suspension package, producing even sharper, aggressive handling. It will feature increased spring and damping rates, and thickened stabiliser bars.

The Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Impreza WRX will also feature a new mesh grille and badge, distinctive red brake calipers and wider tyres.

Inside, red stitch seating will add to the sporty appearance.

MY09 Impreza WRX will produce 195 kilowatts (up 26 kW) of power at 6,000 rpm and 343 Newtonmetres (up 23Nm) of torque at 4,000 rpm, while fuel consumption is improved in the combined cycle from 10.7 l/100km to 10.4 l/100km.

Carbon dioxide emissions are down from 252 g/km to 247 g/km.

Recommended Retail Pricing (RRP) is maintained at MY08 levels – both hatch and the newly introduced sedan will start from $39,990 (RRP).

Impreza WRX MY09 highlights:

• 15.4 per cent more power
• 7.2 per cent more torque
• Better fuel efficiency (combined cycle)
• Carbon dioxide emissions reduced
• Upgraded suspension
• Larger turbocharger and increased boost
• Leather trim with sunroof, and satellite navigation options
• Enhanced suspension package - sharper, aggressive handling
• New mesh grille with WRX badge
• Distinctive red brake calipers
• Wider tyres
• Red stitch seating adds to sporty appearance
• Pricing maintained at MY08 levels – simple choice between hatch or sedan, as prices identical

Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said: "This latest model year Impreza WRX is a step change."

"We’re not only introducing big power and torque increases, we’ve dramatically sharpened handling too."

"We’ve spent a lot of time with the engineers on Australian roads and in local conditions, developing a suspension package that appeals to the driving enthusiast."

"The result is an Impreza WRX that is true to our core Subaru DNA, of delivering pure driving confidence."

He added: "Drivability of Impreza WRX is sharper and, combined with the power and torque benefits, this is a compelling, aggressive package."

"For the first time we’re also offering a leather trim with sunroof option as part of the regular Impreza WRX line-up, addressing clear customer demand seen in our retail network."

"The extra power, torque, upgraded suspension and other refinements on entry-level Impreza WRX will come at no extra cost."

"Equivalent sedan and hatch pricing will also be identical, making it a straight choice for customers between body styles."

Engine

A revised exhaust system provides a 30 per cent reduction in gas flow restriction, to match the new turbocharger performance and increase engine power.

Suspension

Significant testing was conducted in Australia and Japan to tune suspension settings for local conditions.

MY09 Impreza WRX is biased towards sports handling, while retaining good ride comfort, grip and stability when driven enthusiastically.

The coil springs, stabilisers and top mounts are stiffened and roll rigidity increased to improve maximum lateral G and turning ability.

Fine tuning of the damping forces in the shock absorbers provides linear response with minimal delay when steering.

Improved shift feel is achieved in the transmission through use of a ball type key for the first and second gear 'synchro' hubs and a change to the key groove on third and fourth 'synchro' sleeve.

Hardened materials are used for the main shaft and first driven gear, while operation of the clutch slave cylinder now incorporates an orifice valve to protect the drivetrain during rapid clutch engagement.

Steering

A damper valve is added to the steering gearbox to reduce kickback, particularly when cornering on rough roads.

Wheels and tyres were chosen to complement the suspension springs, damping and bushing, to ensure optimum grip and ride comfort.

The tyres also optimise the balance of dry and wet weather grip, steering response, NVH levels and ride comfort. Rolling resistance and stopping distance are also reduced.

Tyres are increased in width to 225/45 from 205/50, benefitting grip and handling performance to match the more aggressive sports suspension setting.

MY09 Impreza WRX is fitted with Dunlop SP Sport 01 225/45R17 tyres and 17 x 7 JJ alloy wheels.

Safety

In line with Subaru’s safety commitment, Impreza WRX sedan maintains the five-star rating for occupant safety from the independent Australasian New Car Assessment Programme (ANCAP).

All Imprezas also share the highest four-star rating for pedestrian safety.

Impreza WRX MY09 Recommended Retail Prices (RRP)