| Subaru Impreza (second generation) (GD/GG) | |
| Manufacturer: | Subaru (Fuji Heavy Industries) |
| Aka: | Subaru Outback Sport Saab 9-2X |
| Production: | 2000–2007 (Japan) 2001–2007 (North America) |
| Assembly: | Japan: Ōta, Gunma |
| Predecessor: | Subaru Impreza (first generation) |
| Successor: | Subaru Impreza (third generation) Subaru Levorg (Station Wagon models) |
| Class: | Compact |
| Body Style: | 4-door sedan (GD) 5-door wagon (GG) |
| Layout: | Front-engine, all-wheel drive |
| Engine: | 1.5 L EJ15 F4 1.5 L EL15 F4 1.6 L EJ16 F4 2.0 L EJ20 F4 2.0 L EJ20 F4 (t/c) 2.5 L EJ25 F4 2.5 L EJ25 F4 (t/c) |
| Transmission: | 4-speed automatic 5-speed manual 6-speed manual (STI) |
| Wheelbase: | 25251NaN1 |
| Length: | 44151NaN1 |
| Width: | Sedan: 17301NaN1 Hatchback: 16951NaN1 |
| Height: | 14251NaN1 |
| Weight: | 13601NaN1 |
| Designer: | Hidefumi Kato (1998)[1] [2] Peter Stevens (2001) (2003 Facelift)[3] Andreas Zapatinas (2004) (2005 Facelift) |
| Model Years: | 2001–2007 2002–2007 (North America) |
The second generation of the Subaru Impreza compact car was introduced in 2000 and manufactured up to 2007 by Subaru in Ota, Gunma, Japan, in both sedan (GD series) and five-door Hatchback (GG series) bodystyles, as well as two intermediate facelifts throughout its lifespan.
The Impreza received naturally aspirated 1.5, 1.6, 2.0, or 2.5 liter flat-four engines, with the performance oriented WRX and WRX STI models upgraded to turbocharged versions of the two latter options. Export models typically received all-wheel drive, with front-wheel drive also available in the Japanese domestic market.
Built on a significantly modified version of the first generation platform, the new Impreza followed much the same formula as its predecessor, including a similarly contoured silhouette.[4] Despite this, the front-end styling—distinguished by ovoid headlamps—attracted significant controversy.[5] [6] [7] [8] This version of the Impreza has gained the nickname 'Bug Eye' among Subaru enthusiasts. Body dimensions for the sedan increased by 451NaN1 in length, 401NaN1 in width, and 251NaN1 in height; wheelbase increased by 51NaN1. To satisfy Japanese vehicle size tax regulations, the width of the hatchback increased by just 51NaN1 to 16951NaN1 and therefore remaining in the limit "5" classification. As Subaru had intended to homologate the sedan chassis for rallying, the decision to increase the width of the sedan—which placed it into the higher taxed number "3" division—brought added stability. Likewise, the 20mm increase in track for the sedan also worked to aid handling, with the hatchback gaining just 51NaN1. Other main improvements to the chassis included a 120 percent increase in torsional rigidity; mainly due to revisions in front subframe design. The suspension retained its basic MacPherson strut in the front and rear, although Subaru altered the geometry.
The GD chassis gains nearly 2000NaN0 in weight over the GC chassis. Subaru claims that compared to the previous model, the GD chassis is 148 percent and 82 percent stiffer in torsional and beam rigidity, respectively. This stiffness is primarily due to the addition of a steel "ring" which encircles the cabin at the B-pillar. While the stiffness was increased for passenger safety, it has the added benefit of providing more stability for motorsports events. Firehouse magazine notes that the Jaws of Life need to cut the Subaru's B-pillars at certain points in order to cut through the car frame.[9] In terms of safety, the GD chassis scored much higher than the GC chassis and earned a "Good" rating (highest mark) from the IIHS's offset crash test. 4 stars front driver, 5-star front passenger and 4-star side safety ratings from the NHTSA.
In Subaru's home market of Japan, the Impreza range started with the 1.5i—powered by the 1.5-liter EJ15 SOHC engine and paired with a manual transmission or optional automatic. Subaru fitted a DOHC version of the same engine to the automatic-only 1.5R, which also featured an active valve control system. For both models, front- and all-wheel drive versions were available. Starting from 2006, Subaru phased out the EJ15 engine in favour of the new EL15.
In Greece a turbo version of the 1.6 liter version was offered. It also had new mapping, new fuel injectors, new pistons a dual exhaust and a mid-sized spoiler. The engine made 180 hp.
Subaru released this generation of Impreza to North America in 2001 for the 2002 model year. The release of the 1690NaN0 2.0-liter turbocharged Impreza WRX, did not occur until the 2002 model year, and the Impreza WRX STI was delayed until the 2004 model year. The US version of the STI includes various departures from the Japanese and European counterparts, such as a turbocharged 2.5-liter EJ257 engine, rather than the twin scroll turbo 2.0 L engine sold elsewhere. All 2006 American Imprezas use some form of the 2.5-liter EJ25 engine since naturally aspirated and turbocharged are available.
The Outback Sport was sold in Australia for model years 2001–2007, but it was renamed as the Impreza RV with the same color scheme as the American version.[10] [11] The Australian version had a dual-range manual transmission, not available in the United States. The Impreza was Wheels magazine's Car of the Year for 2000.
After mixed reaction to the round headlight design, in 2001 Subaru enlisted the help of Peter Stevens of Prodrive, who updated the car's fascia in 2002 (2003 in the US for the 2004 model year), with more rectangular headlamps. For the US market, the facelifted Impreza was offered as 2.5 RS Sedan and TS Wagon, 2.5 Outback Sport Wagon, WRX Sedan and Wagon, and the new WRX STI Sedan. Sport Package was optional for the RS, and the WRX could be ordered with Premium Package. The RS, TS, Outback Sport, and WRX are available with manual or automatic transmission, while the sole transmission for the STI is 6-speed manual. This version of the Impreza has gained the nickname 'Blob Eye' among Subaru enthusiasts.
In 2005, Subaru made their AVCS standard on all engines used in the Impreza.
From June 2005 in Japan (2006 model year) Imprezas have been redesigned, along with new headlights, taillights, and bumpers. Greek designer Andreas Zapatinas, formerly of Alfa Romeo, penned the updated front-end in 2004. The facelift introduced Subaru's new corporate face, including its controversial "jet intake and wings" grille design that first appeared on the Subaru R2 kei car. The new corporate face was designed to pay homage to their aircraft manufacturing roots, the Nakajima Aircraft Company. This version of the Impreza has gained the nickname 'Hawk Eye' among Subaru enthusiasts.
In December 2000, Subaru updated the WRX to the second generation. The GDA WRX model also retained the 5-speed manual transmission gearbox design from the GC8. Subaru later released a new 6-speed gearbox for the STi model GDB that is significantly stronger.
The GD chassis, along with the WRX and STI, underwent two styling changes in its life cycle. The original styling applied to A and B. Initially this design proved to be rather unpopular which prompted a more conventional design for the applied C, D and E models. The second facelift applied to the F and G versions.
The WRX STi gained 17inchesx7.5inchesin (xin) alloy wheels over the previous 16inchesx7inchesin (xin) wheels, and the 5-speed manual transmission (reputed to be one of the car's weak points) was changed to an STi-engineered 6 speed manual transmission. The engine, retained from the Version 6 STi, still retains the semi-closed deck block and is still labelled as the EJ207. However the engines did gain AVCS, further improving their low-end torque production. The interior was updated with an STi logo on the gauge and the tachometer also has a red shift light. Brembo 4 piston front and 2 piston rear brakes came standard on the STi and were an option on the bare-bones Type RA STi, which still carried the Subaru 4 piston front/2 piston rear brakes as standard. Externally, the STi has a larger hood scoop and has foglight covers with the STi logo embossed on them. The DCCD was updated to work with anti-lock brakes. During braking, when the ABS is on, the DCCD will set itself to open-mode (no locking).
The version nomenclature was dropped from the name. Japanese and other auto-enthusiasts often refer to the chassis as GDB/GDF (the STi has a 'B' or 'F' (for USDM models) whereas the regular WRX had an 'A'). The fourth character of the VIN gives the revision (A to F where G is the 2007 version).
In 2000, most of Asia, Oceania and Europe received the new STi. The engine was detuned to meet emission standards. Engine output was variously rated from 2650NaN0 at 6,000 rpm and 35abbr=on0abbr=on of torque at 4,000 rpm,[12] to 2800NaN0 at 6,400 rpm and 38abbr=on0abbr=on of torque at 4,000 rpm[13] depending on the market.
2005 STis received the long-awaited DCCD control available in other markets, as well as a slight wheelbase increase to match the Japanese-spec WRX STi Spec-C and has 280NaN.
Aside from the WRX Type RA STi, the Sports Wagon STi also returned from the previous model, although it retained the 4 pot/2 pot Subaru calipers from the preceding STi while using narrower 17" wheels from the Legacy. Similar to the GDB, The foglight covers featured a white STi logo on them. The WRX Type RA STi was used for Group N homologation.
Along with the rest of the Impreza line, the grille and body of the WRX STi was lightly updated by Peter Stevens to give it a more angular look when seen from the side. The color of the STi logo on the foglights was changed to pink. Aside from minor suspension improvements and a small increase in torque output, virtually everything remained unchanged.
The Type RA was replaced by the WRX STi Spec C. This model was much lighter than the Type RA as it received lighter glass and body panels. The Spec C's handling was much improved due to an increase in caster (from 3.5 degrees to 5 degrees). This was achieved not by changing the suspension mounting point, but by lengthening the wheelbase by 151NaN1. This was done by including different control arms. This increased caster significantly helped the turn-in capabilities of the car. The Spec C also has a steering rack ratio of 13:1. The transmission is supplied with its own oil cooler.
The Sports Wagon STi had ceased production by this time.
The WRX STi was used for Group N homologation.
The WRX STi Spec C Type RA was released. It sported a carbon-fiber wing and a carbon fiber lip. It also had a new set of BBS wheels as well as a newly tuned engine.
The WRX STi V-Limited was released. It sports 4-way dampers tuned by Subaru World Rally Team's Group N driver Toshi Arai. The WRX STi was used for Group N homologation.
This was the first Impreza STi model to be offered in the United States. Subaru unveiled this model at the Detroit International Auto Show, only 1 month after Mitsubishi announced the arrival of the 271 horsepower Lancer Evolution 8, which out-performed the 2.0L WRX.
The WRX STi receives the same increase in wheelbase as the Spec C. All STis received additional rear arch flaring in order to allow an increase in wheel size. The wheel size changed from 17inchesx7.5inchesin (xin) to 17inchesx8inchesin (xin). In accordance with the increased wheel width, steering lock-to-lock turns have been reduced. Wheel hub strength was improved. The P.C.D. was changed from 5 x 100 mm to 5 x 114.3 mm. The interior was vastly improved as well. A whole new center console now brings out a very high grade interior feel.
The WRX STI Spec C's receives the Arai tuned dampers and a 211NaN1 swaybar. The rear suspension is changed from rubber bushings to pillowball bushings. The strut tower was further stiffened for improved handling and stability. The strut towers were reinforced for better handling and better ride characteristics. The engine mounts were changed from metal to liquid-filled plastic mounts to reduce vibrations into the car's cabin. Some 2006 owners have had issues with these plastic engine mounts. The manufacturer will replace them, under warranty if broken, with the 2005 rubber mounts.[14] The DCCD is updated with the use of a torque-sensing mechanism inside the DCCD. The torque split is changed to 41/59. The WRX STI Spec C was used for Group N homologation.
The WRX STI Spec C Type RA was released in November 2005, with 350 units produced. The Type RA added the following to the Spec C model from the STI parts catalogue: 4-way STI adjustable inverted struts, STI Japan-spec pink springs, STI rear lateral links, STI rear trailing links, STI 211NaN1 rear sway bar, STI rear pillowball suspension, STI 1101NaN1 opening rear axleback exhaust, STI 17inchesx8inchesin (xin) Enkei-made wheels and STI V-lip front spoiler.
For the STI, changes include a different turbocharger VF43 equipped with a slightly larger wastegate port to prevent boost creep (VF43, as opposed to VF39 in the older version) and revised gearing on the 6-speed manual transmission. They also use top feed injectors instead of side feed injectors like the previous STi models (04-06USDM). This means the intake manifold is a bit different as well as the TVG (Tumble Valve Generators) used for emissions on cold start-ups.
Suspension can be described as 'stiff' with torsional rigidity enhanced by the inclusion of laterally mounted items described as "performance dampers" bearing both the STi logo and Yamaha. As a result, cornering can be described as excellent. The addition of a carbon fiber front-lip spoiler and a rear diffuser on an already low suspension setup plus the use of low-profile Pirelli P Zero (Corsa) tires implies the S204 is intended mostly for sealed road use.
Recaro has used carbon fibre extensively in the manufacture of the driver and front passenger seats available in the S204. The high side bolsters provide significant support to the driver during maneuvers that induce lateral forces and are considered to be an integral feature to the cornering performance of this vehicle. The seats are rigid in design and have relatively little cushioning compared to other Impreza models.
Advertising material produced by Subaru for the S204 indicate that a limited run of 600 S204's were made. Individually numbered badges for each car are located within the engine bay and repeated as a small plaque situated at the base of the gear lever. However, five WRX STI S204 were made available to Subaru enthusiasts in New Zealand.[15] Unlike other S204s sent to other nations (for example 30 units for Singapore) these five cars do not display either the in-cabin or in-engine bay badging that uniquely identifies each of the reported 600 vehicles manufactured. The lack of individual badging for these five cars brings into question the real number of S204s manufactured.
Also added was a Suretrac limited slip rear differential. Japanese engineers claimed that drive would still be directed to the gripping wheel even if the other wheel was off the ground.
The Subaru Impreza WRX WRP10 (2005) is a limited edition version of the Impreza WRX exclusive to the Australian market. The WRP10 was available from late January 2005 and was limited to 200 units, featuring individually numbered badges. It includes enhancements to the wheels, tires, suspension, engine, and exhaust over a standard WRX. The 'WR' stands for 'World Rally', the 'P' for Subaru's partnership with Pirelli tires, and the '10' indicates the 10th anniversary of this partnership. STi carbon fiber engine bay strut brace and WRX suspension lowering kit with STi springs drop the car's ride height by 151NaN1. Together, the STi sports parts increase rigidity for improved ride and handling; giving the WRP10 a more aggressive stance. WRP10 includes an STI replacement Electronic Control Unit increasing peak power from standard WRX's 1680NaN0 at 6,000 rpm to 1750NaN0 at 6,000 rpm. Torque is increased by 20NaN0 to 3020NaN0 at 4,000 rpm. Be aware that the WRP10's STi tuned ECU is not flash-tune compatible as it's been locked by STi.
The Prodrive Performance Pack (PPP) is an official accessory for UK GD-chassis WRXs. It evolved from the WR Sport pack fitted to some RB5s. The 2007 version costs £1700 including VAT and fitting, raising power output from 2300NaN0 to 2700NaN0 and torque to 4200NaN0.
In 2004, Subaru of America announced it would sell the WRX STi. Subaru Tecnica International's president said in an interview with Road & Track magazine that he wished to beat the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution in the US. Thus, each iteration of the US-spec WRX STi is essentially the same as the respective J-spec STi Spec C. All part numbers matched up, including the part-numbers for the glass windows and dampers. However, instead of the EJ207, the United States receives the first EJ257, a 2.5-liter version of the EJ207. Unlike the EJ207, it features hypereutectic cast pistons.
According to Subaru USA, this latest STi piston is a cast aluminum design. However, this is a special hypereutectic material and it has an augmentation of 120% in terms of strength over their previous aluminium pistons.[16] The steering rack is the standard STi's 15.2:1 instead of the Spec C's 13:1
As with the Japanese-spec C models, US-spec STis received additional rear fender flaring in order to allow an increase in wheel size. The wheel size went from 17inchesx7.5inchesin (xin) to 17inchesx8inchesin (xin). In accordance with the increased wheel width, steering lock-to-lock turns have been reduced. Wheel hub strength was improved. The P.C.D. was changed from 5 x 100 to 5 x 114.3. The Suretrac front LSD in the 2004 model was replaced with a helical unit, the rear differential remains the same clutch type unit. Torque split is set at 35/65. In the interior, the Stereo became standard. The badging has been revised and different look was given to the steering wheel, shift knob, HVAC controls, and center console.
The biggest change was the 2.5-liter turbocharged intercooled EJ255 engine, producing 2300NaN0 at 5600 rpm. It replaced the 2.0-liter EJ205 engine used since the WRX model's introduction. The larger-displacement engine produced 2350NaN0 of peak torque at 3,600 rpm, compared to 2170NaN0 at 4,000 rpm for the previous WRX. Performance was improved in all speed ranges, with greater emphasis on low-end and mid-range torque. The 2.5-liter WRX engine shared architecture and technology with the WRX STI engine, including Subaru Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing and an Electronic Throttle Control system. The turbocharger remained the same unit as on the 2002–2005MY US-spec WRXs, but peaked at 14.81NaN1 of boost. The first gear in the transmission received dual-ring synchros to improve downshifts from 2nd to 1st and reduce notchiness.
2006 Impreza WRX models gained some chassis and braking system enhancements. On sedan models, aluminum front suspension lower A-arms reduced unsprung weight. (The rear suspension gained forward aluminum lateral links in the 2005 model year.) The steering rack was updated for improved steering feel and the steering rack ratio was changed to 15.0:1. On all WRX models, 7-spoke NaNabbr=onNaNabbr=on aluminum-alloy wheels replaced the previous 5 spoke NaNabbr=onNaNabbr=on wheels. Tires were 215/45ZR17 versus 205/55R16 before. The more powerful brake system employed 11.50NaN0 vented front discs and four-piston calipers instead of the previous versions two-piston calipers. The rear brakes were 11.30NaN0 ventilated discs replacing the previous 10.30NaN0 solid discs, and two-piston calipers replacing single-piston calipers. The calipers are painted red with the SUBARU name in white overlain.
The US-spec STIs receive the same facelift as the Japanese-spec STIs. Mechanically speaking, the DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) and the engine mounts have been changed. Like the Japanese-spec STIs engine mounts were changed from metal to liquid-filled plastic mounts to reduce vibrations into the car's cabin. The manufacturer will replace them, under warranty, if broken, with the 2005 rubber and metal mounts. Later 2006 vehicles were equipped from the factory with 2005 mounts. The center differential is updated with the addition of a mechanical limited slip mechanism to supplement the electromagnetic DCCD. The torque split is changed to 41/59. The oil pump within the transmission was also deleted. The 2006 STI weighs approximately 33500NaN0.
A 2006 model WRX was famously featured in the opening scene of the 2017 film Baby Driver.
As a cost-cutting effort, the WRX has its aluminum suspension reverted to steel-cast pieces. The WRX and Limited trim levels receive an auxiliary audio port next to the cigarette lighter and MP3 CD playback.
In 2007, quite a number of changes were made to the US-spec STI. Due to Subaru's decision to reduce costs by cutting the amount of aluminum used, the US-spec STI no longer receives the J-spec Spec C control arms. The control arms are now the aluminum ones used on the Japan-spec revision A and B non-Spec C STis. The high caster angle has been reduced, which in turn reduces the wheelbase from 100abbr=onNaNabbr=on to 99.4inches. The rear sway bar has decreased in size from 201NaN1 to 191NaN1. The gear ratios of second, third and fourth gears have been made longer (higher ratio) in order to improve fuel economy and drivability, which inadvertently reduces 1/4 mile drag racing times due to the ability to trap 1140NaN0 in 4th gear, without the shift to 5th. The transmission oil pump that was deleted in the 2006 model year was also brought back for the 07 model year transmission. The EJ257's cylinder heads have been redesigned to improve cooling, and the sodium-filled exhaust valves have been deleted. Pistons are the same as previous years. The alternator is changed from a 90A rating to 110 amps. The rear Limited Slip Differential is now a Torsen unit, considered an upgrade from the previous model's clutch type unit. The turbo has also been changed to the VF43, which has a different wastegate actuator than the VF39. The side cowl braces are stiffer than the 2006MY. The engine mounts are once again the hard rubber mounts used prior to 2006. On the interior, there is an audio jack that replaces the ashtray, a rear center armrest with trunk pass-through and a 120 W audio system.[17]
The STI's ECU was completely re-engineered in order to meet US LEV2 emissions requirements, which has caused throttle and timing issues. A secondary air pump was also added to help meet LEV2. Top Feed injectors replaced the Side Feed from the previous models.
The WRX STI Limited was introduced with fog lights, leather interior, lip trunk spoiler, and optional moonroof. It is similar to the Japan-spec WRX STI A-line, except the mechanicals of the car are based on the 2007MY US-spec WRX STI.
The RB320 was available only in Obsidian Black, and also features bespoke 18inches alloy wheels and specially developed Prodrive suspension using Bilstein dampers, a sports spring kit with revised rear anti-roll bar and a ride height lowered by 301NaN1 at the front and 101NaN1 at the rear.
Also standard was a chrome mesh front grille, front lip spoiler, quick shift gearchange, side sill plates and RB320-branded gear knob, carpet mats and exclusive exterior badging. Each owner will also receive an individually numbered black alloy tax disc holder.
The Prodrive Performance Pack (PPP) boosts power to 3200NaN0 at 6,000 rpm and torque to 3320NaN0 at 3,700 rpm. This reduces the 0–60 mph (97 km/h) time to 4.8 seconds and the 0–100 mph (161 km/h) time to 12.2 seconds.
Prodrive fitted their upgraded suspension system, lowering height of the car by 30mm in the front and 10mm in the rear.
A Prodrive anti-roll bar, Prodrive polished stainless-steel mesh front grille, a set of bespoke 18inches Prodrive alloy wheels – Silver on four door, Black on five door were included in the £22,995 on the road price.
Subaru manufactured a badge engineered version of the second generation Impreza hatchback, marketed by Saab as the Saab 9-2X (stylized as 92X), in the North American market for model years, 2005–2006.[18] At the time, Saab Automobile had been a fully owned subsidiary of General Motors (GM), and GM held a 20 percent stake of Subaru's parent company, Fuji Heavy Industries. The 9-2X was nicknamed the "Saabaru", a portmanteau of "Saab" and "Subaru".[19]
Saab redesigned the front and rear exterior styling of the car to integrate it with Saab's overall brand design language.[20] Revisions included modified front fascia, fenders, hood, tailgate and rear fascia. The interior received extra acoustic insulation over the Subaru, with particular attention paid to the firewall, carpeting, roof, and rear window seals. The majority of the interior of the 9-2X is identical to the Impreza wagon. Saab offered a two-tone seat design based on the earlier (second generation) Impreza wagon, as well as the instrument cluster from that car.[21] 2005 was the first year all-wheel drive was offered by Saab. All-wheel drive was standard on both the 9-2X and the 9-7X.
Saab also specified their own front seats incorporating active head restraints, unlike the fixed headrest seats in the equivalent Impreza WRX. The rear suspension arms are aluminum, with further reduction of unsprung weight achieved by using plastic in place of heavier components, bushings unique to the Saab, and recalibrated dampers. The steering had been made more responsive and exact in the Aero by using the 2006-2007 Impreza WRX steering rack, which features a faster 15.5:1 steering ratio, more rigidly mounted steering hardware, and stiffer chassis bushings.
The 9-2X is not particularly popular with Saab brand loyalists because the changes from the Subaru are mostly cosmetic.[22] The 9-2X also won the highest IIHS safety awards.[20]
In October 2005, however, GM decided that it would sell 8.4 percent of the company to Toyota and dispose of its remaining 11.4 percent share back to Fuji in a share buyback deal. The 9-2X was discontinued after the 2006 model year with the dissolution of the partnership between Fuji and GM.[23]
10,346 Saab 9-2Xs were manufactured during the production run, with 8,514 for 2005 and 1,832 for the 2006 model year. Saab offered the 2005 model year 9-2X with Subaru's naturally aspirated 2.5-liter EJ253 engine in the "Linear" trim level (165hp and 166lbft), with the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine shared with the Impreza WRX offered in the "Aero" badged model (227hp and 217lbft). All-wheel drive came standard with an optional four-speed automatic transmission available instead of the five-speed manual for both trims.
For 2005, Saab offered three options packages. The Premium package added leather upholstery and for the US model, xenon HID headlamps. When ordered on with the "Linear" trim, the Premium package also included the in-dash six-CD changer, front fog lamps, vinyl door cards, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. The Cold Weather package added heated front seats, side view mirror defoggers, and front/rear wiper defrosters where the wipers park. In Canada, cars equipped with the Cold Weather package also included an engine block heater. The Sport package added a sunroof, and for the "Aero" only, included 17-inch wheels.