Impreza AWD MY02

A sporty new112kW 2.5-litre RS sedan in October ’01 was introduced, which coincided with a minor specification upgrade on all Subaru models.

It included stiffened front suspension components, strengthened pillars, side sills and doors, better braking performance, a relocated radio aerial and slightly revised instrumentation.

The WRX gained an auto option, revised manual gearing and improved security.

Of more interest to enthusiasts was the re-introduction of an STi four-door sedan variant, powered by a 195kW variable-valve turbo 2.0-litre version of the regular WRX’s engine.

A six-speed manual gearbox, sports suspension and specialised Brembo brakes were part of the STi package.

But sales resistance to the Impreza’s round-headlight styling prompted Subaru to rush through a Series II update in December ’02.

The limited edition WRX EVO 5 – painted in a pale orange colour – included a factory-first sunroof option and a CD stacker.