Upgrades For 2005 Subaru Impreza Range - Extensive Chassis Revisions

Extensive chassis revisions for Subaru’s iconic Impreza range deliver an even sportier drive, while the interior has undergone a thorough upgrade for a plusher ambience.

Biggest changes are to the high-performance Impreza WRX STi Type-UK which costs £25,995 on-the-road - £1,000 more than before.

This is despite the STi’s thoroughly revised suspension and all-wheel drive system which now features a fast-acting helical front limited-slip differential (LSD), driver’s control centre differential (DCCD) and standard yaw-rate sensor.

Externally, the only visual changes to the STi are subtle extensions to the rear wheelarches to accommodate the extended rear track, the deletion of red-paint for the inverted suspension struts and slightly wider gold alloy wheels in a new 10-spoke design.

Meanwhile, the best-selling Impreza WRX gains inverted front and rear suspension struts – previously only used by the STi. This sharpens handling feel and enhances roadholding by reducing wheel movement during hard cornering or when covering bumpy surfaces.

The ’05 WRX - which still starts from £19,995 OTR - can be spotted externally by its red painted brake callipers. Hidden improvements include aluminium front suspension lateral links - which reduce unsprung weight - and more rigid suspension mountings for even more precise handling.

Also aiding handling is a revised steering system with a cannon mount-type attachment for the steering gearbox and steering damper valve which reduces kick-back.