2009 Subaru WRX upgraded to 265hp
Jul 18, 2008 | 07:42 AM
#1
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From: Charlotte, NC
2009 Subaru WRX upgraded to 265hp
http://www.autoblog.com/2008/07/18/2...ded-to-265-hp/
Originally Posted by Autoblog
A forum member at NASIOC has posted a corporate communiqué supposedly sent to North American Subaru dealers announcing the forthcoming arrival of the 2009 Impreza WRX. Two models are outlined in the release, the first, a new model dubbed the Impreza GT, will only be available with an automatic transmission and the 224 hp engine from the WRX. But that's not the real news...
The 2009 WRX's turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer will get a boost in output to 265 hp (41 hp more than the 2008 model) and will only be available with a manual gearbox. The '09 WRX will also feature an upgraded suspension (no details), an STI-style front grille, standard aero kit and a new grey wheel package, along with red stitching on the steering wheel and seats.
The memo also mentions the inclusion of a moonroof on models equipped with the premium package, along with some undisclosed changes on vehicles equipped with the ivory interior.
While owners of the 2008 WRX might feel slighted, it's nice to know that Subaru is stepping up its game on the eve of the release of the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
The 2009 WRX's turbocharged 2.5-liter boxer will get a boost in output to 265 hp (41 hp more than the 2008 model) and will only be available with a manual gearbox. The '09 WRX will also feature an upgraded suspension (no details), an STI-style front grille, standard aero kit and a new grey wheel package, along with red stitching on the steering wheel and seats.
The memo also mentions the inclusion of a moonroof on models equipped with the premium package, along with some undisclosed changes on vehicles equipped with the ivory interior.
While owners of the 2008 WRX might feel slighted, it's nice to know that Subaru is stepping up its game on the eve of the release of the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.
Last edited by sleeper3; Jul 18, 2008 at 08:15 AM.
Jul 18, 2008 | 09:47 AM
#2
These guys (Subaru engineers) crack me up.. the moment the know Mitsubishi is putting the Ralliart in the market in September then they panic and release a more powerfull WRX otherwise they know they will lose customers to the new Ralliart. Is that simple.
Carlos
Carlos
Jul 18, 2008 | 09:56 AM
#3
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Can you blame them though? It's called marketing strategy. It makes sense. In the end, they're all businesses trying to make money. That means you better be paying attention to what the competition is doing. Plus, come on, look at the 08 wrx. It's flop from what I read. This will be a good way to re-attract some old buyers, and bring excitement back to the wrx.
Jul 18, 2008 | 11:05 AM
#4
This is great news for the consumers of both brands competition drives perfomance and value. The WRX for the first time has true competion in the new Ralliart. Lets see how the market and Mitsubishi respond, we can't lose.
Jul 18, 2008 | 11:53 AM
#6
But it still looks like a POS kia/ hyundai. FAIL 
The whole look of the subaru line-up has gone downhill faster than a fat kid on a tricycle ever since the tribeca and 06-07 wrx/sti.
I love the advertising picture of the WRX with a "GIRL" driving it.
The whole look of the subaru line-up has gone downhill faster than a fat kid on a tricycle ever since the tribeca and 06-07 wrx/sti.
I love the advertising picture of the WRX with a "GIRL" driving it.
Last edited by ducker; Jul 18, 2008 at 11:57 AM.
Jul 18, 2008 | 07:30 PM
#7
Considering the current WRX competes with the Ralliart almost spec for spec, I expect the 40 hp bump to put the WRX firmly in the lead (since it will both weigh less and have more power).
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Jul 18, 2008 | 07:38 PM
#9
Jul 18, 2008 | 07:43 PM
#10
And good looks will never make up for lackluster performance. If the Ralliart costs more than the WRX but is slower, heavier, and less nimble, how can it expect to dominate the entry-level performance sedan market?
The transmission is similar to the one in the MR but not identical. It doesn't have launch control or the coveted supersport mode.
The transmission is similar to the one in the MR but not identical. It doesn't have launch control or the coveted supersport mode.
Jul 18, 2008 | 08:14 PM
#12
Good looks do not make up for crappy performance, it's somewhat ironic that an evo owner would even suggest that. Let's face it, neither the evo nor the STi are exactly good looking cars, they never have and never will be. If the evo came with a 150 hp engine, people would laugh at it and it would never have obtained the cult status it has today.
Subaru's sales are actually up quite a bit from last year, I'm not sure how Mitsubishi is doing. I've only seen maybe 3 evos driving around while I'm seen a good dozen STIs.
Subaru's sales are actually up quite a bit from last year, I'm not sure how Mitsubishi is doing. I've only seen maybe 3 evos driving around while I'm seen a good dozen STIs.
Jul 18, 2008 | 08:21 PM
#13
yeah go figure that you only see a few evos you live in Canada. They were just allowed over there.
W/e though back on topic, I think its a good idea to upgrade, curious to see if they do something with the sti verison.
W/e though back on topic, I think its a good idea to upgrade, curious to see if they do something with the sti verison.
