"A unique wheel mounting and bearing design produces optimum strength and
stability between axle and wheel, raising the cornering threshold."
No figures there, but yes, different!
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Subaru's Model Year 2005 Impreza range is bolstered by the addition of a
sporty 2.5 litre RS hatch and multiple enhancements to the rally-bred WRX
STi, taking its All-Wheel Drive abilities to a new level.
The ever-popular Impreza WRX now also has inverted suspension struts,
producing even better stability.
New, wider eight-spoke wheels are the most visible of a raft of changes on
turbocharged Impreza WRX STi.
For the first time it features a driver control centre differential (DCCD) -
allowing the driver to literally "dial up" the preferred torque split, when
in manual mode, or opt for automatic mode. A new front helical limited slip
differential is added too.
Steering response on Impreza WRX and STi also benefits from the new "cannon
mount" steering rack housing.
Combined, these features enhance steering feel and improve vehicle control,
especially on slippery surfaces.
Pricing on the vast majority of MY05 Imprezas remains unchanged - but has
declined by $1,000 on RS sedan variants and $1,050 on RV models, while
factory-fitted air conditioning is now standard in entry-level GX at
existing prices. Although this model will not be available until late
September, dealers are taking orders now.
A $2,000 insurance rebate is included as part of Impreza WRX recommended
retail pricing.
STi's legendary handling is further improved by stretching rear tread 10mm
to 1495mm and wheelbase by 15mm to 2540mm. Caster angle is also increased by
1.25 degrees. Together, these improve stability, handling and vehicle
footprint.
Aiding aerodynamic performance and under body protection, an underfloor
cover is added.
Rear bumper and rear wheel arch flares are redesigned to incorporate the new
distinctive alloy wheel design.
Inside, new seat side material provides even better occupant support.
Nick Senior, General Manager, Subaru Australia, said: "We are adding value
across the Impreza range, yet have managed to maintain and in some cases
reduce pricing.
"There's also the bonus of factory-fitted air conditioning as standard on
entry-level Impreza GX.
"The addition of a 2.5 litre Impreza RS hatch broadens the appeal of the
range and with our icon STi adding even more rally-honed technology, we are
confident of even more success for Impreza."
Impreza WRX STi engineering changes
The DCCD allows the driver to control torque distribution - once a position
is manually selected, the automatic All-Wheel Drive function is over-ridden
and torque split is dictated by the driver.
The DCCD can be adjusted from 50:50 up to a maximum of 35:65 torque split
(front:rear).
When in automatic mode, the DCCD uses input from a yaw rate sensor that
ensures optimum torque split when cornering.
A new front helical limited slip differential is added too.
Together, these features enhance steering feel and improve vehicle control,
especially on slippery surfaces.
To reduce kickback through the steering column, damper valves are added to
the STi.
The rear differential cushion spring rate is increased, improving handling
stability.
The STi's front suspension bracket housing is strengthened to enhance strut
firmness and accommodate the wider 8JJ eight-inch wide wheels.
Front and rear suspension links are now aluminium.
Steering firmness is improved in both Impreza WRX and STi, with introduction
of a "cannon mount" steering rack housing.
Increased diameter front and rear sway bars are added and, in addition to
the refined suspension geometry, this produces more stable cornering, while
maintaining high speed stability.
A unique wheel mounting and bearing design produces optimum strength and
stability between axle and wheel, raising the cornering threshold.
Impreza WRX
Inverted suspension is introduced, producing improved suspension stability,
while the use of aluminium in some suspension components reduces the
unsprung weight.
The five-speed manual transmission features a double synchronizer cone on
first gear, improving shift quality.
Impreza RS
For the first time, the 2.5 litre Impreza RS is available as both an
automatic and manual hatch.
Other MY05 Impreza refinement:
Interior
A new aluminium-look centre console design enhances cabin ergonomics,
including air conditioning control.
The front cup holder is relocated next to the hand brake lever. All Imprezas
other than dual range variants now have two front cup holders.
Three-spoke steering wheels are now a feature of all Imprezas, while the
diameter is reduced for all naturally aspirated and WRX variants.
On the windscreen, ceramic dots are added in the top centre, reducing sun
glare in the gap between visors.
Engineering
Brake hoses are changed to a lower expansion design, producing a firmer
feel. Brake booster thickness is also increased for better brake feeling.
All MY05 Imprezas get compact ABS 8-type, reducing weight, while retaining
the Australian-tested calibration to suit local conditions.
Cheers, Jason (remove ... to reply)
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