Segment:
Compact Performance Sedan/Wagon
Usp:
All-wheel drive, turbocharged performance, rally heritage
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Ford Focus RS (later models), Volkswagen Golf GTI (later models)
Performance Engine:
Iconic EJ20 turbocharged boxer engine
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system
Handling:
Renowned for its sharp handling and rally-bred chassis dynamics
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD) available on some variants for adjustable torque split
Engine:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, turbocharger system
Transmission:
Manual transmission (Type RA, DCCD variations), clutch system, driveline, transfer case
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, front and rear brake components, parking brake
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, wheel alignment
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, struts, springs, sway bars
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrument cluster, wiring diagrams, ECU, sensors
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system, components, and diagnostics
Body:
Exterior panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, body sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, timing belt replacement (if applicable to specific EJ20 variant), brake fluid flush
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, suspension component replacement, brake caliper servicing, turbocharger replacement, electrical component repair
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (OBD-I/OBD-II depending on market), symptom-based diagnostics
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to full engine and drivetrain rebuilds, including detailed diagnostic procedures and wiring diagrams
Engine Type:
Horizontally-opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder, turbocharged, intercooled
Displacement:
2.0 Liters (1994 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
92.0 mm x 75.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.0:1 or 8.5:1 (variant dependent)
Redline:
Approx. 7500 RPM
Horsepower Usdm:
215-227 hp @ 6000 RPM (1999-2000 US Market)
Torque Usdm:
210-215 lb-ft @ 4000 RPM (1999-2000 US Market)
Horsepower Jdm:
250-280 PS (184-206 kW) for various JDM models (e.g., Type RA, STi)
Turbocharger:
Mitsubishi TD04-13T or similar (variant dependent)
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded premium gasoline (91+ octane recommended)
Ignition System:
Electronic ignition with distributor (early models) or Coil-on-Plug (later within generation)
Type:
5-speed manual transmission
Type:
4-speed automatic transmission (less common on WRX models)
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Centre Differential (available on certain trims, e.g., STi)
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling front differential and limited-slip rear differential (or DCCD)
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (or equivalent API GL-5, 75W-90)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.7 liters (3.9 US quarts)
NHTSA Front Crash:
Not extensively tested under modern standards; likely average for its era.
IIHS:
Similar to NHTSA, limited specific data for this era.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on WRX models)
Traction Control:
Not typically standard on these early WRX models.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts with pre-tensioners
Chassis Structure:
Reinforced safety cell and crumple zones characteristic of Subaru design
Audio System:
Factory fitted AM/FM/Cassette or CD player (often with 4 speakers)
Display:
Analog gauges, basic digital clock
Cruise Control:
Available on most models
Auxiliary Input:
Not standard; aftermarket solutions common
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with diagnostic port (OBD-I or OBD-II depending on market/spec)
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe use recommended for performance driving)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 60,000-100,000 miles or 7-10 years (crucial for EJ engines)
Coolant Flush:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles or 2-4 years
Engine Oil Type:
5W-30 or 10W-30 synthetic blend or full synthetic (check owner's manual for specific viscosity recommendations)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (blue) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4
Engine Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on the EJ20G than later EJ25s, early signs of coolant leaks or milky oil should be investigated. The manual will detail inspection procedures.
Turbo Failures:
Can occur due to oil starvation or contamination; regular oil changes are critical. Manual provides turbo removal and inspection procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Performance driving can accelerate clutch wear; the manual covers clutch inspection and replacement.
Suspension Bushings:
Wear can lead to imprecise handling; manual details replacement procedures for various bushings.
Rally Success:
Directly derived from Subaru's multiple World Rally Championship (WRC) wins, cementing its performance credentials.
Performance Car Of The Year:
Often lauded by automotive publications for its blend of performance, handling, and AWD capability in its segment.
User Reviews Era:
Praised for its raw driving experience, acceleration, and grip, but criticized for interior refinement compared to some rivals.