Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Wagon ( Rally-bred homologation special)
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Volkswagen Golf GTI (in spirit), Ford Focus RS
Performance Focus:
Engineered for rally racing homologation, emphasizing power, handling, and all-wheel-drive capability.
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) for advanced traction management.
Braking System:
Iconic Brembo braking system for superior stopping power and heat management.
Engine:
EJ257 (2.5L Turbocharged Boxer, DCCD variations)
Powertrain:
Manual Transmission (6-speed), Clutch, Drivetrain (Symmetrical AWD, DCCD, Helical LSD, Driver Controlled Center Differential)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear Multi-link independent, STI-specific tuning, Dampers, Springs, Bushings
Brakes:
Front Brembo 4-piston calipers, Rear Brembo 2-piston calipers, ABS, Brake Booster, Master Cylinder
Electrical:
Wiring Diagrams, ECU, Sensors, Ignition System, Charging System, Lighting, Audio, Power Accessories
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Hood, Trunk, Bumpers, Chassis, Interior Trim, Glass
HVAC:
Air Conditioning System, Heater Core, Blower Motor, Controls
Steering:
Power Steering System, Steering Column, Steering Rack
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, Filter replacements, Fluid checks, Spark plug replacement, Belt inspections
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, DTC code explanations, Symptom-based troubleshooting
Engine Repair:
Engine assembly/disassembly, Piston/ring installation, Valve jobs, Turbocharger overhaul, Fuel injector service
Transmission Repair:
Transmission disassembly/reassembly, Gear replacement, Clutch replacement, DCCD unit service
Electrical Diagnostics:
Component testing, Sensor calibration, Wiring harness repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement (shocks, struts, bushings, tie rods), Wheel alignment procedures
Brake System Repair:
Pad and rotor replacement, Caliper service, Bleeding procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid services to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced diagnostics and wiring schematics.
Searchable Text:
Yes (typically, dependent on original scan quality)
Resolution:
High-resolution scans, suitable for printing
Readability:
Clear text, legible diagrams, and illustrations
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Engine Type:
2.5L DOHC turbocharged flat-four (boxer)
Horsepower:
300 hp @ 6000 rpm (JDM/Euro spec), 280 hp @ 5600 rpm (USDM spec)
Torque:
350 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (JDM/Euro spec), 310 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm (USDM spec)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 79.0 mm
Fuel Injection:
Sequential multi-port fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended/required for optimal performance)
ECU Type:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with specific STI tuning
Length:
4,405 mm (173.4 in)
Width:
1,795 mm (70.7 in)
Height:
1,440 mm (56.7 in) (Sedan)
Wheelbase:
2,620 mm (103.1 in)
Front Track:
1,530 mm (60.2 in)
Rear Track:
1,530 mm (60.2 in)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 1,450 kg (3,197 lbs)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 1,830 kg (4,034 lbs)
NHTSA Front Crash Rating:
4 Stars (Driver and Passenger)
NHTSA Side Impact Rating:
5 Stars (Front and Rear Passengers)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System
Traction Control:
Yes (integrated with AWD and DCCD)
Electronic Brake Force Distribution:
Yes
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, Front side airbags
Seatbelts:
Pretensioner seatbelts with force limiters
Body Structure:
Reinforced chassis with impact-absorbing crumple zones
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (severe use recommended).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approx. 30,000 miles (Iridium type)
Timing Belt Replacement:
Not applicable (uses a timing chain)
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SJ or higher, ILSAC GF-3 or higher)
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.5 US quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S (or equivalent GL-5, SAE 75W-90 manual transmission fluid)
Front Differential Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S (or equivalent GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil)
Rear Differential Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra-S (or equivalent GL-5, SAE 75W-90 gear oil)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant
Piston Ringland Failure:
Potential for ringland failure on piston #4 under extreme detonation or sustained high-RPM abuse. Regular maintenance and proper fuel are critical.
Clutch Wear:
Clutch wear can be accelerated with aggressive driving. Replacement is a common repair.
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less common than on naturally aspirated EJ engines, head gasket leaks can still occur. Regular cooling system maintenance is advised.
Turbocharger Failure:
Oil starvation or excessive heat can lead to turbocharger failure. Ensure correct oil levels and use of synthetic oil with proper cool-down periods.
Dccd Actuator Failure:
The DCCD actuator can fail over time, leading to a default FWD or AWD mode and illumination of the DCCD warning light.
Motorsport Legacy:
Deep roots in rallying, with the Impreza WRX STI being a direct homologation model for WRC competition.
Third Gen Introduction:
The 2006 model year represents a significant update within the second generation (GDB/GGB) platform, often referred to as the 'Blobeye' to 'Hawkeye' transition or a mid-cycle refresh for some markets.
Performance Enhancements:
Increased engine power, updated DCCD system, and revised suspension tuning compared to earlier models.
Production Years:
Second Generation (GDB/GGB): 2000-2007. Specifically the 2006 model year.
Manufacturing Locations:
Gunma Plant, Japan
Rally Prowess:
Consistently recognized as a benchmark for performance and handling in its class, with a strong association with motorsport success.
Enthusiast Recognition:
Highly regarded by automotive enthusiasts for its raw performance, AWD grip, and iconic rally heritage.
Homologation Status:
Built to homologate the vehicle for World Rally Championship (WRC) competition, ensuring a high level of performance engineering.