The new grille is flanked by comma-shaped light clusters, encased in tinted lenses. The taillight clusters are shaped similarly to those in front, with the red, yellow and clear lenses of individual lights gathered under a smoked cover. All models now have aluminum hoods to trim weight and improve weight balance front to rear (not something you expect on the typical small car). The fenders on all Impreza models are flared more aggressively, and the wheel wells are filled nicely with standard 16-inch rims.
The Impreza Outback Sport has a bit more space between the tire and the fender lip. That's because the Outback's ride height is raised slightly to allow more upward wheel travel. The Outback is easy to distinguish from the other wagons, thanks to its chrome grille and two-tone paint. The side molding, bumpers and lower body are finished in steely gray metallic, and the rear bumper has a truck-style vinyl pad, or step.
The Impreza WRX now features the sculpted side sills previously reserved for the mighty STi. By appearances, this is our favorite Impreza, particularly in the soft gray metallic paint that adorned our test car. The 17-inch spoke wheels add purpose. The body-colored side mirrors, new smoked light lenses and softly shimmering paint (not to mention impressive overall panel fit) meld to create a jewel-like finish that would flatter cars costing twice as much.
The WRX STi has been stripped of what many considered its calling card: the big gaping scoop in its hood. Subaru says improved aerodynamics feed the STi engine and intercooler all the air they need through a narrower scoop identical to that on the standard WRX. Perhaps, but saving the cost of tooling a separate hood for the low-volume STi probably helped.
The STi was created as the homologation car, a required street-legal copy of Subaru's winning World Rally Championship cars. Those who care will notice the STi's slightly lower ride height, or the badges or the little spoiler at the trailing edge of the roof. And if none of those things are enough to announce the presence of the fastest Subaru ever, no worries. Absolutely no one will miss the giant, two-step rear wing. The STi's rear spoiler may be the most audacious in autodom. And if the wing doesn't shout Look at me!'' loud enough, there are optional gold wheels, just like those on the WRC race cars. They may not be particularly attractive, but they're genuine."
