Another road test of the 2006 Subaru WRX by Auto123

Of course, handling is only part of the package. The new 2.5 litre boxer engine is fitted with an intercooled turbocharger and nets 230 horsepower and 235 lb. ft. of torque. It’s an enjoyable engine: sort of Porschey-sounding with that roughness at lower revs characteristic of a horizontally opposed mill. Variable timing makes for a wider powerband, and in low load, low rev situations it propels the WRX along adequately, achieving around 9L / 100km. Squeeze the throttle and soon the boxer mill growls with the turbines high pitched whine overlapping and outpacing the exhaust note. It’s an amusing noise, and the vigorous acceleration is equally as likely to make you smile.