You too can be your own video game hero. Or just play one on the road as you sit behind the wheel of the 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STi, the consumer version of Subaru's WRC rally-winning racer. Most of the changes this year involve more fine-tuning to enhance performance. What makes this race car stand out is the fact that it's also a four-door sedan with a fairly roomy trunk, so it serves well for open-road ripping or city travel. A monster turbo 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder DOHC Boxer engine makes 293-hp in the 2006 WRX STi. This is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission. Changes this year are a more refined 41/59 torque distribution and a new mechanical limited slip differential in place of the previous hydraulic one. Outside, the WRX STi gets the new wing-like trisectional Subaru mesh grille. The huge hood scoop has been reduced somewhat, helping with visibility, and a new roof vane is modeled after the rally car. Wheels are still silver or gold. Coming in sedan only, the STi offers a lot of interior conveniences too, while still trying to keep the car lightweight. The aluminum body helps with that as well. Power locks, windows, and mirrors, leather-trimmed seats and steering wheel, cruise control, daytime running lights, and a front console are all standard, as is ABS brakes and dual front and side airbags.
All-wheel drive capability, instant acceleration performance, outlandish speeds, combined with tight cornering and smooth handling, make the 2006 WRX STi a winner with owners. They love the looks, and say it is the most fun they've had behind the wheel. Negatives include rear seats that don't fold, some road noise, a desire for more features and options, and disappointment it doesn't come in a two-door coupe model.