2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
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...
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.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers are thrilled with the 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, praising its incredible speed, handling, and all-wheel drive capabilities. Many owners love the car's performance and sporty look. On the downside, some have mentioned concerns about fuel economy and ride comfort, noting that the car can be harsh on bumps and has high fuel consumption."
ok where do i start, the acceleration is amazing just a little sluggish from about 2500rpms down but from there up it just pulls hard. braking couldn't be better for the price from a stock car. handing is its main weakness against evos stock for stock but its because its made with softer suspension for better a daily driver but still handles very well. build quality is very good subarus are known to last forever and the transmissin in this thing is a beast. it looks amazing on both outside and inside. the blue interior is crazy and the gold wheels are so unique. gas is alright its not the best but what do expect its 300hp out of 4-cyl so it still gets decent mpg for the power. and as far as fun, well it's just amazing you have to try it to see for yourself.
September 8, 2008What is not to like it fast as hell, and beautiful to look at. zero to 60 in 4.8 seconds. I think it is worth every penny that I have payed so far. Corners like nothing else on the road and will kick your ass at the end of the day.
September 3, 2008Performance - disgustingly fast, brakes like someone punched you in the chest, handles like a go kart Quality - some noises, but you should expect that form a performance car Appearance - great interior and exterior Cost of ownership - not much maintenance, but parts can be costly. I get bad gas milage only because of my driving style Fun factor - 11/10
October 25, 2009What owners say
ok where do i start, the acceleration is amazing just a little sluggish from about 2500rpms down but from there up it just pulls hard. braking couldn't be better for the price from a stock car. handing is its main weakness against evos stock for stock but its because its made with softer suspension for better a daily driver but still handles very well. build quality is very good subarus are known to last forever and the transmissin in this thing is a beast. it looks amazing on both outside and inside. the blue interior is crazy and the gold wheels are so unique. gas is alright its not the best but what do expect its 300hp out of 4-cyl so it still gets decent mpg for the power. and as far as fun, well it's just amazing you have to try it to see for yourself.
September 8, 2008What is not to like it fast as hell, and beautiful to look at. zero to 60 in 4.8 seconds. I think it is worth every penny that I have payed so far. Corners like nothing else on the road and will kick your ass at the end of the day.
September 3, 2008Performance - disgustingly fast, brakes like someone punched you in the chest, handles like a go kart Quality - some noises, but you should expect that form a performance car Appearance - great interior and exterior Cost of ownership - not much maintenance, but parts can be costly. I get bad gas milage only because of my driving style Fun factor - 11/10
October 25, 2009The Bad: A little ugly (in my opinion), bad gas mileage (read horrible), no real luxuries ie sunroof or sat nav, big rear wing sometimes obscures mirror vision and attracts teenage boy racers, ride is very harsh. The Good: It's freaking fast. In any direction. With Cobb upgraded ECU and full exhaust system it makes approx 350 hp / 380 tq with the worlds best AWD system. The sheer violence with which it can rip through a corner will leave you speechless. Wet, dry, snow, gravel.. it doesn't matter, its simply doesn't care. It was built with one purpose, and that is to go insanely fast in any environment, on any road or track you want to put under it. It does this, and still has comfy seats, 4 doors, a nice trunk, and a nice Recaro baby seat for my kiddo to ride along.
August 20, 2008The name Subaru says it all... The car is well deserving of the title sti (subaru technica internacinal)...... Taking the corners like a king, and hugging the road at 240, this car reigns supreme... doing 13.5 on the quarter, and also ranked above all in appearance, i will recommend this car to anyone who can handle it!
December 31, 2007Knife-like precision handling. Unstoppable AWD and instant performance on demand. All with room for wife and kids!
December 24, 2007Beautiful car, lovely to drive! Very fast. LOVE IT
November 30, 2007What can I say, I love driving it! If you're looking for a practical yet spirited ride, look no further. Easy to work on and maintain. Also made a lot of friends just because of the groups out there for subies. Definite win, win!
October 3, 2014Performance - acceleration SUPERB, braking GREAT, handling GREAT Build Quality - has it needed repairs? squeaks/rattles ITS ROCK SOLID Appearance - both interior and exterior styling: This was the last ever good looking Impeza, I hope the current Impreza dies and they hire a more competent one for the next model. Cost of Ownership - gas mileage, maintenance, again treat the car well and it will treat you the same. Fun Factor - is this car fun to drive? THE SPEEEEEED!
December 16, 2011Performance- Amazing. Great Power, great handling, beautiful exhaust note, very comfortable. Build Quality- Zero repairs but remember it can be hard to keep and opposed engine from burning a bit of oil later in its life due to the pistons sitting in the oil. Its common and very little. Appearance- I personally love the spoiler and hood scoop. Loved the blue interior seats and carpet. The gauges looked really good at night. Cost of Ownership- Pricey due to insurance and premium gas. Poor fuel mileage. And since its fun you tend to go through tires and brakes. You just cant help it. Fun Factor- Through the roof. Greatest AWD in my opinion for your buck. But be prepared for everyone (including the nice lady in the mini van) trying to race you at every stoplight when they see the spoiler. I call it spoileritus.
March 21, 2011Trims & specs
Base MSRP $33,620 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.5L 300 hp H4 | Cargo Capacity 11.0 cu ft |
Combined MPG 19 | Drivetrain AWD |
