Vehicle: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 265 5-doors
Price as tested: CDN$34895

Performance: When Subaru introduced the current WRX last year, who would have thought they will come out with a more powerful and tigther version of its very likeable performance car.

While all of them are all based on Subaru’s tried-and-true 2.5 liter flat-4 DOHC 16-valve turbocharged engine block, there are 3 different flavors between the base WRX to the flagship STi. While the base WRX has 224hp and STi scores 300hp, its the middle 265hp that is the subject to this review.

So how does the extra 41 horses and 18 lb/ft of torque measure up? It makes the already potent WRX a much more responsive and willing car from the same motor. The message on the powertrain through engine mapping and exhaust really have this matter. Even if Subaru has upped the turbo boost, it doesn’t have the annoying turbo lag one associates with small turbocharged motor especially those from Subaru. The result is the turbo spools up as soon as you step on the willing gas pedal. In terms of throttle response, let’s just say its as good as the engine. 5-speed manual gearbox is the only transmission on the 265 version. While the 224’s gearbox feels a bit notchy and rubbery, 265 has much better shifting feel. Clutch is light and progressive with a ideal bipping point. Even if both the shifting and clutch feel aren’t as engaging as the superb unit on STi, it really does improve a lot over the 224 version. However, we still wish for an additional gear on both 224 and 265 for a less buzzy highway ride.

Handling: Other than the extra ponies under the hood, 265’s biggest highlight has to be its Dunlop 225 series 17″ tires. It provides plenty of grip when pushing the 265 through corners. Subaru has managed to correct the much criticized body rolls on 224 with the 265. The 265 has much tighter body motions. That means there are fewer body rolls than those with the 224. As it enters a corner, the body is able to take a set quickly and efficiently with minimal body rolls. Both understeer and oversteer have been kept to a minimal when pushed. With stiffer springs and upper strut mounts taken out from STi, it doesn’t come as a surprise that 265 received as much attention as its more race-breed silibing. The steering is quick while providing all the right feedback and resposiveness we expect from a Subaru. On another note, combining Subaru’s famous assymetrical AWD and an electronic stability control, have added active safety to the already entertaining dynamic package. In short, a job well done.

Brakes: With large 4-wheel discs and standard ABS, 265 has as much braking prowess as one expects from a WRX. The stopping distance is short while pedal is easily modulated. ABS doesn’t step it unnecessarily is an added bonus.

Interior: Slip behind the wheel of 265, its typical WRX fanfare. The biggest highlights are the red stitching and WRX logos on the awesome sports seats. It remains a very functional interior with all the right instrumentation and switches placed at a perfect place. While it certainly lacks emotion in terms of interior design, its more than make up for its excellent ergonomics and superb driving position.

Conclusion: With the introduction of the 265, Subaru’s WRX family is about completed. The 265 worths every dough over the standard 224. It got a swifter engine, a much tighter handling package and even a more cheerful interior. If you find the 224 just a bit too blend and STi is out of your reach, 265 could well be the perfect compromise in the WRX family.

OVERALL VERDICT FOR 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 265
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Performance: 5/5
Handling and ride/fun-to-drive: 5/5
Interior/ergonomics/user-friendliness: 4/5
Fit-and-finish/build quality: 4/5
Cargo/accessibility/layout: 4/5
Value-for-money: 5/5

Overall rating: 4.5/5