2004 Subaru Impreza WRX

The second generation Impreza arrived in the Japanese market in 2000, and was available for export markets the following year. Power in the Japanese home market was 250 PS (184 kW), but due to emissions regulations it was detuned to 218 PS (160 kW) in Europe and 227 hp (169 kW) in North America, with a maximum torque of 294 Nm (217 ft-lb). While the new model was more refined and handled better, it was not as popular with enthusiasts since its greater weight hampered performance slightly, although 0-100 km/h acceleration time takes 5.9 seconds. In addition to the sedan model, a 5-door wagon was offered, and met with brisk sales.

The exterior “bug eyed” styling was widely regarded as somewhat unattractive, so Subaru introduced a mild facelift of the frontend in the 2002 Paris Auto Show, as well as improving power in the European version to 225 PS (165 kW). To celebrate the debut of the STi in the European market, 1,000 special “Prodrive” models were produced with exclusive Prodrive interior items designed by Peter Stevens. The Impreza WRX was on Car and Driver magazine’s Ten Best list for 2002 and 2003.

Source: Wikipedia (original)