Subaru WRX

The Subaru Impreza WRX is a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive performance sedan that has earned a devoted global following since its introduction. Originally launched in Japan in 1992, then quickly spreading to New Zealand, Australia, and Europe, the WRX features a turbocharged version of Subaru's EJ-series flat-four boxer engine, initially displacing 2.0 liters and later growing to 2.5 liters. Compared to the base Impreza, the WRX also packs wider wheels with lower-profile tires, larger brakes, and firmer, higher-quality suspension components.

North American buyers had to wait until 2001, when the WRX arrived as a 2002 model year car. The anticipation was worth it. The original Japanese-market WRX debuted in November 1992 with 240 PS (about 237 horsepower) at 6,000 rpm and 220 pound-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm. Both front and rear brake rotors were ventilated discs, and the car weighed a relatively light 2,690 pounds. The center differential used a viscous coupling, and the rear limited-slip differential was also viscous type.

The WRX evolved through seven noted versions, with STI variants carrying consecutive version numbers. Chassis codes provide another way to identify specific models; all WRX cars sold between 1992 and 2000 carry the GC8 (sedan) or GF8 (hatchback) prefix, followed by a letter from A through G. The Type RA variant was a stripped-down version designed for motorsport and tuning, lacking creature comforts like air conditioning and a radio to save weight. The Type RA shed roughly 110 pounds from the standard car, received a close-ratio gearbox, and wore a Nardi leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The WRX's rally heritage, symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and turbocharged boxer engine make it one of the most capable performance cars in its class. These high-output turbocharged engines generate serious heat, especially under spirited driving. Griffin Thermal Products builds exact-fit aluminum radiators for Subaru WRX models, delivering the cooling performance these rally-bred machines deserve.