GT5 Transcripts/Subaru Impreza (first generation, Type-II)

The second edition of Subaru's prize compact car with rally roots experienced a lot of changes starting in September 1996. The horizontally-opposed flat-4 that powered all the Impreza variants was improved, and even a new name, "Boxer Master-4". This was good news for all, especially those interested in STi cars because its engine's output grew to 276 HP. The Impreza's transmission, body, suspension, and brakes were also improved. The standout in the lineup was still the STi Version III, whose output had grown to 276 HP and 253.1 ft-lb and whose brakes were improved to a 4-pot setup. An automated spray system was also added to keep the intercooler cool.

In January 1997, Subaru unveiled the first coupe model of the WRX series, as a commemoration to winning the WRC title the year before. Therefore, the car was bathed in Subaru's racing colors of Sonic Blue Mica and Chase Yellow. The mechanical underpinnings were identical to the 4-door STi. The U.S. received an Impreza coupe, too, but ours didn't get the turbocharged engine. Right on the heels of the coupe was the WRX STi Version IV, whose flat-4 was tuned to produced 276 HP at 6500 rpm and now 260.3 ft-lb of torque at 4000. Inside the sheet metal, Subaru relocated the tachometer to the center of the instrument cluster.