Subaru Introduces Redesigned Impreza Line and Outback Sport for 2002

    CHICAGO, Feb. 8 Subaru of America, Inc. has introduced a
completely redesigned Impreza model line and Impreza-based Outback Sport for
2002 at the Chicago Auto Show.  The new models arrive in Subaru dealerships in
the spring.

    Underscoring the driving performance direction for the 2002 Impreza
models, Subaru will offer the turbocharged Impreza WRX sedan and Sport Wagon
models in the United States for the first time.  The 2002 Impreza line also
includes the sporty 2.5 RS sedan and the new 2.5 TS Sport Wagon.  All Subaru
models sold in the United States feature standard All-Wheel Drive for optimal
grip on all types of road surfaces, dry or wet.

    Subaru also announced at the Chicago Auto Show that it would make
available 450 WRX sedans (out of 10,000 WRX models for the U.S.) in a special
Blaze Yellow paint.  A rear deck spoiler will also be installed on this model.

    Significantly increased performance, refinement and equipment levels
elevate the 2002 Impreza model line into the premium sport compact category.
A Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame body structure similar to that of the larger
Legacy and Outback models enhances occupant safety.

    Oval headlights and the Subaru trademark trapezoidal grill highlight the
new Impreza design.  The sedan models feature a bold wide-track "blister
fender" design, while wagons get their own flared-fender appearance and
wraparound rear quarter glass.

    The Outback Sport blends the versatility of a small sport-utility vehicle
with passenger car response and comfort.  Graystone metallic bumpers, body
side molding and lower side sills reinforce the rugged appearance.  New
16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels replace the previous 15 x 6-inch steel wheels and
mount 205/55 R16 M+S tires for all-season, all-road performance.

    A 227-horsepower turbocharged/intercooled 2.0-liter horizontally opposed
four-cylinder engine powers the Impreza WRX models.  The 2.5 RS sedan, 2.5 TS
Sport Wagon and Outback Sport are powered by the 165-horsepower 2.5-liter
horizontally opposed engine from the larger Legacy and Forester models.  A
five-speed manual transmission is standard for all, and a four-speed
electronic automatic transmission (4EAT) is optional.
    Standard equipment for the 2002 Impreza and Outback Sport models includes:

    -- Anti-lock brake system (ABS)
    -- Air conditioning
    -- 80-Watt AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player (in-dash six-disc CD
        changer plus cassette player for WRX)
    -- 60/40 split fold-down rear seatback (wagons)
    -- Fold-down rear center armrest with trunk pass-through (sedans)
    -- Power door locks
    -- Power windows with driver's auto-down
    -- Height-adjustable driver's seat
    -- Tilt-adjustable steering column
    -- Cruise control (except 2.5 TS)
    -- Embroidered floor mats (optional on 2.5 TS)

    The Impreza WRX and 2.5 RS models each feature sport-design front seats
and their own exclusive upholstery.  The Outback Sport adds its own upholstery
and cargo-area enhancements.  Performance equipment for the WRX and 2.5 RS
includes sport-tuned suspension, 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels, 205/55 R16 tires
and four-wheel disc brakes with twin-piston front calipers (larger front
rotors on WRX).  The WRX adds a standard viscous limited-slip rear
differential and an aluminum hood with functional air scoop.

    Standard safety features for all models include three-point seatbelts for
all five seating positions, electrically triggered pre-tensioners and force
limiters for the front seats, dual front airbags and an anti-lock brake system
(ABS).  The WRX models add standard front seat side-impact air bags.