Subaru Canada will add an Impreza 2.5 RS sedan to its model lineup for 2000, joining the RS version of the coupe that was launched a couple of years ago.
Joe Anwyll, Subaru Canada's vice president of sales and marketing, says, "We understand that some drivers who enjoy the sporty attitude and styling of the Impreza 2.5 RS may also have kids and dogs and responsibilities. The sedan is basically created for those people who want the fun of driving this rally-bred car, but whose lifestyle demands easier access to the back seat."
Back seat access to the RS will not cost performance fans any more, apparently, since Subaru Canada has given the coupe and the sedan models the same base price -- $26,695 for the version with the 5-speed manual.
The RS sedan with the 4-speed automatic will retail for $27,995, which is $300 more than the RS coupe lists for.
Like the coupe and with either transmission, the Impreza RS sedan will be powered by the 2.5-litre, 16-valve, single-overhead cam engine with horizontally-opposed pistons. This "boxer" configuration provides 165 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 166 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm.
Anwyll points out that this engine also delivers "excellent low- and mid-range torque for better acceleration, enhanced engine response and increased maneuverability in city and highway traffic."