The WRX STi ($32,995) sits atop the Impreza line. This is the one most coveted by hard-core driving enthusiasts, and it's distinguished by a huge two-step rear wing and even more aggressive bodywork. More important, it's powered by a crazy-fast 300-hp version of the boxer four, with even firmer suspension and track-style Brembo brakes.

Options include a CD changer ($355) and an engine block heater ($30).

Safety features on all models include dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags, and seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters for the front seats. ABS comes standard and features four sensors and four channels (meaning all four wheels can brake independently). It comes with electronic brake-force distribution (meaning wheels with the best traction get the most brake force in a panic stop).

The purchase price includes 24-hour roadside assistance for the duration of the three-year, 36,000-mile warranty.

Walkaround

The 2006 Impreza models have been restyled to reflect what Subaru calls its new brand identity. The centerpiece is a prominent three-section black mesh grille, which is supposed to reflect Subaru's aircraft heritage (more accurately, the aircraft heritage of parent Fuji Heavy Industries). Some reviewers have described the new Subaru look in unflattering terms. We're indifferent, at least to the Impreza's grille. It certainly would not deter us from owning one of these cars.

The new grille is flanked by comma-shaped light clusters, encased in tinted lenses. The taillight clusters are shaped similarly to those in front, with the red, yellow and clear lenses of individual lights gathered under a smoked cover. All models now have aluminum hoods to trim weight and improve weight balance front to rear (not something you expect on the typical small car). The fenders on all Impreza models are flared more aggressively, and the wheel wells are filled nicely with standard 16-inch rims.

The Impreza Outback Sport has a bit more space between the tire and the fender lip. That's because the Outback's ride height is raised slightly to allow more upward wheel travel. The Outback is easy to distinguish from the other wagons, thanks to its chrome grille and two-tone paint. The side molding, bumpers and lower body are finished in steely gray metallic, and the rear bumper has a truck-style vinyl pad, or step.

The Impreza WRX now features the sculpted side sills previously reserved for the mighty STi. By appearances, this is our favorite Impreza, particularly in the soft gray metallic paint that adorned our test car. The 17-inch spoke wheels add purpose. The body-colored side mirrors, new smoked light lenses and softly shimmering paint (not to mention impressive overall panel fit) meld to create a jewel-like finish that would flatter cars costing twice as much.

The WRX STi has been stripped of what many considered its calling card: the big gaping scoop in its hood. Subaru says improved aerodynamics feed the STi engine and intercooler all the air they need through a narrower scoop identical to that on the standard WRX. Perhaps, but saving the cost of tooling a separate hood for the low-volume STi probably helped.

The STi was created as the homologation car, a required street-legal copy of Subaru's winning World Rally Championship cars. Those who care will notice the STi's slightly lower ride height, or the badges or the little spoiler at the trailing edge of the roof. And if none of those things are enough to announce the presence of the fastest Subaru ever, no worries. Absolutely no one will miss the giant, two-step rear wing. The STi's rear spoiler may be the most audacious in autodom. And if the wing doesn't shout "Look at me!'' loud enough, there are optional gold wheels, just like those on the WRC race cars. They may not be particularly attractive, but they're genuine.

Interior Features

The 2006 Subaru Impreza sports new fabrics and subtle new features inside, yet the effect of these and some hidden noise-suppression improvements add up to a sum greater than the parts.

The interior is one of the most obvious signs that the Impreza has grown up. The cabin is well designed, judged both by appearance and function, and it's also very well finished. The overall effect is that of a car selling in the $30,000 range, rather than an economy car priced in the low teens. The dash in the base Impreza 2.5i is trimmed with a dark gray metallic material. It's plastic, to be sure, but it looks good and doesn't come off as cheap. The new features enhance this upscale ambience: A sophisticated anti-theft system is now standard, as are cabin air filtration and an outside temperature gauge.

There's no change in the basic layout for 2006, and that's okay. The instruments and controls were revised for '05, and they work great. Everything is easy to find and operate, but the package doesn't seem Spartan or simplistic.