The Subaru WRX Sedan 2.5, producing 265 horsepower, represents a significant iteration of the WRX lineage, manufactured between 2007 and 2011. This generation, internally designated as the GE/GH chassis, marked a shift towards a more refined and mature WRX, aiming to broaden its appeal beyond the hardcore rally enthusiast while retaining its performance credentials. Positioned as the primary performance variant of the WRX sedan during its production run, it sat above the naturally aspirated 2.5i models and below the even more potent STI. The 2007-2011 WRX sedan was a key model for Subaru in the North American market, where the demand for all-wheel-drive performance vehicles was steadily increasing.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | WRX |
| Generation | WRX Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 (265 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 14.4 l/100 km (16.3 US mpg, 19.6 UK mpg, 6.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 10.4 l/100 km (22.6 US mpg, 27.2 UK mpg, 9.6 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h (129.87 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.5 kg/Hp, 181.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 234.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 265 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 343 Nm @ 4000 rpm (252.98 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ255 |
| Engine displacement | 2457 cm3 (149.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 8.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 368 l (13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4580 mm (180.31 in.) |
| Width | 1795 mm (70.67 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2625 mm (103.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1540 mm (60.63 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Double wishbone |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 235/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 x 8JJ |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 2007-2011 WRX Sedan 2.5 is the EJ255 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer-four engine. This engine, a staple of Subaru performance models, utilizes a horizontally opposed configuration, which contributes to a lower center of gravity and improved balance. The EJ255 featured a single scroll turbocharger with intercooling, delivering 265 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine’s valvetrain employs dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with four valves per cylinder. The standard transmission for this variant was a robust 5-speed manual gearbox. The engine’s longitudinal layout, coupled with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, provides excellent traction and handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine in the WRX Sedan 2.5 delivers a noticeable surge of power, particularly in the mid-range. While not as brutally fast as the STI, the WRX offers a more accessible and usable powerband for everyday driving. The 5-speed manual transmission provides precise shifts, and the all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence in various road conditions. Compared to the earlier 2.0-liter WRX models, the 2.5-liter engine offers improved low-end torque, making it easier to accelerate from a standstill. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel slightly strained at higher RPMs. The gear ratios are well-suited for spirited driving, providing quick acceleration in each gear.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The WRX Sedan 2.5 typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and alloy wheels. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with optional leather available. Common optional extras included a sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was functional and driver-focused, with clear instrumentation and well-placed controls. The WRX also featured sport seats providing good lateral support during cornering.
Chassis & Braking
The WRX Sedan 2.5 utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes at all four corners, providing ample stopping power. The car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The chassis is reinforced compared to the standard Impreza sedan, enhancing rigidity and handling precision.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2007-2011 Subaru WRX Sedan 2.5 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its performance, handling, and all-weather capability. However, some reviewers noted that the interior quality was not as refined as some of its competitors. Compared to the STI, the WRX offered a more affordable entry point into the world of Subaru performance, while still delivering a thrilling driving experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for a performance car, averaging around 22.6 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although turbocharger issues and oil consumption were occasionally reported.
Legacy
The 2007-2011 Subaru WRX Sedan 2.5 remains a popular choice among enthusiasts in the used car market. Its combination of performance, practicality, and all-wheel-drive capability makes it a versatile and rewarding vehicle to own. The EJ255 engine, while known for potential oil consumption issues if not properly maintained, is generally considered a durable and reliable powerplant. Parts availability is good, and the WRX benefits from a large and active aftermarket support community. Today, these WRXs are often sought after for modification and track use, cementing their place as a modern classic in the performance sedan segment.
