Subaru Impreza 2.0 GT

The first generation Subaru Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo, launched in 1992, marked a decisive turning point in Subaru's history. The Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo was developed with the aim of delivering outstanding performance in everyday driving as well as on the rally track. The Impreza thus became the cornerstone for Subaru's later successes in rallying and brought the company into the focus of many car enthusiasts worldwide.

The Impreza was developed as a compact and affordable vehicle that would give Subaru a broader market presence. Prior to the launch of the Impreza, Subaru had enjoyed success with the Leone and Legacy, but the brand was aiming for a younger target audience and wanted to emphasize the dynamics of motorsport more. As such, the Impreza was designed not only as an everyday car, but also as a rally sports car, which was underlined by its subsequent success in FIA World Championship rallying.

The Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo debuted with a 2.0-liter boxer engine that was turbocharged to deliver 211 hp. This was an impressive figure for a compact car, and Subaru's all-wheel drive technology provided excellent traction, especially on difficult and unpaved roads.

The development of the Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo was the result of close collaboration between various engineers and designers at Subaru. They relied on Subaru's proven boxer engine to make the vehicle not only powerful, but also balanced and stable - with success.

Hidefumi Kato, Subaru's lead designer, was primarily responsible for the design. Kato brought the sporty elements into the exterior appearance of the Impreza, which was both aerodynamically optimized and dynamic. With a low, wide body and striking lines, the Impreza immediately had a sporty look that set it apart from other compact cars of the time. The striking front design defined the look of the model and it is still iconic today.

The introduction of the Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo was not only important for the general market, but also for the rally world. Subaru was already successful in rallying, but had attracted less attention with the Legacy and other models. The Impreza WRX set new standards and in 1995 Colin McRae, a British rally driver, won the World Rally Championship in both drivers' and constructors' championships with the Impreza WRX. This event was a turning point for Subaru, as the Impreza WRX was now considered a rally icon and Subaru became the focus of the international automotive world. Incidentally, the Impreza was also unbeatable in 1996 and 1997.

The Impreza 2.0 GT Turbo was available in various versions, including a sedan and station wagon. The first models were launched in Japan in 1992 and in Europe and North America in 1993. Customers responded positively to the Impreza's sporty design, advanced technology and exceptional performance. The all-wheel drive in particular was a selling point that gave the Impreza a clear advantage over other compact cars, which often only offered front-wheel drive.

In Switzerland, the Turbo was available from 1994 and in Germany, Subaru's top model could be ordered two years later. Subaru knew how to emphasize the performance and reliability of its vehicles, which made the Impreza a popular choice among car enthusiasts and rally fans. Especially in the cold regions of the world, such as Scandinavia, the Impreza was in high demand due to its all-wheel drive and weather resistance.