The second generation of the Subaru Impreza is a compact automobile, manufactured between 2000 and 2007 by Subaru in Ota, Gunma, Japan. As with its first generation predecessor, Subaru split the range into four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body variants; the firm did not carry forward the previous coupe style. Mainstream versions received naturally aspirated 1.5-, 1.6-, 2.0-, or 2.5-liter flat-four engines, with the performance oriented "WRX" and "WRX STI" models uprated to turbocharged versions of the two latter options. Like most Subaru models of similar vintage, all-wheel drive tended to be offered as standard in export markets, with front-wheel drive also available in Japan.
Introduced as the "New Age" Impreza, the polarizing headlamp styling divided critics who were quick to designate the model as the "bug eye" Impreza. A subsequent facelift in 2002 toned down this frontal styling, but a second facelift in 2005—characterized by an aviation-inspired three-part mesh grille—also attracted controversy.
The Subaru Impreza WRX 2nd gen has it's own thread
First facelift: 2002–2005
After mixed reaction to the round headlight design, in 2001 Subaru enlisted the help of Peter Stevens of Prodrive, who updated the car's fascia in 2002 (2003 in the US for the 2004 model year), with more rectangular headlamps. For the US market, the facelifted Impreza was offered as 2.5 RS Sedan and TS Wagon, 2.5 Outback Sport Wagon, WRX Sedan and Wagon, and the new WRX STI Sedan. Sport Package was optional for the RS, and the WRX could be ordered with Premium Package. The RS, TS, Outback Sport, and WRX are available with manual or automatic transmission, while the sole transmission for the STI is 6-speed manual.
In 2005, Subaru made their AVCS standard on all engines used in the Impreza.
Second facelift: 2005–2007
From June 2005 in Japan (2006 model year) Imprezas have been redesigned, along with new headlights, taillights, and bumpers. Greek designer Andreas Zapatinas, formerly of Alfa Romeo, penned the updated front-end in 2004. The facelift introduced Subaru's new corporate face, including its controversial "jet intake and wings" grille design that first appeared on the Subaru R2 kei car. The new corporate face chose this style to pay homage to their aircraft manufacturing roots, the Nakajima Aircraft Company.