2002 Subaru Impreza WRX — factory standard description
Powertrain and drivetrain
- 2.0L turbocharged horizontally-opposed (H4) DOHC 16-valve engine with factory turbocharger and top-mounted intercooler, engineered for a compact layout and a low center of gravity.
- Factory gearbox was a close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission (manual transmission is the original standard drivetrain pairing on this model) with a conventional clutch.
- Full-time all-wheel drive system, designed to distribute power to all four wheels for enhanced traction in a variety of road conditions.
Chassis, suspension and brakes
- Sport-tuned suspension calibrated for firmer handling than the non-WRX Impreza models; this includes stiffer springs and dampers and reinforced components intended to improve cornering response.
- Independent suspension layout front and rear (factory geometry and components intended to balance ride and handling for a performance compact).
- Front ventilated disc brakes and rear disc brakes; anti-lock braking system (ABS) was included to help maintain steering control under heavy braking.
- Stabilizer bars and other chassis bracing appropriate for the performance model.
Exterior features
- Distinctive WRX hood scoop to route air to the top-mounted intercooler.
- Functional front fog lights integrated into the front bumper (standard on WRX).
- Signature sporty styling cues relative to base Impreza models: unique bumpers, wheel arches, and a rear spoiler (size and style vary by body style—sedan or wagon).
- Factory alloy wheels fitted with performance-oriented tires.
Interior and convenience
- Sport-bolstered cloth seats designed to provide support during spirited driving; driver’s seat typically includes manual adjustments.
- Simple, driver-focused instrument cluster with speedometer, tachometer, and auxiliary gauges; tachometer emphasized for performance driving.
- Standard power accessories commonly include power windows and power door locks.
- Factory climate control (manual HVAC) with heating and air conditioning.
- AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player as the standard audio system; provisions for an optional factory or dealer-installed CD changer were common.
- Tilt steering column and a center console with storage; passenger and rear seating configured for practicality and everyday use.
Safety and security
- Dual front airbags for driver and front passenger.
- 3-point seat belts for front and rear seating positions.
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS) as noted; additional passive and active safety features are consistent with the model year standards.
- Factory immobilizer/standard keyed ignition security; remote keyless entry was often available as standard or dealer-installed depending on trim.
Utility and cargo
- Trunk/cargo area sized to the sedan/wagon body style with folding rear seats in most configurations to expand usable cargo space.
- Practical interior layout with durable materials intended for daily use and spirited driving.
Notes
- Factory equipment varied by market and trim level; some convenience and comfort items (for example, cruise control, upgraded audio, leather seating, or larger wheel options) were optional or part of dealer packages. The description above summarizes the typical standard features original to the 2002 WRX as delivered from the factory.
This profile focuses on the original factory configuration and standard features commonly associated with the 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX.