Intro
The Subaru Impreza WRX stands as an automotive icon born from rally racing heritage. Introduced in the early 1990s, this all-wheel-drive performance sedan quickly established itself as a formidable competitor on both rally stages and public roads. By 2006, the second-generation “hawkeye” WRX had evolved into a refined yet aggressive machine that perfectly balanced everyday usability with genuine performance credentials.
In Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) culture, the WRX represents the democratization of performance—a turbocharged, all-weather sports car accessible to enthusiasts without supercar budgets. Its distinctive boxer engine rumble, practical four-door configuration, and rally-bred handling created a devoted following spanning continents. The WRX transcended its Japanese origins to become a global symbol of attainable performance and tuning potential.
This particular 2006 WRX build exemplifies the model’s enduring appeal in the modification community. While factory WRXs offered impressive performance, this example showcases how enthusiasts could transform these vehicles into personalized expressions that surpass original specifications while maintaining the character that made these cars special. From enhanced power delivery to suspension refinements, this build represents the culmination of thoughtful modifications that honor the WRX’s motorsport DNA while creating something uniquely tailored to its owner’s vision.
Builder Profile
A telecommunications engineer by day and drift enthusiast by night, Takashi Kobayashi moved from Gunma, Japan to California in 2009, bringing with him a deep appreciation for rally-inspired builds. His nickname “Drift” comes not from his driving style—he actually prefers grip and rally setups—but from his tendency to drift between different automotive subcultures, taking the best elements from each.
Takashi approaches tuning with scientific precision, focusing on balanced performance rather than chasing dyno numbers. “A fast car that can’t corner is just a dragster,” he often says. His WRX build reflects this philosophy with thoughtful modifications that enhance the car’s AWD capabilities while maintaining daily drivability.
Active in both traditional car meets and time attack events throughout the West Coast, Kobayashi has become known for offering technical guidance to newcomers in the Subaru community. His meticulous documentation of his build process on various forums has made him a respected voice in the WRX/STI scene.
Why We Love It
The 2006 WRX emerges from Subaru’s rally-bred lineage as the perfect synthesis of Group A DNA in streetable form. Its EJ255 powerplant—delivering a harmonious 230 horsepower through Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system—represents Japanese engineering at its most democratically heroic.
This second-generation Impreza perfected the turbocharged flat-four formula with twin-scroll precision and 3,000 rpm torque delivery that earlier iterations merely hinted at. The hydraulic steering communicates with an analog clarity lost to modern electric systems, transmitting every nuance of surface texture directly to the palms.
What distinguishes the ’06 is its positioning at the apex of mechanical purity before electronic intervention became ubiquitous. The visceral connection between driver input and vehicle response remains unfiltered—the 5-speed manual gearbox requiring deliberate engagement, the chassis responding with immediate yaw rotation under throttle lift.
Its understated aggression—functional hood scoop feeding the top-mount intercooler, subtle fender flares housing the 17-inch wheels—speaks to a time when performance priority superseded styling concerns. This was Fuji Heavy Industries creating machines that privileged function, allowing rally success to dictate aesthetics rather than the inverse.
In an era of increasing homogeneity, the WRX’s horizontally-opposed rumble and characteristic turbo whistle offer a mechanical signature that resists forgetting.
Mods
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
- Cobb AccessPORT ECU reflash
- Invidia Downpipe & N1 Exhaust System
- TurboXS FMIC Front Mount Intercooler
- HKS SSQV Blow-Off Valve
- Walbro 255lph Fuel Pump
- Perrin Cold Air Intake
- Exedy Stage 1 Organic Clutch Kit
- Kartboy Short Shifter & Bushings
- Mishimoto Aluminum Radiator
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
- Tein Super Street Coilovers
- Cusco Front & Rear Sway Bars
- Whiteline Anti-Roll Bar End Links
- Cusco Strut Tower Brace
- Stoptech Sport Slotted Rotors
- Hawk HPS Brake Pads
- Goodridge Stainless Brake Lines
- Kartboy Pitch Stop Mount
WHEELS & TIRES
- Volk Racing TE37 18×9.5″ +22 Bronze
- Work Emotion T7R 18×9.5″ +38 Gloss Black
- Advan RGIII 18×9″ +35 Racing Gold
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08 245/40/18
- Toyo Proxes R1R 245/40/18
- Project Kics R40 Neo Chrome Lug Nuts
EXTERIOR / AERO
- STI Front Lip Spoiler
- Chargespeed Bottom Line Side Skirts
- APR GTC-300 Carbon Fiber Wing
- Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood
- JDM Mesh Grill
- HID Headlight Conversion Kit
- Rally Armor Mud Flaps
- JDM Rain Guards
- Hella Horns with Bracket
INTERIOR
- Bride Zeta III Low Max Seats
- MOMO Steering Wheel with Works Bell Hub
- Takata 4-Point Harnesses
- STI Shift Knob
- Defi Boost, Oil Pressure & EGT Gauges
- JDM Aluminum Pedal Set
- Carbon Fiber Interior Trim
- Alpine Head Unit w/ Focal Component Speakers
- NRG Quick Release Hub
ELECTRONICS / ECU
- AEM Wideband UEGO AFR Gauge
- Innovate Motorsports LC-1 O2 Sensor Kit
- Turbo Timer
- AEM Engine Management System
- GReddy Profec B Spec II Boost Controller
- Prosport Premium EVO Series Gauges
- Blitz DSBC Dual Solenoid Boost Controller
- Viper Security System with Remote Start
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The modifications on this 2006 WRX create a harmonious package focused on balanced street performance with occasional track capability. Rather than chasing outright power, the build philosophy emphasizes the Subaru’s all-weather versatility while enhancing its inherent character.
The mild power upgrades via the Stage 2 tune and supporting modifications provide usable torque throughout the rev range without sacrificing daily drivability. This approach complements the suspension modifications, which maintain compliance for real-world roads while reducing body roll and improving corner entry precision.
The chassis bracing and stiffer bushings create a more connected driving experience without the harshness of a dedicated track setup. Meanwhile, the upgraded braking system offers improved modulation and fade resistance for spirited driving without the maintenance headaches of a full race setup.
This WRX exemplifies a thoughtful street-oriented build that respects the platform’s rally heritage while adding modern refinements. It’s not built to dominate any single discipline but instead creates a versatile, engaging driving experience across varying conditions – remaining true to the WRX’s “World Rally eXperimental” ethos with a focus on accessible, all-season performance.
FAQ
How reliable is the 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX?
The 2006 WRX offers above-average reliability when properly maintained. Regular oil changes every 3,000-5,000 miles are essential due to the turbocharged engine. The EJ255 engine can reach 200,000+ miles with meticulous maintenance, though head gasket issues may emerge after 100,000 miles. Timing belt replacement at 105,000 miles is critical to prevent catastrophic engine failure.
What are the common issues with the 2006 WRX?
Common problems include piston ring failure causing excessive oil consumption, head gasket failures (particularly on higher mileage examples), turbocharger issues (banjo bolt filter clogging), and fragile five-speed manual transmissions when subjected to increased power. The center differential can also develop issues in models with aggressive driving histories.
What is the tuning potential of the 2006 WRX?
The EJ255 engine responds exceptionally well to modifications. With basic bolt-ons (intake, downpipe, exhaust) and professional tuning, output can safely increase to 280-300whp. More extensive modifications including larger turbochargers, fuel system upgrades, and forged internals can push the platform to 400-500whp, though reliability becomes a significant concern beyond 350whp without supporting modifications.
What are the best first modifications for a 2006 WRX?
The most effective initial modifications include a catback exhaust, cold air intake, and a professional tune. Following these, a turboback exhaust with downpipe, upgraded intercooler, and electronic boost controller offer the best performance-to-cost ratio. Handling improvements from quality coilovers and sway bars dramatically improve the driving experience without sacrificing reliability.
Does the 2006 WRX hold its value well?
Yes, the 2006 WRX maintains strong residual value, particularly unmodified examples with complete maintenance records. The “blobeye” generation (2004-2005) and “hawkeye” generation (2006-2007) have developed cult followings, often appreciating for well-preserved, low-mileage specimens. Clean, stock examples command premium prices in the used market compared to other vehicles from the same era.
What should I check when buying a used 2006 WRX?
Examine compression and leakdown test results, maintenance records (particularly timing belt service), signs of excessive oil consumption, clutch engagement, shifter feel, and signs of previous accidents. Listen for rod knock, turbo wastegate rattle, and differential whine during the test drive. Always have a Subaru specialist perform a pre-purchase inspection, as repair costs can be substantial.
How does the 2006 WRX perform in winter conditions?
The symmetrical AWD system delivers exceptional winter performance with appropriate tires. The vehicle maintains excellent traction in snow and ice conditions, making it highly capable as a year-round daily driver. The turbocharged engine provides quick warm-up times in cold weather, though fuel economy decreases noticeably in winter conditions.
Conclusion
The 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX stands as a representation of performance engineering that transcends time. Despite newer models with advanced technology, this particular generation maintains its relevance through a perfect blend of analog driving experience, tunability, and daily usability that many modern vehicles sacrifice for refinement.
Its turbocharged boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel-drive system remain benchmarks in affordable performance, offering enthusiasts an experience that’s increasingly rare in today’s digitized automotive landscape. The raw, mechanical connection between driver and machine continues to draw those seeking authentic performance.
Within JDM culture, the 2006 WRX occupies hallowed ground—representing the golden era when Japanese performance cars prioritized driver engagement above all. Its rally heritage, distinctive exhaust note, and iconic silhouette make it instantly recognizable at meets and on streets worldwide. The robust aftermarket support guarantees these vehicles continue evolving in the hands of dedicated owners, keeping the platform vibrant and relevant within enthusiast circles.
As automotive trends cycle toward electrification and automation, the enduring appeal of the 2006 WRX reminds us why we fell in love with driving in the first place—something that will never go out of style.