The WRX's Achilles heal has to be its wheel and tire combination. While 16" rims are better off-road, the majority of WRX drivers will be experiencing the performance limits of their cars on pavement. Standard 17" wheels with low-profile tires would suit the package much better.

With the introduction of the WRX to Canada, Subaru has shed its conservative image and entered our performance car market with a bang. Nothing in its $34,995 price range comes close to offering such dynamic performance, in such a practical package. Add to this Subaru's better than average reliability and it might just end up as 2002's performance value leader.

Specifications:

• Price Range (MSRP): $21,995 - $36,195
• Body Type: 4-door sedan, 5-door wagon
• Layout: Front engine, AWD
• Base Engine: 165 hp, 166 lb-ft, 2.5-L, 16-valve, SOHC H-4
• Opt Engine: 227 hp, 217 lb-ft, 2.0-L, 16-valve, DOHC H-4
• Transmission: 5-spd man (opt 4-spd auto with opt manual mode, opt 6-spd man)
• Brakes (front/rear): disc/drum (opt rear disc, ABS)
• Cargo Cap (wagon seats up/folded): 674 / 1,743 (23.8 / 61.5 cu ft)
• Curb Weight: 1,378 kg (3,038 lbs)
• Fuel Economy (city/hwy): 11.1 City / 7.8 Hwy
• Warranty (mo/km): 36/60,000 comprehensive - 60/100,000 powertrain
• Direct Competitors: Chevrolet Cavalier, Chrysler Neon, Daewoo Nubira, Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Spectra, Mazda Protegé, Nissan Sentra, Pontiac Sunfire, Saturn SL, Suzuki Esteem, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf/Jetta
• Web Site: www.subaru.ca