The Subaru WRX coming to the United States set off an unusual story as the model matured. Starting in 2002, the Impreza’s first version of the WRX in the US, on the GD chassis, came as a very innocent-looking vehicle with an unconventional design and huge, round headlights (some would even call them cute). Subsequent versions featured entirely different lamp designs that came to symbolize and define each particular car. And each design seemed to set a new emotional marker, progressing to the final, more sinister and rebellious versions. With this approach, Subaru was able to capitalize on its evolving appearance, even though the “innocent to serious” mythology was often more unofficial than official. In doing so, the company helped to turn this quirky and rally-inspired newcomer into one of America’s most iconic turbo sedans.
