The first face lift model of the 2nd generation Impreza was affectionately referred to as the Blobeye. Large styling changes to the front end including bonnet, headlights and bumper greatly improved the looks of the car for it then to go on and be sold in larger numbers.
“Competition Improves the Breed!” There continued to be a huge push from STI in Japan to stay ahead of the competition on the Motorsport arena. Due to the rules of homologation and to be legal, these improvements had to be present on the production vehicle.
The EJ Engine and drivetrain remained largely unchanged but for JDM models a twin scroll turbo configuration was developed to encourage turbo spool and increase power and torque.