In an apparent mea culpa, Subaru has significantly upgraded its WRX sedan for 2009, just one model year after a full redesign, Road & Track reports. The 2009 model addresses the primary complaints enthusiasts had with the 2008 version: "The suspension was too soft, the power dropped off significantly at the top of the rev range, and the styling was too timid."

For 2009, Subaru bolted on a larger turbocharger (and dialed up the boost from 11.4 to 13.3 psi) along with a larger-diameter exhaust and an optimized catalytic converter. The changes are good for an extra 41 hp and 18 lb-ft of torque, bringing the totals to 265 and 244, respectively. Subaru also stiffened the front and rear suspension by 43 and 42 percent, and increased the front and rear rollbar diameters by one inch each.

Finally, the '09 WRX will come standard with last year's optional aero package, the report said, while the 5-door model will come equipped with the WRX STI's roof-mount rear wing. All WRXes will now wear 225/45R-17 Dunlop SP Sport 01 summer tires.