Overview & Reviews

In the small car segment, the Subaru Impreza is often overshadowed by more popular nameplates. There are two primary reasons for this: the Impreza's higher-than-average pricing and a lack of brand awareness regarding Subaru vehicles. But things are changing and Subaru's sales have been surging in recent years as consumers are discovering that the Subaru Impreza can be an excellent choice among compact cars.

The Impreza's most notable edge is its distinctive powertrain, as this model has always been available with all-wheel drive. This provides it with extra traction in slippery conditions and, on higher-horsepower models, works in combination with the Impreza's well-sorted chassis to provide entertaining handling. The Impreza has always been powered by its unusual horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, which emits a distinctive growl during acceleration. Competitive in most other respects except for the fuel economy of the previous generations, the Impreza is an excellent alternative choice for a new or used small sedan, wagon or hatchback.

Current Subaru Impreza
The mainstream Subaru Impreza was redesigned for 2012, and adopts less quirky styling that's obviously inspired by its larger Legacy sibling. In addition to the new look, there's also more room in the cabin and more fuel efficiency under the hood.

All Imprezas have four doors and are available in sedan and hatchback body styles. Trim levels for both include 2.0i, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited, while the hatchback can also be had in 2.0i Sport Premium and 2.0i Sport Limited trims. The high-performance WRX and WRX STI trim levels continue, but oddly enough in the previous-generation guise, which is covered below.

These non-WRX/non-STI Imprezas are all powered by a 2.0-liter, horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine with 148 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) is optional. Either way, all-wheel drive is standard. With the CVT, the 0-60 dash takes 9.6 seconds, a bit slow compared to some speedier rivals, though they don't have the Subie's all-wheel drive.

Standard feature highlights of the 2.0i include full power accessories, air-conditioning, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a four-speaker audio system. The Premium adds alloy wheels, cruise control, Bluetooth phone/audio connectivity and upgraded audio with auxiliary/iPod/USB inputs. Stepping up to the 2.0i Limited adds automatic headlights, automatic climate control, heated seats and leather upholstery. The Sport versions further add bigger (17-inch) wheels, roof rails, two-tone body color, heated mirrors and heated seats. Option highlights include a sunroof and a navigation system.

In reviews, the Impreza 2.0i struck us as a well-rounded small car, with a compliant ride, composed handling, well-weighted steering and confident brakes. Though the acceleration isn't exactly zippy, the improved fuel economy is certainly welcome, as is the advantage of all-wheel drive for snowbelt dwellers. Of course, the WRX and WRX STI are a kick to drive, with their spirited turbocharged engines and more agile handling. The STI version further thrills enthusiasts with its increased output, front/rear limited-slip differentials, powerful Brembo brakes and six-speed manual transmission.

Used Subaru Impreza Models
The previous, third-generation Subaru Impreza was mostly offered from 2008 through 2011. We say "mostly" because the WRX and WRX STI models continued on unchanged into 2012. This Impreza was offered as a sedan and hatchback in four main trim levels: 2.5i, Outback Sport, WRX and WRX STI. Depending on the year, there were also some fancier sub-trims -- the WRX Premium, WRX Limited and WRX STI Limited.

The 2.5i and Outback Sport models had a horizontally opposed 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 170 hp matched to either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. The WRX got a turbocharged 2.5 that put out either 224 hp/226 lb-ft of torque or 265 hp/244 lb-ft depending on the year, and it came with the five-speed manual. The STI boosted the turbocharged output even further to 305 hp and 290 lb-ft and boasted a six-speed manual. All engines sent their power to all four wheels via the standard all-wheel-drive system.

The Impreza Outback Sport had a slightly raised suspension for better ground clearance and a two-tone exterior paint scheme. Besides its turbocharged boxer engine, the WRX came with specialized wheels, tires and suspension. The STI featured even more performance-oriented hardware, such as stiffer suspension settings, 18-inch tires, Brembo brakes and aggressively bolstered sport seats.

Although this third-generation Impreza ran just four model years, there were some notable changes. The WRX was initially tuned for ride comfort rather than handling prowess, and as such the earlier versions disappointed enthusiasts who expected sharper cornering ability. Subaru firmed up the WRX's suspension for '09 and also boosted engine output by 41 horses to 265 hp. The former engine (224 hp) and suspension essentially lived on as the automatic-only 2.5GT offered for 2009 and '10.

A new grille design arrived for 2010 along with a Limited trim level for the WRX and Special Edition trim/packages for certain models. The following year, the WRX adopted the STI's aggressive styling cues, such as the flared fenders.

Collectors should note that there was a limited-production STI (only 125 units total) Special Edition trim for 2010, which featured the wheels and firmer suspension from Japan's STI spec C model. In exchange for a lower sticker price, the Special Edition did away with some upscale features and as such had halogen headlights, a four-speaker stereo, a single-CD player and manual climate control.

In reviews, we found the standard Impreza capable overall, and in wet weather conditions especially reassuring thanks to its all-wheel-drive system. Acceleration of the 2.5i model was adequate, though the four-speed automatic was disappointing in a segment where five or six speeds were available. Enthusiast drivers would be happier with the WRX, which is almost as quick as the pricier STI and handles very well. But as mentioned earlier, those who prefer tighter handling to a plusher ride should skip the softly tuned '08 model. The STI raises the performance bar slightly, but not really enough to justify its price. Although road noise is elevated at highway speeds, a WRX and even WRX STI still deliver a compliant ride and would make for a comfortable driving companion.

The second-generation Subaru Impreza was sold from 2002-'07. It was available as a five-passenger sedan or a wagon. Mechanically, the two body styles were similar. At its debut, this Impreza was sold in the following trim levels: 2.5 RS sedan, WRX sedan and wagon, 2.5 TS Sport Wagon and Outback Sport wagon.

Powering non-WRX models was a 2.5-liter engine making 165 hp. The WRX had a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine making 227 hp. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic. Imprezas of this period were reasonably well equipped, with the most features and performance-oriented hardware coming on the WRX.

Though all years of this Impreza are highly regarded, there are some changes to be aware of. Models made for 2004 and later benefited from a variety of feature updates, including revised front-end styling, updated suspension components for a better ride quality and more convenience features. For 2006, Subaru updated the Impreza's front styling again and introduced updated engines. The renamed 2.5i trim levels came with 173 hp, while the WRX sedan and wagon gained a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing 230 hp.

From 2004-'07, Subaru also sold the ultra-high-performance Impreza STI. This special variant of the sedan came with a 300-hp version of the 2.5-liter turbo engine, a six-speed manual transmission, an even stiffer suspension and powerful Brembo brakes. It also had exclusive features like a driver-adjustable center differential and a water sprayer for the intercooler.

At the time, we found the second-generation Subaru Impreza to be one of the best performance cars available for the money. Though lacking the most up-to-date features and suffering from an increasingly dated interior design, this generation had a fun-to-drive personality that kept it competitive with more modern performance hatchbacks and sedans. The STI, meanwhile, was capable of out-accelerating and out-handling many dedicated sport coupes of the time.

Considering the glorious halo associated with this second generation, it might be somewhat surprising to learn that the Subaru Impreza had a rather meek American debut for 1993. The first-generation model was available as a sedan or wagon and came equipped with a 1.8-liter flat-4 good for just 110 hp. All-wheel drive was optional, not standard. There were three trim levels: base, L and LS. The LS (later renamed LX) came with more equipment, including a standard four-speed automatic transmission and antilock brakes.

Subaru made its first major changes to this generation for 1995. Additions included a two-door coupe model, the Outback wagon and a larger 135-hp 2.2-liter engine option. The larger engine was available only with a four-speed automatic, however. This situation was rectified in '96 when the five-speed manual became available for the 2.2-liter. That year, Subaru also made the larger engine standard on all trims except the low-budget Brighton coupe.

The first-generation Subaru Impreza continued to improve in its later years. For 1997, Subaru brought out an improved Outback model, increased the power output of the 2.2-liter, made AWD standard and dropped the LX trim. A year later, the desirable Impreza 2.5 RS debuted. Though not as powerful as the turbocharged WRX versions that Subaru was selling in other parts of the world, the coupe-only 2.5 RS came with a 165-hp 2.5-liter engine, a sport-tuned suspension, a non-functional hood scoop and 16-inch wheels. It also tied in nicely to the Impreza's success in the World Rally Championship during this time. No more significant changes were made to the Impreza, though a 2.5 RS sedan did arrive for 2000.

User Reviews:

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  Good, but needs improvements - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By clarkma5 - April 29 - 10:00 am

  This is a fun car...but its hard to call it a real performance car. The suspension is too soft, the tires are too skimpy, and the shifter is too balky. For performance driving, the engines great, but around town its a bugaboo...with only 2.0 liters of displacement and a low 8:1 compression ratio, this engine is gutless until the turbo kicks in around 3k RPM. The interior is pretty mediocre, with lots of hard plastic, but build qualitys good and there are no major ergonomic flaws. Stereos bad, though...too heavy on bass and all the sound gets squished together. Hard to tell instruments apart! Still a good performance value for the money, though.

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  best performance around - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By ohfreddie - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Thinking about getting the sedan? Think again--the wagon is the exact same except you can actually haul things! Extremely fun when the boost kicks in, and then the turbo just doesnt stop. Handling is perfect.

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  After 17000 miles - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By Little Blue - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my WRX wagon for over 17,000 miles now...those ar TROUBLE-FREE miles!. I must admit (dont tell my wife!) that I love this car as much as the day I picked it up at Mastro Subaru in Tampa. It is the epitome of the Beach Boys song...fun, fun, fun. The automatic does have the much talked about turbo-lag, but to me, it is not a problem; this is a great, comfortable everyday driver that is practical...30 bags of mulch and a basketball set!

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  A supercar for the rest of us - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By jokerman1 - April 29 - 10:00 am

  Im 45, with a wife and 2 young kids, and probably dont fit the demographic for this car. Nonetheless, its my daily driver, and its outrageous! Ive owned 2 porsches, 3 bmws, and many other cars - but Ive got to say this one takes the cake for value+performance. At first I was planning to remove the wing, but its growing on me and Ive decided to keep it. Ive never met a highway on-ramp I didnt like, and with this car daily driving is a real treat.

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  Happy I bought the 2017 Impreza Limited hatchback - 2017 Subaru Impreza
  By Nitpicker - April 26 - 1:29 pm

  My husband says Im no fun to shop for cars with because Im so critical, so its very, very significant that Im so enthusiastic about the 2017 Subaru Impreza Limited hatchback we bought a month ago. (The price, $27,500, included some options but not the HK stereo.) We were replacing my 2001 Audi A4 turbo-charged sedan with all-wheel drive, and I wanted a vehicle that was safe, reliable, and had good visibility. (Im only 5 feet tall, so visibility was a big issue.) I also wanted a vehicle that could fit in our smallish garage but could carry lots of stuff. We narrowed down the contenders to the 2017 Honda Civic hatchback, the 2017 Mazda 3 hatchback, and the 2017 Impreza hatchback. We ruled out the Mazda right away; in order for my feet to reach the pedals, I had to sit with my elbows practically on top of the steering wheel. The Civic was nice, but visibility was better in the Impreza, and the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety had criticized the Civics headlights. (The Imprezas headlights are really good.) Granted, weve only had the car a month, but my initial impressions are really positive. Some of the features I especially like: blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure monitoring, wonderful visibility, smooth ride, being able to use regular gas, automatically adjusting lights. (If you turn the light stalk to "auto," the car automatically switches to daytime running lights or regular headlights, depending on the conditions.) Rear leg room is good (unlike in many vehicles this size). Handling is almost as precise as handling in the Audi was, and the brakes are nicely responsive. I also like not having to use a key. When we first bought the car, a keyless fob didnt seem like a big deal, but now its so convenient to unlock the car simply by walking up to it (when youre carrying the fob in a purse or pocket, etc.), and its so nice to have the car lock itself when you simply walk away from it (again, carrying the fob). My two main complaints are that the car is a little underpowered; for example, in my turbocharged Audi, I could zip around other cars. This car doesnt have the same "kick," but thats not a major annoyance. In fact, the so-so power is probably one reason the car gets good gas mileage for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. One other attribute that potential buyers might not like is that the seats are very firm. At first I thought the seats would be uncomfortable on a long drive, but they seem OK now. (I do wish Subaru had included lumbar adjustment, though.) All in all, though, I really like the car. Even though crash-test results for this car arent available yet, I felt confident about buying the car anyway because Subaru has such a great safety record, and Id read about safety enhancements that had been incorporated into the 2017 Impreza. Subaru has invested a lot in development of this vehicle, and the quality shows -- from the fit and finish, to the solid "thunk" when you close the doors. Because of all the money and work that had been put into development of the 2017 Impreza, I assume that reliability will be good. Some of the Subaru ads include the slogan "Confidence in Motion," and I do have a lot of confidence in this vehicle. Although I gave the car only four stars (instead of five) in some categories, Id give it five stars overall. If youre in the market for a new vehicle -- especially if youre a short driver -- I strongly recommend the Impreza Limited hatchback.

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  Subaru a great value - 2000 Subaru Impreza
  By Subaru nut - April 23 - 10:00 am

  First time Subaru buyer, great car, good for snow and maintance. I would buy again.

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  killer 4cyl - 2003 Subaru Impreza
  By wrxnut900 - April 23 - 10:00 am

  great car fun to drive tons of power for such a little motor i added a intake and exhaust and made it really fast i love it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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  4 door rocket - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By amicone - April 23 - 10:00 am

  This car is amazing. If you want porche performance with room for 5, this is the car for you. Just tap the gas and you are off to the races. it corners like none other and brakes like the champ it is.

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  One word - Awesome!! - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By nishaachar - April 23 - 10:00 am

  Wonderful car. Just waiting to cross the 1000mile breakin. Will update when done.

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  My Colorado Car - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By RonK - April 23 - 10:00 am

  After moving to Colorado recently, I parted with my 2002 Jeep Wrangler to seek a more cost-efficient source of transportation that would also do well in the Rockies. After driving SUVs over the past ten years, I settled on my first "car" in a decade. It was a Subaru Outback Sport Wagon, and I drove it for a year and loved it. It carried my dog , bikes, snowboards, and camping gear all year with aplomb in all manner of weather. A raise in my salary coincided with a WRX test drive, and back I went to the dealership. What I got was the same, solid Subaru Boxer- powered vehicle with 25%+ more power, and incredible handling. Fantastic car!