4 Star Reviews for 2005 Subaru Impreza

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.64/5 Average
198 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The 2.5 RS now has drive-by-wire electronic throttle control and a new four-speed automatic transmission. The dashboard center stack/console has been redesigned with improved cupholders and fancier metallic trim. The 2.5 RS wagon, which boasts the RS sedan's upgraded suspension tuning, alloy wheels and sport seats, has replaced last year's 2.5 TS wagon. The WRX picks up automatic climate control, redesigned alloy wheels and body-color ground effects. Smoke-tinted headlight lenses and revised exterior colors round out the changes.

Pros:
  • A stout 227 horsepower in the WRX, all-wheel-drive grip, a variety of sedans and wagons to choose from, fun to drive.
Cons:
  • Tight rear quarters, limited availability of side airbags.

User Reviews:

Showing 1 through 10 of 198.00
  • A true drivers car - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    This is a car for anybody who loves driving and wants some performance to go along with utility. At this price, I do not know of any other car that provides this kind of performance and handling with 4 doors and all-wheel drive. This car puts you in a special community too: other WRX drivers on the road ALWAYS smile and wave at me! How many other Japanese sedans have that kind of following?

  • WOW - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Im recently out of a 2002 Civic Ex and into an Impreza RS 2.5 auto. I was shocked to see how much my Subaru rode and handled like a VW. The Subaru is rock solid, has excellent handling and sticks to the road like glue. Made my old Civic EX feel like I was driving a wheelbarrow. Fit and finish are on par with the rest of Japan. This vehicle comes highly recommended

  • M3? why? - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Three months ago, on my way to BMW dealer to trade in my mint 93 Supra Twin Turbo for an M3, I had a kid in some big winged creature badged STi. Yes, it was faster than my stock Supra, and I had the embarrassing pleasure to see the rear badge. I took an early exit ramp to the Subaru dealer, drove the STi, wiped the drool off of my face at the signing table, and bought it. 3 months later, I still drool after I drive it to and back from work. Lets see (comparing M3); 4 doors to 2. All wheel drive to rear wheel drive. (I live where it snows), handles almost as good and wait, $30,000 less? Bottom line: I bought a faster, more fun, more practical car and i didnt have to trade in the Supra.

  • STi - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Visceral. Its the best way to describe this car. If you are looking for a practical and reliable car with super car performance on a budget this is it. Handling is top notch (more than youllever need on the street). Acceleration comes in boatloads from 2000rpm toredline. Braking is excellent thanks to the big brembos. All of that performance combined with excellent Subaru reliability, and a nicely done interior thanks to Saab and this car is the complete package.

  • Turbo lag is bad! - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    This is my third Subaru and second WRX. I bought it last October and loved it all through the winter. But driving it in the summer with the air on is like pulling teeth. I feel like Im working it far too hard to get it to move. It drives me NUTS! We recently purchased a 04 Acura TL and its torque is addicting! I never have to worry about what gear Im in like I do with my WRX. Also, I wanted heated seats, mirrors and a sunroof but couldnt get them. I also wanted to get rid of the roof rack. Who knew Saab would be selling the Subaru I really wanted?! This car will be leaving our fleet very soon to be replaced by an Infiniti G35 Coupe.

  • Bang for your buck - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    2000 miles under my belt in my new WRX wagon and no major complaints. It doesnt excel in any one area, but does a lot of different things really well. Its not perfect, but nothing else in this price range performs like this. Its a true drivers car, so its not always that comfortable, but so what? The all-wheel drive and turbo provide lots of fun on the way to work and the grocery store.

  • Cheap & Fun AWD Car! - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I bought this car in September of last year to use as a winter car instead of my Mustang GT. I bought it with 93,000km on it and I now have 104,000km. Obviously, the car is GREAT in the snow. With 4 snow tires, you can pretty much plow your street with your front bumper and still not get stuck. The car is comfortable, but I find the seats somewhat stiff (base RS seats) for longer trips. Fuel mileage is great for this engine and AWD. Ive gotten a best of 32 MPG on the highway in the Winter, driving 120 km/hr. I imagine 35 MPG highway is attainable in the Summer. Features are alright. The radio is poor - changing the faceplate helps. Parts are expensive (import). Id buy another one!

  • Bargain AWD funster with space for stuff - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Had the car for 5 months now. The turbo takes a little getting used to compared with the VR6 torque of my old VW Jetta. You have to spin the engine to get the best from it. Build quality seems to be on a par with VW too if a little plasticky. Hopefully the electrics are better. Time will tell. The 4wd is great in the California downpours we have been experiencing of late. It holds the road like a limpit. Compared it with the new Jetta VR6, Audi 1.8T quattro, Nissan 350Z and Altima when I shopped. Offered the best bang for the buck when hauling 4 and want a manual gearbox.

  • Rocket-powered Rollerskate - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    This is the most exciting automobile that I have ever driven. Taken to the edge of its performance, it is breath-taking. It is not built for larger people. While the seats are comfortable and the controls are all within easy reach, large drivers will find it difficult to enter and exit this sedan. Like most compact sedans, the back seats are even smaller than the front. The boot is very spacious and access is easy. Fuel mileage is highly dependent on how one drives and spirited style will lower the mileage substantially. Quality control standards are equal to or greater than US or European luxury standards.

  • Poor mans M3 - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Car is fantastic to drive around town. Great brakes and acceleration. Engine has lots of torque compared to Mitsu EVO that had no bottom end. 6 speed works well and engine settles down at cruise. Glad I got the 2004 as the 2005 interior and rear flares are not an upgrade. Only the console and HVAC controls are better over the 2004. So - buy the 2004 if you can find one and take the savings to add a killer stereo. Hope they figure out the code on the engine ship soon so we can reflash for more power.

Subaru Impreza Reviews By Year:
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