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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  Great little grocery getter - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By tbs_man - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Perfect car for commuting and even some longer drives. Used mostly in the winter, as I commute via motorcycle in the warmer months. Subie is great in the snow, naturally, though I did add 4 snows to help power through the nasty winter last season. Fresh snow up to 18" didnt stop her; the spoiler would plow the snow into my garage if we had a nasty storm during the day. If you can get past the interior plastics and the poor exterior paint quality when youre driving, and you dont give a hoot what your snooty neighbors think, the WRX is an excellent tool for real driving.

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  Well worth the money, Just buy it! - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By Xman810 - October 20 - 10:00 am

  Got my STI on 7/9. All i can say is, this car is fun as hell to drive in. If i could, I would sleep in it. If anyone is thinking about the STI, stop, dont think, just go out and buy it. Its worth the price its selling for. Very minimal turbo lag. I have had nothing but compliments from people who see me in this car, and this is even coming from people who dont like imports.

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  It saddens me. - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By Cagar aStoirm - October 20 - 10:00 am

  After having my WRX for two years I turned it in for the STi. The dealership, of course, did not allow a test drive and they also kicked it up a bit above MSRP. The problem which occured was with the seats. After driving it home my back ached. I figured I would fiddle with the seat more. After two weeks my back was not better the seats just didnt fit me correctly, hence I was forced to sell my STi recently.

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  If only.... - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By schmootz - October 18 - 12:50 pm

  they had made it a bit more comfy. The interior looks and feels cheap. The cupholders stink! (one lets cups fly out around curves).

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  Big Improvement - 2012 Subaru Impreza
  By bng77 - October 14 - 9:13 pm

  This car is light years ahead of the previous generation Impreza. It looks better, has a much nicer interior, has more room for both passengers and cargo, and handles much better. The 2nd generation CVT is much smoother and more efficient than the old 4 speed automatic transmission it replaces. I just drove it about 60 miles in a snow storm, and even with the lower resistance tires Subaru has switched to, it handled great. I have been averaging 31 MPG in mixed driving which is right where the EPA says it should be. I was able to coax 35 MPG out of my last tank of gas by driving the car more like you would a Prius i.e., easing up on the gas pedal while cruising letting the CVT do its thing.

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  Sweet HB - 2012 Subaru Impreza
  By kanjii - October 14 - 4:00 am

  Loved the car when I first test drove it with the CVT tranny, but wanted the 5 speed manual. Very happy with the decision. I love the secure feel of AWD and the car is roomy inside. Stereo was OK when listening to the stations, but much better sounds from CDs and MP3. Exterior is beautiful and the rims are awesome. Engine is good, not a racy type of engine at all. Throttle response is slow, but still fun to drive, especially around curves. The Yokohama tires hold the dry pavement great, but will know soon about the wet and snow.

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  WRX - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By BillR - October 13 - 6:43 pm

  The car is just plain ugly and looks like all the interior pieces are out of the bargain bin.

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  Subaru...Love it! - 2006 Subaru Impreza
  By soulxchill - October 12 - 7:20 am

  I traded my VW Golf for the Impreza 2.5i sedan. I wanted the WRX but cant swing the cash. For the money, the Impreza 2.5i is outstanding. You can really feel the 170 HP because the car is so light. The boxer engine shifts smooth as silk. The AWD is also excellent. This car handles very well for its class and feels super solid when driving. it really is a blast to drive. I have no trouble getting on the gas at 60mph to blow by someone on the highway, the torque and HP are great. I ask for the power and its there! You really couldnt get a better car for the money.

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  Love My Subaru - 2006 Subaru Impreza
  By MW3304 - October 11 - 10:00 am

  Bought with 33k on the clock. Cant go wrong with this one, peppy, planted, sips gas, good looking

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  Primo Sleeper - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By DelmarRex - October 9 - 1:46 am

  After 2-1/2 years, this car is still a blast to drive. Beats all other stock, street cars! Ive been driving Subarus since 1980 for their 4/all wheel drive, reliability, good gas mileage, and all-around handling, and now I can have zip, too! I get 26 mpg highway and 20 to 21 mpg around town. Pretty good considering I drive the car hard. Keep the rpms above 3200 and nothing will catch you. No repairs, just normal maintenance. What a great car for relatively very little money.