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 21 through 30 of 198.00
  • Perfect WRX Upgrade - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I owned a 2002 WRX, and mildly modified many aspects of it trying to achieve a faster, better handling car. To paraphrase the old fruit drink commercial: "Shoulda bought a STi."

  • STi Performance with RS Style - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I previously owned an Intrepid with roughly the same MPG, but nowhere close to the responsiveness, handling or acceleration of the Japanese Monster. Prior to purchasing the STi I did a little research on the Evo MR. For the price and resale value, you just cant beat the Subie. Granted the Evo has a slight advantage in most categories, the Impreza is much more fun on a daily basis and as a daily drive. IMO if you are looking for a strictly track car get the MR, if you plan on having a life outside of direct competition, you better bet the STi takes the win. Subaru has an awesome track record, unlike most of its Japanese-American counterparts.

  • Very solid, just a few minor dislikes - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I have 83,000 miles on the clock at this time. Its been very solid and reliable. It drives pretty well. I have found over the years that the suspension does not feel as solid and connected to the road as it used to. The interior noise can be bad when you have passengers. Overall its been a very reliable and solid car.

  • Most bang for buck - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Im writing this review because I just finished my 45-mile commute in the snow and it was actually a pleasant ride. The car is stable and comfortable in any situation: high speed, low speed, rain, snow, dirt or mud, etc. Its not perfect: I am seriously upgrading to a Legacy GT Wagon or an A4 Avant, but for $21k, its the most practical, fun, and reliable car out there. Just dont expect luxury. 40,000 miles in 1.5 years and no problems except for a few rattles, which is something youll hear a lot with Subarus. I drive 80mph to work in dry weather (all highway), and I get only 21 mpg, so lack of a 6th speed is disappointing.

  • Outstanding all-around car - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Fast, reliable, excellent utility. I can haul snowboards to the mountains and take it to a track day and still have a blast. Easily customized. Reprogram the ECU for an easy ~25hp bump. Driveability improves as boost comes on sooner. Short shifter kit also suggested. I only get 22mpg on mixed commute.

  • 20 Minute Vacation - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Moving from a 2004 WRX Wagon, my 2005 STI fixes the few things that I would have changed about the standard WRX . Power and handling come together providing entertainment that I couldnt afford before the STI. The wing is a bit outrageous and upsets many people on the road but Im having more fun than 99.9% of the driving public. Did I mention the power and handling.....

  • WRX STI overview - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I thought this was a great little sportscar so i bought it. As it turs out it was aalot more than just that, it was more

  • 2005 Subaru WRX STi - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Excellent power range and handling. I have a neck injury that is somewhat aggravated if Im in the car for more than two hours. The car attracts more attention than I had counted on but the majority is positive. I used to drive 5- 10 mph over the speed limit, I now go at the limit or 5 mph under. The noise level is livable. Ergonomics are excellent. Im 63, 190# and I have no problem getting in or out of the car. There are several seating positions that I find comfortable. The back seat is big enough for two adults. The paint is very hard which makes it scratch easily, the trunk is spacious, gas mileage is about 20 mpg.

  • 4 months with an 05 STI - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I traded an 03 Acura RSX Type S for this car, what a change! Where the RSX was an indiffenent performer in the upper gears, the STI gives each one its own personality. I have the short throw shifter, which is stiff and notchy compared to the RSX, but when you punch it in 3d or 4th, WOW! Surprisingly, I think the boxer engine is smoother than the Acuras, so much so that I enjoy holding it in the mid to upper rev range - and what a great sound it makes! The ride is stiff, almost overly so, but theres more noise insulation than in the RSX, so its actually quieter. Fortunately the roads around Tucson are mostly asphalt. The cornering is phenomenal, I

  • An Excellent Value - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    I have ~5000 miles on Scoobie and it is a fine car so far. My wife wanted a wagon and I wanted a Mustang GT - a good compromise? I think so. Decent performance but this car is rough around the edges - the ride is firm, mechanical clatter and road noise are always present. Scoobies economy car roots show through at times.

Subaru Impreza Reviews By Year:
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