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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  Felt I was ripped off - 2006 Subaru Impreza
  By Fastwrx415 - April 24 - 11:53 am

  Its been an amazing car, really fun to drive, quick response, no turbo lag, AWD and need I say more. Ive put in over $4k in mods. and its a beast.

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  Drive something else - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By Gen0 - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Have had problems with the brakes, fuel line, the clutch problem everyone reported, interior buzzing noises make me crazy, windows seem like they are going to fall out when cold, driver floormat binds behind pedals, heater is poor, cd player defective and had to be replaced. And that is within only 13000 miles! Performance is good only when turbo kicks in, otherwise its just a 4 banger.

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  Fun Pocket Rocket - 2003 Subaru Impreza
  By FishNutz - April 21 - 2:00 am

  I work with a ton of car buffs who sport around in their 50k porsches or other sports cars. Not all of them appreciate the car design but they all have the same reaction when I drop the clutch at about 3500 RPMs...Holy S!*#!!. If you want a luxury "sports" car look somewhere else. If you want a car that drives like a gokart on steroids this is your ride. With the popularity of the car there are a wide range of modifications coming online for those who want to take the next step in performance.

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  Most Imprezive car in its class. - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By BeverEater - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Before I bought my Impreza RS I researched compact sendans under $20,000 for a few months. The cars that I was looking at where: Toyota Corolla S & Matrix, Nissan Sentra Type R, Honda Civic, Ford Focus, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart and the BMW Mini Cooper (base model). Of all these vehicles I chose the Impreza RS because it offers more performace and features for the price than the competition and Subarus exellent reputation for being reliable. This is a high quality car.

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  This car quietly rocks! - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By RNMorton - April 21 - 2:00 am

  Love it! Traded in a 2004 Nissan Spec- V with great relief, took a massive financial hit, and got twice the car (at a lower price). Quality, performance, and a great great value. Engine cranks up nicely, good compromise on ride/handling, decent mileage and big gas tank, quality interior, all good stuff. This would be a good bargain in the sports sedan class without the 4WD, with the 4WD it kills the competition. And the rep is pretty good for durability and safety. Assuming no service problems, and the same line of cars, Im a Subaru guy for life.

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  Pre-WRX fun car - 2000 Subaru Impreza
  By kramp - April 19 - 10:00 am

  I purchased the 4 door 2.5RS due to the fact that my commute had increased significantly, and I was replacing a 4WD Nissan Pathfinder and wanted something I could take to Tahoe. The build quality of the car itself is quite good, but the interior needs some work. Gas mileage seems to stay constant around 25MPG, which I would have expected to be better, especially w/ no turbo. The stock tires are just barely sufficient for anyone that drives their car hard, but they do allow for good slides :o Overall, the car has been great since I bought it in 2000, with very little in the way of problems (had a leaky windshield in the first rain, and a little recall)

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  The WRX Rocks - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By sourcemonkey - April 19 - 10:00 am

  I know youve heard it a million times, but the WRX Rules. Ive bought mine on New Years Eve and have been happy ever since. I can blow just about anyone away, just ask the guy in the new Altima I dusted at 120 on the way to New Orleans this week. OK so reality check, it is a car under 25k. So its not like your driving in luxury, but if you value performance over floating down the highway this car is for you.

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  2002 WRX Wagon - 2002 Subaru Impreza
  By The Dream - April 16 - 10:00 am

  VERY fun to drive. Disappointed that the wagon doesnt have the same curves / lines on the body as the sedan. ABS too sensitive. Downshifting usually helps... ABS sucks if youre trying to eat an ice cream cone or something though - really is too sensitive - esp. on bumpy roads. Love the car though.. I guess the one thing I would change (and Ive been putting it off) is the ABS. Still havent found affordable fog light covers either.

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  No time for indecision - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By DonPaco - April 16 - 10:00 am

  The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences, and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon. (Alexander Supertramp) In my new subaru I have seen just this. One day in the city the next racing on the beach at 70 mph. What a rush. A real sence of saftey and durability. I traded my 850 turbo wagon for the wrx wagon. What a difference. Just as much power but 1/2 the size and cargo space. It enables you to take roads you wouldnt even think of. Small suv meets sports car with the added bonus of turbo charged awd samuri, at no added cost.

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  Fun and practical - 2004 Subaru Impreza
  By Adrian Smith - April 16 - 10:00 am

  After drooling over the WRX I finally bought one and couldnt be happier. An absolute blast to drive but with plenty of interior room so it still remains practical. Before the WRX, Ive always driven pickups and was worried that I wouldnt have enough space for my camping equipment, but with the rear seats folded forward there was more than enough room. Really dig the way it doesnt look like sports car, but performs like one.