2005 Subaru Impreza Research & Reviews

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
  • Not just a WRX on steroids - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Ive driven and owned a variety of Subaru cars for the last ten years. My previous car being a 2002 WRX which Ive had for over three years. So when I first got to test drive the STi, I just couldnt believe the difference in performance, especially in cornering speed and suspension dynamics. The 6MT transmission (with factory installed short shifter) is the best manual transmission Subaru has to offer by far. NVH? I call that communication with the road. Its funny, my 2005 STi has the EXACT same rattles as my 2002 WRX. I wouldnt have it any other way.

  • 2005 Aspen White STI - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    New for the 2005 STI: new Helical Front limited slip differential new power steering oil cooler new wider 8" wheel (replaces 7.5") new rear wheel arch flares, body colored (because the new 8" whl?) new Immobilizer key, 3 supplied. Needed to start car new climate control new air filtration new smoked headlight lens new re-designed keyless remote fob new seat cushion side bolster material new center console cupholders, replaces the one by the center vent new sam/fm/CD changer w/ bass, mid, treble adjustments, 6 spkrs new door armrest redesigned, now cloth, includes mirror controls new colors I love this car!!

  • Good Time! - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    The car has been great. My only negative is the OEM tires. The tires have not held up as well as I would have hoped for. I can only go on them for another 5000 miles before I will have to purchase new ones. Besides that the car is a great time. It will toss you back in your seat under hard acceleration and stops on a dime. Overall the car is amazing!

  • awesome - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    incredible vehicle, love it to death and will buy a new one.

  • 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.

  • Amazing car - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    Coming from a 02 WRX, this is an amazing car. I cannot believe the difference between my Stage 1 WRX and the STi. The torque delivery, overall smoothness and minimal turbo lag, make me a happy person. The suspension is much tighter than the WRX, but that is totally expected. I also hear of some people saying the seats are too hard..give me a break! The shifter, transmission and brakes shine compared to my WRX. The throws are much shorter and the gearing seems to complement the whole package with a nice brake setup too. Dont get me wrong, I think the WRX is an awesome car and Ill miss mine, but the STi is filling the void with no problems :)

  • 05 Impreza - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    This is simply the best vehicle I have ever owned. Its fun, reliable, efficient, and wont get me stuck (in western NY winters).

  • Good For The Money - 2005 Subaru Impreza
    By -

    This is an excellent small sedan that, while not a WRX, is still plenty of fun. The reliability and build quality have proven to be top notch so far. The interior is well-designed and sporty-feeling, and I personally LOVE the exterior design of the Impreza. Acceleration is very good from any speed, handling is very predictable, and the motor has a nice deep rumble to it. The ride quality is very good, though to compensate, there is quite a bit of body roll during aggressive cornering. Fuel economy is good for a 3000-pound car with all-wheel-drive; Ive been getting around 25 mpg with hard driving, both city and highway. All in all, a great choice if you just cant afford a WRX.

Subaru Impreza Reviews By Year:
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