Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza is one of the most famous of all Subaru models, and since starting production in 1992, it continues to be a flagship compact model of the range, having gained global popularity. The Subaru Impreza actually uses the same basic platform as the Subaru Forester, and over the years has been developed into a truly eclectic range with enough generations and styles to form an entire marque of its own.

Essential Stats For The Subaru Impreza

Key Stats for the First-Generation Subaru Impreza (1992)

Wheelbase: 2,520mm
Length: 4,340mm
Width: 1,690mm
Height: Max. 1,405mm
Curb Weight: 1,220kg

Key Stats for the Second-Generation Subaru Impreza (2000)

Wheelbase: 2,525mm
Length: 4,415mm
Width: 1,730mm (Saloon); 1,695mm (Estate)
Height: Max. 1,425mm
Curb Weight: 1,360kg

Key Stats for the Third-Generation Subaru Impreza (2007)

Wheelbase: 2,620mm
Length: 4,580mm (Saloon); 4,415mm (Hatchback)
Width: 1,740mm
Height: Max. 1,475mm
Curb Weight: 1,394kg

Key Stats for the Fourth-Generation Subaru Impreza (2011)

Wheelbase: 2,644mm
Length: 4,580mm (Saloon); 4,414mm (Hatchback)
Width: 1,740mm
Height: Max. 1,465mm
Curb Weight: 1,320kg

Key Stats for the Fifth-Generation Subaru Impreza (2016)

Wheelbase: 2,670mm
Length: 4,625mm (Saloon); 4,460mm (Hatchback)
Width: 1,775mm
Height: Max. 1,455mm (Saloon); 1,480mm (Hatchback)
Curb Weight: 1,386-1,433kg

Subaru Impreza: Background

In the nearly 30 years of its development, the Subaru Impreza has covered many types of body and style. Most often it has been either a 4-door or 5-door saloon. If you can picture it, there were even coupe and estate models. It’s had FWD and AWD layouts, Subaru boxer engines from 1.5L to 2.5L, and even high-performance variants, which are arguably the most iconic and desired — the Impreza WRX. So big was the impact of these sportier and more powerful versions, that the letters WRX became the adopted moniker for a high-performance Subaru of any stripe.

Through the Generations

The first through fourth generations of the Impreza all boasted a WRX high-performance variant. The fourth and fifth generation of models even included an off-road variant called the Crosstrek, but that was only in the North American market, similar to the Outback Sport package that had existed beforehand.

As with many other Subarus, the range of boxer engines, transmissions, safety features and interior additions were always augmented over the years. Each generation of street car was improved to look more refined, and the interior improved to include the latest technology. Meanwhile, the WRX models were boosted to new performance heights, with some even taking part in motorsports events.

In fact, Impreza as a build has been among Subaru’s most successful models in the World Rally championship, far more so than those of the flagship Legacy saloon. It’s interesting to note how motorsport success tends to affect sales of the street-legal version of the car. The Mitsubishi Pajero experienced a similar phenomenon after winning the Paris Dakar Rally in 1985 and many subsequent years and other prizes after that.

A fleeting glance at Impreza sales even just in the US shows a general upward trend since 2007. It’s not been an increase every single year, but it was around 46,000 sales in 2007 compared to 219,000 in 2019. The trajectory is up, up, up. If this isn’t proof positive of the superior build of the Subaru Impreza, then what else can be?

Attraction as a JDM Import

Above we’ve touched on the fact that the Japanese imports of Subaru Impreza are consistently popular in the UK for many reasons, but primarily over questions of performance difference.

It’s Not a Rare Model, and is Reliable

The somewhat ubiquitous nature of the Impreza around the world makes it a great JDM choice because of the abundance of spare parts and knowledge of the car’s mechanics, which keeps maintenance and running costs down. There’s also less risk involved. With some rare JDM imports, you always have the risk of having to resort to potentially expensive junk yard or eBay sales for spare parts. The Impreza doesn’t run this risk. It’s a global name, and the model still exists, meaning that replacement parts are a doddle.

On top of all that, the commonly imported performance models like the WRX and STi variants are among the most reliable Japanese imports for sale in the UK that you’ll find. You’re so unlikely to be faced with some repair bill within any significant period of ownership.

Sheer Performance of The Subaru Impreza

If you opt for a WRX, or STi variant, you are looking at incredibly high horsepower, as well as unbeatable AWD, phenomenal engine balancing and fantastic on-road feel. The JDM Impreza can handle super-tight corners and narrow country roads just as well as it can cruise down your nearest motorway. These imported Impreza cars often break the 400hp mark, and will most likely be far cheaper than any performance car that you’d look to purchase in the UK — possibly thousands cheaper.

Why not peruse our range of Subaru Impreza cars for yourself and see what’s on offer? Those looking for a performance boost, or just a generally higher-specification car at a surprisingly good price. For more information, get in touch with us today.

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