2002-2007 Subaru Impreza - Consumer Guide Automotive

Category	Subaru Impreza WRX sedan, manual Rating (See All Ratings)

Performance	7

Fuel Economy	5

Ride Quality	4

Steering/Handling/Braking	8

Quietness	4

Controls/Materials	6

Interior Room	5

Room/Comfort (rear)	3

Cargo Capacity	2

Value within Class	5

Total Score:	49

Ratings: Maximum 10 points per category

Chart: One rating chart provided for a representative model

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2002-2007 Subaru Impreza Review

Subaru redesigned its smaller series for 2002, repositioning the Impreza from an entry-level car to a "premium" subcompact. Coupe models were dropped. Sedans now came in 165-horsepower 2.5 RS and 227-horsepower turbo WRX versions. Wagons reflected that choice with 2.5 TS and WRX models, augmented by an SUV-flavored Outback with the 2.5-liter engine. All models had new styling, four-cylinder engines with horizontally-opposed cylinders, and manual or optional automatic transmissions. WRX Imprezas were patterned after Subaru's World Rally competition cars. All Imprezas had all-wheel drive, antilock braking, a CD player, and power windows/locks. Sedans had slightly wider front bodywork than wagons. WRX sedans and wagons included a sport suspension, an aluminum hood with functional scoop, and special interior trim and seats. Rivals included the Ford Focus, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Volkswagen Golf/Jetta.

Year to Year Changes

2003 Subaru Impreza: Only detail updates were evident for 2003. The 2.5 RS sedan, 2.5 TS wagon, and SUV-flavored Outback Sport wagon used a 165-horsepower 2.5-liter engine. Counterpart WRX models had a 227-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter. All Imprezas had cruise control, a CD player, and power windows/locks. For 2003, the 2.5 RS and the Outback Sport added standard remote keyless entry. All models gained dual visor vanity mirrors and a lighted ignition switch.

2004 Subaru Impreza: A super-performance WRX STi sedan joined the lineup for 2004, packing a 300-horsepower turbocharged engine. The STi was developed by Subaru's performance division: Subaru Technica International. Equipped with 17-inch wheels, the STi featured a taller hood scoop, larger "biplane" rear spoiler, and unique cabin trim. Audio equipment was an option on the STi, which aimed at enthusiasts. All Imprezas were facelifted for 2004, featuring larger headlamps in a reshaped nose. Also this year, WRX models gained revised front seats and gauge cluster. Heated front seats and a sunroof were newly optional.

2005 Subaru Impreza: Interior revisions and two new appearance-enhanced models highlight 2005 for the smallest Subarus. For '05, Imprezas get upgraded interior materials, a new center console and door panels, and exchange a 4-spoke steering wheel for a 3-spoke design. WRX and STi gain automatic climate control and, along with the 2.5 RS Sport, an in-dash CD changer. New for '05 is the 2.5 RS Sport sedan with WRX-style lower body trim, seats, steering wheel, and audio system. Also new is the Outback Sport Special Edition with rear spoiler, interior upgrades, and CD changer.

2006 Subaru Impreza: Impreza expands its sporty WRX roster for 2006, and all versions of Subaru's smallest cars get freshened styling and more standard safety features. For '06, base-level sedans and wagons are renamed 2.5i from 2.5 RS. Like the Outback, they have 173 hp, a gain of 10. WRX models gain a base WRX TR sedan and a top-line Limited sedan and wagon. These retain turbo power, but replace a 217-hp 2.0-liter engine with a 230-hp 2.5. WRXs exchange 16-inch wheels for standard 17s for '06; the STI retains 17s. Front side airbags providing head and torso protection are standard on all Imprezas for '06 vs. just WRX and STI previously. All get a revised nose and taillamps.

2007 Subaru Impreza: Impreza carries over unchanged.

2002-2007 Subaru Impreza Road Test >

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