Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Usp:
All-wheel-drive performance, rally-bred heritage, turbocharged Boxer engine.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (discontinued for this generation), Volkswagen Golf GTI, Ford Focus RS (later generation).
Powertrain:
EJ257 2.5L turbocharged Boxer engine, Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Driver Controlled Centre Differential (DCCD).
Performance Enhancements:
Large intercooler, performance exhaust, upgraded suspension components, Brembo brakes.
Engine:
Detailed diagnostics, overhaul, timing belt, cooling system, lubrication, fuel injection, turbocharger system, ECU mapping.
Transmission:
6-speed manual (TY85) gearbox, clutch system, drivetrain components, AWD system (DCCD).
Brakes:
ABS, EBD, Brembo brake system (front and rear calipers, rotors, fluid), parking brake.
Suspension:
Front struts, rear shocks, coil springs, anti-roll bars, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, column, alignment.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, fuses, relays, ECUs, sensors, immobilizer.
Bodywork:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, sunroof, structural components, corrosion protection.
Climate Control:
HVAC system, refrigerant, AC compressor, heater core, blower motor.
Safety Systems:
Airbag system, seatbelts, SRS module, occupant sensors.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic flowcharts, fault code interpretation, symptom-based troubleshooting.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, overhaul procedures, specific repair techniques.
Diagnostics:
OBD-II diagnosis, sensor testing, ECU communication testing.
Recalibration:
Throttle body relearn, ECU reset procedures, ABS sensor calibration.
Depth:
Comprehensive: from basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds.
Detail Level:
Highly detailed with torque specifications, clearances, and diagnostic parameters.
Engine Type:
Horizontally opposed (Boxer), turbocharged, intercooled, DOHC, 16-valve, 4-cylinder
Displacement:
2457 cc (2.5 Liters)
Bore X Stroke:
99.5 mm x 80.0 mm
Horsepower:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential multi-point fuel injection with Electronic Throttle Control
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Type:
Twin-scroll turbocharger
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 8.1 US quarts (7.7 liters)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue)
Oil Capacity:
Approx. 5.7 US quarts (5.4 liters) with filter
Oil Type:
SAE 0W-20 Synthetic (API SN or higher)
Type:
6-speed Manual (TY85)
Type:
None (STI models exclusively manual)
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Centre Differential (manual and auto modes).
AWD System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with front helical LSD and rear Torsen LSD.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru Extra Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Differential Fluid Front Type:
Subaru Extra Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90)
Manual Transmission Capacity:
Approx. 3.3 US quarts (3.1 liters)
NHTSA Overall:
5-Star (for applicable models/configurations)
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for applicable models/configurations)
Traction Control:
Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) with yaw rate, lateral acceleration, and steering angle sensors.
Braking Assist:
Yes (integrated with ABS)
Airbags:
Front dual-stage airbags, front side-impact airbags, curtain airbags, driver's knee airbag.
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
System:
Subaru Starlink infotainment system with touchscreen, AM/FM/CD, HD Radio, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, Bluetooth connectivity.
Navigation:
Optional navigation system.
Features:
Rearview camera, optional EyeSight driver assistance system (on non-STI models, but relevant for the Impreza platform). STI focuses more on driver engagement.
Bluetooth:
Standard for audio streaming and hands-free calling.
Dccd:
Driver Controlled Centre Differential offers adjustable torque split for various driving conditions and styles.
Si Drive:
Subaru Intelligent Drive allows selection of 'Sport', 'Sport Sharp', and 'Intelligent' modes for engine response, steering, and AWD system.
Oil Change:
Every 3,750 miles or 6 months (severe driving conditions), 7,500 miles or 12 months (normal driving conditions) - refer to manual for specific details.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months (severe driving conditions).
Cabin Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 60,000 miles (NGK iridium recommended).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Refer to manual for specific interval, but typically around 105,000 miles. Crucial for EJ257 engine.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (Subaru genuine recommended)
Power Steering Fluid Type:
Subaru ATF-HP (Type H)
Engine:
Ring land failure (especially with aggressive tuning/abuse), head gasket issues (less common than older EJ engines, but still possible), oil consumption.
Clutch:
Wear on the clutch and flywheel, especially with aggressive driving.
Suspension:
Premature wear of certain bushings and sway bar end links.