Segment:
Compact Car / Rally Sport Icon
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, professional service centers.
Key Competitors:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mitsubishi Lancer, Ford Focus
Performance Orientation:
Known for its standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and performance variants (WRX).
Durability:
Subaru's reputation for robust engineering and AWD capability.
Powertrain:
Engine (EJ20, EJ25), Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Drivetrain (AWD System)
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering, Brakes (ABS, Standard), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Instrumentation, Audio System, HVAC Controls, SRS (Airbag) System
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Seats, Glass, Door Mechanisms, Body Sealing
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance Intervals, Fluid Changes (Oil, Coolant, Brake, Transmission, Differential), Filter Replacements, Lubrication Points
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) Interpretation, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Charts, Electrical Schematics, Component Testing Procedures
Repair Overhaul:
Engine Reassembly, Transmission Rebuilds, Suspension Component Replacement, Brake System Overhaul, Electrical Component Repair
Installation Adjustment:
Timing Belt Replacement, Clutch Replacement, Suspension Alignment, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Sensor Calibration
Depth:
Factory-level detail, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Scope:
Covers everything from routine maintenance and fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical system diagnostics, and body repair.
Engine Code Standard:
EJ253 (2.5L SOHC NA)
Engine Code Performance:
EJ205 (2.0L DOHC Turbocharged - WRX)
Horsepower 2.5I:
165 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque 2.5I:
166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Horsepower Wrx:
227 hp @ 5600 rpm
Torque Wrx:
240 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (approx)
Injection Type:
Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane recommended for WRX)
Configuration:
Horizontally Opposed (Boxer) 4-cylinder
Displacement Na:
2.5 Liters (2457 cc)
Displacement Turbo:
2.0 Liters (1994 cc)
Type Na Models:
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Type Na Models:
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) standard on all trims.
AWD System Type:
Viscous coupling center differential (manual), electronically controlled multi-plate clutch center differential (automatic).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
Subaru Extra-S Gear Oil (API GL-5, SAE 75W-90) or equivalent.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent.
NHTSA Front Impact:
4 Stars
NHTSA Side Impact:
4 Stars
Airbags:
Driver and Passenger Frontal Airbags, Optional Side Airbags
Seatbelts:
3-point front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners and load limiters.
Body Structure:
Reinforced safety cage construction.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available.
Traction Control:
Available on some trims/optional.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (depending on driving conditions).
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (critical for EJ engines).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Approximately 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SM/SL or ILSAC GF-4/GF-3 recommended). Consult manual for severe duty.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free, long-life coolant.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent than on earlier EJ engines, the 2.5L NA engines can still be susceptible to head gasket leaks over time. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Oil Consumption:
Some EJ engines, particularly turbo variants, can exhibit increased oil consumption. Manual provides diagnostic procedures.
Clutch Wear:
Standard wear item for manual transmission models, especially under spirited driving. Manual covers inspection and replacement.
Wrx Turbo Issues:
Turbocharger reliability can be affected by oil starvation or overheating if maintenance is neglected. Manual provides specific turbo care guidelines.
Subaru Identity:
Subaru, known for its Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and horizontally opposed Boxer engines, has a history rooted in aviation and robust, reliable vehicles.
Impreza Genesis:
The Impreza was introduced globally in 1992 as a compact car, quickly gaining a reputation for its AWD capabilities and, especially with the WRX variant, its rally sport heritage.
Second Gen Introduction:
The second generation (GD/GG) debuted in 2000 (model year 2002 in North America), featuring a more rounded and aerodynamic design compared to the first generation.
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily manufactured in Gunma, Japan.
Model Variants 2002:
Offered as Sedan and Wagon body styles. Key trims included Outback Sport, 2.5 RS, TS, and the performance-oriented WRX.
Sports Car International:
Subaru Impreza WRX named 'Sports Car International's' best sports sedan of the year in 2002.
Car And Driver:
Often featured on Car and Driver's '10Best' lists in various configurations and years for its performance and value.
Ican Drive:
Consistently praised for its driving dynamics and AWD system by automotive critics.