Segment:
Performance Compact Sedan/Hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiast drivers, tuners, owners seeking detailed DIY repair information.
Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Volkswagen GTI, Mazdaspeed3
Performance Heritage:
Renowned for rally heritage, turbocharged Boxer engines, and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Model Variants:
WRX (sport-tuned) and STI (motorsport-derived homologation special).
Powertrain:
Engine (2.5L Turbo EJ255/EJ257), Transmission (Manual), Drivetrain (AWD)
Chassis:
Suspension, Steering, Brakes, Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Engine Control Module (ECM), Body Control Module (BCM), Lighting, Audio, HVAC, SRS (Airbag), Security System
Body:
Exterior Body Panels, Interior Trim, Glass, Doors, Seats
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), wiring diagrams, component testing
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component renewal, electrical component repair
Installation:
Component replacement, accessory installation (where applicable)
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic fluid checks to full engine and transmission rebuilds, including detailed electrical schematics and diagnostic procedures.
Type:
2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 (EJ255)
Horsepower Hp Wrx:
265 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Lb Ft Wrx:
244 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Type:
2.5L Turbocharged Boxer-4 (EJ257)
Horsepower Hp Sti:
305 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque Lb Ft Sti:
290 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Type:
Sequential Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPI)
Fuel Requirement:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 Octane or higher recommended)
ECU:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) with advanced tuning capabilities.
Type:
6-Speed Manual Transmission
Type:
N/A (Manual transmission only for these performance variants)
System:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) on STI
Type:
Hydraulic Actuated, Single Dry Plate Clutch
NHTSA Overall Rating:
5-Star (for the standard Impreza platform, specific WRX/STI ratings may vary slightly)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Esc:
Electronic Stability Control (VDC - Vehicle Dynamics Control)
Traction Control:
Traction Control System (TCS)
Airbags:
Front, Side Curtain, and Knee Airbags
Structure:
Advanced front and side-impact energy-absorbing structure
System Features:
Base audio system with CD player, MP3 capability, and auxiliary input. Optional navigation system available on some trims.
Features:
ABS, VDC, TCS, standard cruise control.
Ports:
Auxiliary audio input jack.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe use) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal use)
Air Filter Interval:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed.
Spark Plug Interval:
Approx. 30,000-60,000 miles (depending on plug type, Irridium recommended)
Timing Belt Interval:
N/A (Subaru EJ25 engines utilize a timing chain system, which generally does not require periodic replacement unless worn.)
Engine Oil:
SAE 5W-30, API SG or higher (check manual for specific certifications, synthetic recommended for performance)
Coolant:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4 or GL-5, 75W-90 (manual transmission)
Differential Fluid Front:
API GL-5, 75W-90
Differential Fluid Rear:
API GL-5, 75W-90 (limited-slip differentials may have specific additives or oil types, check manual)
Engine Wear:
Ring land failures ( EJ25 engines), head gasket leaks (less common in later models but still possible), oil consumption.
Transmission Issues:
Clutch wear, especially with aggressive driving. Gear grinding can occur if fluid is neglected.
Suspension:
Strut failure, bushing wear common with high mileage and performance driving.
Turbocharger:
Turbocharger wear and failure can occur due to lack of proper warm-up/cool-down and oil maintenance.
Heritage:
Subaru's deep roots in rally racing and motorsport, leading to the development of performance-oriented models.
Third Generation:
This 2012 model is part of the third generation (GE/GH/GR/GV) Impreza, which introduced a more mainstream design and the WRX/STI continued on a shared platform with the standard Impreza, unlike previous generations which had unique bodies.
Production Period:
2007-2014 (Third Generation platform)
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
