Vehicle Segment:
Compact sports sedan/hatchback
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, performance-oriented drivers, rally-inspired vehicle owners
Key Competitors:
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru WRX (non-STI variants), Volkswagen Golf R, Ford Focus RS
Performance Orientation:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD), turbocharged Boxer engine, performance-tuned suspension
Rally Heritage:
Direct lineage from Subaru's successful World Rally Championship (WRC) cars
Engine System:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, emissions, starting, charging
Transmission System:
Manual transmission (TY856), clutch system, drivetrain components (driveshafts, differentials)
Braking System:
Front and rear brakes (Brembo calipers), ABS, brake fluid, parking brake
Suspension System:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts front, double wishbone rear), alignment, steering components
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting, instruments, audio system, power accessories, fuses, relays, battery, starter, alternator
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, glass, safety systems (airbags), frame and structure
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair
ECU And Sensors:
Engine Control Unit (ECU) diagnosis, sensor readings, wiring, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs)
Maintenance Procedures:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt inspection/replacement
Repair Procedures:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component replacement, turbocharger service
Troubleshooting Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and complex issues, electrical troubleshooting charts
Diagnostic Procedures:
On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II) system usage, reading DTCs, data stream interpretation
Special Tools:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics including sensor data interpretation, ECU programming (if applicable/covered)
Repair Complexity:
Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls
Wiring Diagrams:
Detailed, section-specific electrical wiring diagrams
Transmission Type:
6-speed Manual Transmission (TY856)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (STI models exclusively featured manual transmission)
Drivetrain:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically actuated, multi-plate clutch
Differentials:
Front Helical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD), Rear Mechanical Limited-Slip Differential (LSD)
Length:
174.2 inches (Hatchback), 179.7 inches (Sedan)
Height:
57.7 inches (Hatchback), 57.3 inches (Sedan)
Curb Weight:
Approx. 3300-3350 lbs (depending on body style)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Approx. 4500 lbs
Cargo Volume Hatchback:
Approx. 19.0 cu ft (rear seats up)
Cargo Volume Sedan:
Approx. 11.3 cu ft
NHTSA Front Crash Test:
5-star
NHTSA Side Crash Test:
5-star
IIHS Top Safety Pick:
Yes (for models with specific features)
Traction Control:
Standard
Electronic Stability Control:
Standard (Vehicle Dynamics Control - VDC)
Antilock Braking System:
Standard (ABS)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags, front side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags
Seat Belts:
3-point height-adjustable front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM/CD with MP3 capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio compatibility, auxiliary input. Optional navigation system.
Display:
Multi-function display in dashboard for climate control and audio information.
All Wheel Drive System:
Subaru's Symmetrical AWD with Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) offering manual adjustment of torque split.
Performance Modes:
SI-DRIVE (Subaru Intelligent Drive) system offering three modes: Intelligent, Sport, and Sport Sharp.
Usb Port:
Auxiliary input standard, USB may vary by trim/options.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe duty/enthusiast driving), 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000 miles or 12 months
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (specific iridium type)
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (API SN or ILSAC GF-5 certified)
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 4.7 US quarts (with filter)
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent
Transmission Fluid Type:
Subaru ExtraS (or equivalent) for 6MT, or API GL-4 SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 Brake Fluid
Head Gaskets:
While less prevalent on EJ257 than earlier EJ25s, it's a common concern for EJ engines. Manual will guide inspection.
Ringland Failure:
Can occur in high-mileage or heavily modified engines. Manual provides diagnostic paths.
Clutch Wear:
Performance driving can accelerate clutch wear. Manual details inspection and replacement.
Subaru Legacy:
Subaru's long history in motorsport, particularly WRC, cemented the Impreza's performance reputation.
Third Generation Launch:
The 2008 model marked the beginning of the third generation (GR/GV), introducing a significant styling change with the hatchback model.
Sti Distinction:
The STI variant consistently represented the pinnacle of Impreza performance, featuring enhanced engines, suspensions, and drivetrains.
Production Location:
Gunma Plant, Japan