Can you turbo charge an Impreza?

Yes in theory you can, but not in the straightforward, factory-backed way you might expect. There is no current factory turbo option for a standard Impreza, and building a turbocharged setup requires substantial work. Most buyers who want turbocharged performance either buy the WRX/WRX STI, opt for an aftermarket route on a NA engine, or pursue an engine swap—each path carries significant cost, complexity, and risk.

Historically, Subaru did offer turbocharged Impreza variants such as the WRX and the 2.5GT, but today’s Impreza lineup is generally aspirated. The practical takeaway is simple: if you want turbocharged acceleration from a Subaru, you’ll be looking at a WRX/WRX STI or a carefully planned aftermarket project, not a plug-and-play upgrade to a base Impreza. The following sections outline options, costs, and considerations for anyone exploring this path.

Paths to turbocharged performance

Several routes exist to introduce turbocharged power to an Impreza, but each has its own requirements and trade-offs. Below are the main options people pursue, along with what they typically entail.

Factory option: WRX and WRX STI

The most straightforward way to get turbocharged performance is to buy a Subaru WRX or WRX STI, which are built around turbocharged engines and tuned for higher output from the factory. This path offers warranty coverage, built-in drivetrain compatibility, and predictable performance, but it comes with higher purchase price and different maintenance costs compared to a base Impreza.

Aftermarket turbo kits for the NA engine

Some enthusiasts pursue aftermarket turbo kits designed for the Impreza’s current NA engines (for example, the 2.0-liter boxer in many recent models). These kits require extensive supporting upgrades (fuel system, intercooler, exhaust, ECU tuning, cooling, and sometimes transmission considerations). Results and reliability vary widely by kit, tuner, and how well the install is executed. Legal and emissions implications should be evaluated before proceeding.

Engine swap to a turbocharged Subaru engine

A more radical option is an engine swap to a turbocharged Subaru powerplant (such as a WRX or a legacy turbo engine) paired with appropriate transmission, wiring, and ECU integration. This approach can deliver legitimate turbo performance, but it is among the most complex and expensive routes, often requiring custom fabrication, drivetrain compatibility work, and long-term reliability planning.

Conclusion for this section: If you want turbocharged performance without building a custom engine, the factory WRX is the most reliable and supported option. If you’re pursuing a NA-to-turbo route or an engine swap, plan on significant customization, professional installation, and careful budgeting.

Costs, reliability, and regulatory considerations

Any path toward turbocharging an Impreza involves more than just buying a turbo and bolting it on. Below are key factors to consider before committing to a project.

• Parts and kit costs: Aftermarket turbo kits for NA Subarus vary widely in price, and you may need extra components (fuel injectors, fuel pump, intercooler, piping, exhaust, oil lines).


• Labor and installation: Expect substantial labor time for installation, tuning, and potential custom fabrication.


• Fuel system and internals: Upgraded fuel delivery and possibly stronger pistons/connecting rods may be required for reliable operation, especially at higher boost levels.


• Engine management and tuning: A proper, dyno-tuned ECU calibration is essential to avoid detonation and ensure safe operation.


• Transmission and drivetrain: The stock transmission (often CVT in base models) may limit torque handling, and supporting upgrades (clutch, driveshafts, differential) could be necessary.


• Cooling and reliability: Boosted engines produce more heat; upgraded intercooling and cooling systems are typically needed to maintain reliability.


• Emissions and registration: Many jurisdictions require emissions testing; significant modifications can affect car registration, inspection, and warranty status.

Conclusion: Turbocharging a base Impreza can be done, but it is a high-stakes project with uncertain reliability, ongoing maintenance costs, and potential legal hurdles. For many buyers, the WRX provides the intended turbocharged experience with far fewer unknowns.

Practical steps if you pursue turbocharging

If you decide to pursue a turbo project, use the following steps as a roadmap to avoid common pitfalls.

1. Define your goal, budget, and acceptable risk level (factory vs aftermarket vs swap).


2. Check local emissions and vehicle regulations to understand compliance requirements.


3. Choose a path (WRX-based route, NA turbo kit, or engine swap) and assess feasibility for your specific model year.


4. Consult a reputable tuner or shop with Subarus history; obtain a detailed quote and timeline.


5. Source required parts (kit, fuel system, ECU, intercooler, cooling, exhaust) and plan for any fabrication needs.


6. Prepare for installation, tuning, and post-tune dyno testing; budget for contingencies.


7. Monitor reliability and performance after installation; address any issues promptly to protect longevity.

Conclusion: A careful, well-planned approach with professional support is essential for any turbo project on a base Impreza. The ticket to dependable results is expertise, not haste.

Summary

In short, you can pursue turbocharged performance on an Impreza, but there is no current factory turbo option for the standard lineup. The practical paths are to buy a WRX/WRX STI, or to embark on a complex aftermarket route or engine swap, each with significant cost, complexity, and regulatory considerations. For many drivers, the most reliable, straightforward route to turbo power remains the WRX family, while enthusiasts willing to invest time and money can explore aftermarket or swap options with careful planning and expert guidance.

Can I add a turbo to a non-turbo car?

Yes, you can fit a turbo to a non-turbo engine, but it is a complex and expensive modification that requires more than just bolting on a turbo. It involves significant upgrades to the fuel system, cooling system, and potentially the engine's internal components to handle the increased power and heat. For best results and reliability, using a kit designed for your specific vehicle is recommended, and often, swapping in a factory turbo engine is a more cost-effective solution. 
Key modifications required

• Exhaust and intake manifolds: The factory exhaust manifold must be replaced with one that can mount a turbocharger. 
• Fuel system: The fuel system will need to be upgraded to deliver more fuel, which may require a higher-volume fuel pump and larger injectors. 
• Engine tuning: The engine control unit (ECU) must be reprogrammed to manage the new air-fuel mixture and ignition timing. This can be done with a programmable ECU or by tuning the factory one. 
• Cooling system: An intercooler is essential to cool the compressed air from the turbo, making it denser and less prone to detonation. The engine's cooling system may also need to be upgraded. 
• Internal engine components: For higher boost levels, you may need to replace internal components like pistons, connecting rods, and even the crankshaft to handle the increased pressure. 
• Other drivetrain components: The increased power may exceed the capacity of your clutch, transmission, and differential, so these may also need to be upgraded. 

When it's not recommended

• Budget constraints: Adding a turbo can be very expensive, with costs potentially reaching $3,000 to $7,000 or more depending on the parts and labor involved. 
• Engine reliability: Without proper tuning and internal upgrades, adding a turbo to a non-turbo engine can lead to a short lifespan for the engine. 
• Engine design: Some engines are not well-suited for turbocharging and may not have the necessary space or strength to handle it, even with modifications. 

Alternative solution

• Engine swap: In some cases, it may be cheaper and more effective to swap in a factory-turbocharged engine from the same or a similar vehicle, as this will include all the necessary supporting hardware. 

What year to stay away from a Subaru Impreza?

Years to avoid for the Subaru Impreza include 2012 and 2013, which had issues with the transmission and other reliability problems. The 2008 model is also often cited as a year to avoid, though specific reasons aren't as widely mentioned in the provided results. If considering an older model, be wary of models from 1996-2005 that may have used engines prone to head gasket failure. 
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the 2012-2016 Impreza: 59sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Jan 11, 2023
Years to avoid

• 2012: This model had issues with the transmission, particularly the continuously variable transmission (CVT), with some units potentially experiencing sudden acceleration. 
• 2013: A bad year for the Impreza due to multiple issues, including engine and transmission problems and low owner satisfaction scores from Consumer Reports. 
• 2008: Often listed as a year to avoid, it was the first year of the third generation and may have had specific drawbacks. 
• 1996-2005: These years, especially with the EJ25 engine, had a known issue with head gasket failures, leading to costly repairs. 

What to look for instead

• Post-2013 models: Generally, newer models have improved reliability, with the 2022 model being a good example. 
• 2015 or later CVTs: If buying a model with a CVT, 2015 or newer models generally had better versions of the transmission. 

This video discusses common problems in the 2011-2017 Impreza: 1m1A Auto: Repair Tips & Secrets Only Mechanics KnowYouTube · Jul 5, 2023

Are Imprezas turbo charged?

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Which Subaru models are turbo charged?

Explore Our Range of Turbocharged Subaru Vehicles For Enhanced Performance. Subaru offers a diverse lineup of models available with a turbocharged engine: the adventure-seeking Outback, the fun and sporty WRX, the convenient and stylish Legacy, and the spacious Ascent.