How reliable is the 2023 Subaru Impreza?
The 2023 Subaru Impreza is a solidly reliable compact with standard all‑wheel drive and a suite of safety features, but it doesn’t stand out as exceptionally reliable in its class. Maintenance tends to be typical for a small AWD car, and issues, when they occur, are usually manageable with routine care.
This article surveys reliability benchmarks from major sources, examines owner experiences, discusses expected maintenance costs, and considers safety and recall context to help readers gauge long‑term dependability for the 2023 Impreza.
Reliability benchmarks for the 2023 Impreza
Reliability is a blend of expert ratings, owner experiences, and cost of ownership. Below are the principal signals used by buyers to gauge how the Impreza holds up over time.
Independent reliability ratings
Consumer ratings, J.D. Power assessments, and brand reliability trends shape expectations for the Impreza. In general, Subaru has a reputation for solid reliability in the non-luxury segment, and the Impreza inherits that pattern with typical maintenance needs and fewer chronic, model-wide defects.
- Consumer Reports generally places Subaru models, including the Impreza, in the reliable-to-very-reliable range for the class, with predicted reliability that tends to be above average for compact cars.
- J.D. Power’s quality and reliability scores for Subaru suggest the brand performs competently among mainstream automakers, with the Impreza aligning with the segment’s norms on maintenance and dependability.
- Repair‑Pal and similar ownership-cost sources typically rate the Impreza’s annual maintenance and repair costs as middle-of-the-pack for compact AWD vehicles, reflecting average parts and service expenses.
- Subaru’s resale values remain a relative strength, aided by standard AWD, strong safety perception, and brand loyalty.
Overall, the reliability signals from these sources indicate the 2023 Impreza is a dependable choice in its segment, without notable widespread reliability red flags.
Owner and reviewer perspectives
Real-world impressions from journalists and owners provide practical context beyond formal ratings, highlighting everyday reliability and potential quirks.
What critics say
Reviewers highlight the Impreza’s practicality, AWD usefulness in inclement weather, and a straightforward, user-friendly interior. The core reliability takeaway is that the 2023 model benefits from Subaru’s long‑standing focus on durability, while acknowledging that some buyers notice CVT refinement and infotainment quirks more than mechanical failures.
- Pros include dependable all‑season traction, predictable handling, and solid safety features.
- Cons cited by some reviewers concern engine cadence and refinement in highway cruising, particularly with the CVT, which can feel less responsive to a driver who wants spirited acceleration.
- Infotainment and connectivity glitches are occasional gripes for a subset of owners, though many report satisfactory performance after updates or routine resets.
Taken together, critics generally portray the 2023 Impreza as a practical, dependable small car with AWD, suitable for daily driving and mixed weather, while noting the usual caveats about CVT feel and interior material quality.
Maintenance, ownership costs, and practical reliability considerations
Understanding ongoing costs helps separate nominal reliability from affordability over time. The Impreza’s ownership math is shaped by its drivetrain, maintenance interval, and tires, all of which influence long‑term dependability in everyday use.
Before you read the list, note that typical maintenance costs and ownership experiences reflect average values across the model life, with variation by region, trim, and individual vehicle history.
- Routine maintenance costs are generally in line with other compact, all‑wheel-drive vehicles. Expect periodic oil changes, brake servicing, tire rotations, and inspections to constitute the bulk of annual upkeep.
- All‑wheel drive adds defensive value in bad weather but can marginally raise ongoing tire and brake costs due to the need for balanced wear and the shared drivetrain loads.
- CVT work—while not ubiquitous—can be a consideration for some owners. Regular fluid service as specified by Subaru helps maintain smooth operation and can reduce the likelihood of CVT‑related issues.
- Fuel economy remains competitive for an AWD compact in its class, with real‑world mileage typically in the upper‑20s to mid‑30s mpg range depending on driving habits and conditions.
In summary, ownership costs for the 2023 Impreza tend to be predictable and manageable for a compact AWD vehicle, especially for buyers who value all‑weather capability and a reasonable cost of ownership over the long term.
Safety, recalls, and reliability safeguards
Safety features and recall history influence perceived reliability, especially for shoppers prioritizing occupant protection and ongoing vehicle updates. The Impreza benefits from Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist technology in many trims and from widespread awareness of recall procedures when required.
- Standard and available safety tech, including EyeSight, contribute to high safety ratings and confidence in real-world use.
- Recall campaigns are handled through manufacturer service networks. Always check the VIN against NHTSA or Subaru recall databases to confirm open campaigns and their status before purchase.
- Overall, the Impreza’s safety and reliability profile align with expectations for a practical, budget-conscious compact with AWD.
For buyers, a pre-purchase inspection and a clean recall history can further reassure long‑term reliability, particularly when buying a used 2023 Impreza bond with higher mileage.
Summary
The 2023 Subaru Impreza offers a balanced reliability proposition for buyers who want standard all‑wheel drive, solid safety features, and practical daily usability. Independent ratings place it in the reliable-to-average tier for its class, and owner experiences generally reflect dependable performance with typical maintenance needs. The main reliability considerations are related to CVT refinement and infotainment quality, rather than widespread mechanical defects. If you value AWD practicality and sensible ownership costs, the 2023 Impreza remains a compelling option; as with any used car, verify maintenance history, address recalls promptly, and consider a pre‑purchase inspection to confirm it has been cared for properly.
How reliable is the new Subaru Impreza?
The 2025 Subaru Impreza has a predicted reliability score of 83 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.
How long will a 2023 Subaru Impreza last?
between 13 and 17 years
According to car experts, the 2023 Subaru Impreza can be expected to have a long lifespan, assuming that regular maintenance is kept up. Experts say that Subaru Imprezas are likely to have a lifespan between 13 and 17 years, or anywhere between 200,000 and 250,000 miles on average.
Is the 2023 Subaru Impreza a good car?
Among the 69 owners who provided feedback on the 2023 Subaru Impreza for Kelley Blue Book, consumer sentiment is mostly positive, with 80% recommending the vehicle. As a whole, consumers found the vehicle's reliability and styling to be its strongest features and performance to be its weakest.
What is the biggest issue with a Subaru Impreza?
Top Subaru Impreza Problems
- Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall.
- Improved Spark Plug Wires for Misfire Issues.
- Check Engine Light Due to Failed Knock Sensor.
- Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure.
- Subaru Impreza passenger seatbelt light and alarm issue persists with no passenger present, potentia...
