Is Subaru Impreza an AWD?
Yes. The Subaru Impreza currently ships with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive as standard.
This article explains what that means for ownership, how the drivetrain is applied across model years and markets, and what buyers should consider when shopping for an Impreza with AWD.
AWD as a defining feature
Subaru has built its brand around all-wheel drive, and the Impreza follows that philosophy. The Symmetrical AWD system distributes power to all four wheels to enhance traction in rain, snow, and slippery conditions, contributing to the car's confident handling styling in varied climates.
- Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive across current Impreza models in the United States and many markets.
- Drivetrain typically paired with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), though a manual transmission has been offered in past years and some markets.
- Symmetrical AWD uses a center differential to balance power delivery and maintain stability, rather than a rear-drive-only setup.
- Benefits include improved grip during acceleration and cornering; limitations can include slightly lower fuel economy and the need for proper tire maintenance for optimal AWD performance.
In practice, buyers should expect AWD to be part of the standard package, with trim-level features and safety tech that vary rather than the fundamental drivetrain itself.
Drivetrain details by model year and market
Here is a concise view of how AWD has been implemented across recent Impreza generations and markets. The core message is consistency: AWD is the norm rather than an optional upgrade on the Impreza.
- Current-generation Impreza (2020–present) in the United States: standard Symmetrical AWD; most trims paired with a CVT; a manual transmission has not been widely offered in recent years.
- Earlier generations and some markets: AWD was standard or offered as standard equipment, with CVT or manual transmissions available depending on the year and region.
- Foreign markets vary: some markets may offer front-wheel-drive variants, but AWD remains the default in markets that emphasize Subaru’s all-terrain capabilities.
Overall, the Impreza’s AWD configuration is designed to maximize stability and traction in adverse conditions, with the drivetrain remaining a constant feature across most trims and markets.
What to know if you're shopping for an Impreza with AWD
When shopping for an Impreza, consider how AWD interacts with other features such as safety suites, infotainment, and warranty coverage. The following points summarize practical considerations for buyers.
- AWD is standard on most current Impreza models; you are unlikely to find a true front-wheel-drive Impreza in the US lineup today.
- Transmission options have included CVT in modern models; a manual option existed in earlier years or in select markets.
- Look for Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assistance technologies as part of higher trims or standard in newer years; AWD complements these systems by keeping stability under braking and in turns.
- Expect slightly lower fuel economy compared with FWD equivalents, though AWD systems are designed for efficiency and predictable handling.
Before finalizing a purchase, verify the exact drivetrain and safety package on the trim and model year you’re considering, especially if buying a used Impreza where older configurations may have differed by market.
Summary
The Subaru Impreza is widely recognized as an all-wheel-drive vehicle, with Symmetrical AWD standard on most current models. This approach aligns with Subaru’s brand identity and provides improved traction in varied weather. Engine and transmission options have varied over the years, but AWD remains the defining feature—alongside safety tech—that helps explain the Impreza’s appeal to buyers seeking confident all-weather performance.
