Is the Subaru Impreza 2006 a good car?
The 2006 Subaru Impreza can be a solid used-car choice if you locate a well-maintained example, thanks to standard all-wheel drive, practical hatchback space, and relatively affordable parts. Like any aging vehicle, its overall value hinges on maintenance history and how well it’s been cared for over the years.
In this article, we examine what makes the 2006 Impreza appealing, what to look for when buying one today, and how it stacks up against other compact wagons on the used market. We’ll cover the main trims (2.5i, RS, WRX), typical aging issues, maintenance costs, and tips to help you decide if this model fits your needs and budget.
Model variants and what they mean for ownership
Subaru offered several trims in 2006, each with distinct maintenance implications and driving characteristics. Understanding these differences helps predict reliability and ownership costs.
Before listing the main differences, note that the naturally aspirated 2.5i/2.5RS and the turbocharged WRX each appeal to different drivers, with the WRX generally requiring more routine upkeep and premium fuel.
- 2.5i: The common, non-turbo option with a 2.5-liter flat-four; straightforward maintenance and decent fuel economy for an AWD compact wagon.
- 2.5 RS: Sportier trim with a tuned suspension and higher-revving 2.5L engine; typically fun to drive but can show wear sooner on the suspension and drive components due to its performance focus.
- WRX: Turbocharged variant with significantly more power and higher maintenance costs, including higher fuel usage and more frequent component wear under spirited use.
- All trims share Subaru’s standard AWD, which improves traction but adds some ongoing maintenance considerations (axle seals, CV joints).
- Transmission options varied by market and trim, with manual gearboxes being common and generally robust, while automatics can be less predictable with age.
Understanding these differences helps buyers prioritize remaining maintenance needs, insurance costs, and potential performance expectations in a used 2006 Impreza.
Pros and cons of buying a 2006 Impreza today
Before weighing whether to buy, consider the core strengths and typical drawbacks of an older Impreza model so you can assess fit with your needs and budget.
- Pros: Standard all-wheel drive provides strong year-round traction, especially in snow or rain; versatile hatchback design offers practical cargo space; generally affordable parts and straightforward mechanicals make maintenance approachable; a large aftermarket and community support makes troubleshooting easier.
- Pros: Comfortable seat ergonomics and good interior space for a compact wagon, with usable rear seating and cargo flexibility for family gear or weekend adventures.
- Cons: Potential head-gasket and oil-leak issues on 2.5-liter engines as mileage climbs; suspension components (struts, bushings) wear with age and can affect ride and handling; rust can develop in certain climates on older frames; fuel economy is less competitive with newer compact wagons; powertrains on turbo WRX models require more careful maintenance and higher ownership costs.
- Cons: Some interior plastics show their age, and cabin noise can be higher than newer vehicles; automatic transmissions from older Subarus may show wear or shift concerns if not maintained; overall reliability varies with maintenance history.
Overall, the 2006 Impreza offers a compelling package for buyers who value AWD and practicality, provided they buy a well-documented example and are prepared for aging components.
Maintenance, inspections, and price considerations
Approach this purchase with a thorough inspection plan and realistic budgeting for typical wear items common to aging Subarus.
- Obtain a comprehensive pre-purchase inspection from a technician familiar with Subaru platforms, focusing on the head gasket condition, coolant/oil leaks, compression on the 2.5 engine, and signs of rust or severe corrosion.
- Review service history for timing belt replacement (if applicable to the exact engine), head gasket service, transmission fluid changes, brake service, and suspension work. Older Subarus benefit from known-maintenance records.
- Inspect for signs of head-gasket-related issues such as milky oil, white smoke from the exhaust, or overheating symptoms, and verify cooling system integrity.
- Test-drive to assess transmission behavior, steering response, brake feel, and any unusual engine or suspension noises, especially at typical highway speeds and during cornering.
A well-documented 2006 Impreza with recent maintenance is more likely to deliver reliable ownership, especially if it’s the 2.5i or RS trim and has avoided high-stress turbo use.
How it stacks up against newer compact wagons
Compared with newer compact wagons, the 2006 Impreza may lag in modern technology, fuel efficiency, and ride refinement, but it often wins on drivetrain confidence and all-weather capability thanks to AWD. For buyers prioritizing four-season practicality on a budget, a well-kept 2006 Impreza can still be a reasonable option, provided depreciation has kept purchase price low and maintenance costs manageable.
Summary
Bottom line: The 2006 Subaru Impreza can be a good used-car choice if you target a well-maintained example, preferably the 2.5i or RS trim, with a detailed inspection and a clear maintenance history. Its standard AWD, hatchback practicality, and active community support are strong positives, but aging components—especially on the 2.5-liter engines—mean potential head-gasket, suspension, and rust concerns must be factored into the purchase decision and ongoing ownership costs.
