What is the downside of a Subaru Impreza?
The biggest drawbacks are modest acceleration from the 2.0-liter engine with a CVT, plus a cabin that feels less premium than some rivals and the extra weight and maintenance cost of all-wheel drive.
Beyond that, this article breaks down the downsides into performance, interior and practicality, reliability and ownership costs, and fuel economy, while noting that real-world experience varies by model year, trim, and how well the car has been maintained.
Performance and driving dynamics
Understanding how the Impreza copes with everyday driving helps buyers gauge whether it matches their needs for speed, smoothness, and handling in various conditions.
Powertrain and transmission
- Modest acceleration: The standard 2.0-liter flat-four paired with a CVT provides adequate daily drivability but can feel underpowered on highway merges and when passing, especially with a full load or on steep grades.
- CVT characteristics: The CVT can feel rubbery or slow to respond at low speeds and under heavy throttle; some drivers prefer a traditional automatic or a manual option where offered.
- Handling and ride: AWD helps with stability in rain or snow, but the Impreza isn’t a sportier compact; there is noticeable body roll in corners and less steering feedback than many rivals.
- Noise and refinement: Wind and road noise can be more noticeable at highway speeds, reducing overall quietness compared with some competitors.
In short, the Impreza prioritizes all-weather capability and practicality over sporty performance or high-end refinement.
Interior, comfort, and practicality
Inside the Impreza, practicality and visibility are strengths, but there are trade-offs in materials and tech that matter to some buyers.
Interior quality and tech
- Interior materials and design: The cabin focuses on function over luxury; several trims use durable plastics and a utilitarian design that some rivals surpass in atmosphere and feel.
- Infotainment and connectivity: Some model years and trims offer slower interfaces and uneven smartphone integration; newer generations improved with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but experiences vary by year.
- Cargo space and practicality: The hatchback layout yields useful cargo capacity for a compact, with straightforward rear-fold seating; it isn’t always class-leading against newer rivals.
- Comfort and rear space: Front seats are generally comfortable, while rear seating and headroom are adequate but not standout; ride quality can feel stiff on rough pavement.
Overall, the Impreza trades interior polish for practicality, reliability, and AWD capability, which fits many buyers but can feel ordinary next to newer or more upscale compact rivals.
Reliability, maintenance, and ownership costs
Ownership considerations matter for total cost of ownership and long-term reliability, particularly around the drivetrain and engine family used in the Impreza.
Maintenance and reliability considerations
- CVT maintenance and potential issues: The CVT is efficient and smooth in ideal conditions but can incur higher maintenance costs if problems arise, and some owners report wear concerns over time.
- All-wheel-drive system and components: AWD adds weight and extra drivetrain components, which can raise maintenance costs and potential wear on differentials or related parts, especially in harsher climates.
- Engine oil consumption and recalls: Some 2.0-liter engines require vigilance for oil levels and consumption; ensure a complete service history and check for any recalls or service bulletins related to the engine.
- Reliability perception and resale: Subaru’s AWD reputation helps resale value, but model-year reliability data and recall history vary; prospective buyers should review year-specific information before purchase.
With attentive maintenance and careful year-by-year selection, ownership costs can remain reasonable, but the CVT and AWD components can raise ongoing expenses relative to some front-drive compact rivals.
Fuel economy and emissions
Efficiency matters for daily commuting and long trips, and AWD plus the Impreza’s weight influence its numbers.
Efficiency caveats
- AWD and weight impact: The standard AWD system and the Impreza’s overall weight reduce fuel economy compared with front-drive compact rivals.
- Year/trim variation: Fuel economy ratings vary by year and transmission; newer models typically show improved numbers, but the range generally sits in the high-20s to low-30s mpg combined depending on setup.
- Real-world usage: Real-world mileage often trails EPA estimates, particularly with frequent city driving or cold-weather conditions that keep AWD actively engaged.
Practically, the Impreza offers reasonable efficiency for an AWD compact, but it won’t match the best front-drive rivals in the class.
Summary
The Subaru Impreza shines for all-weather practicality, safety, and usable hatchback space, making it a compelling choice for buyers who value traction and versatility. Its downsides include slower acceleration from the standard 2.0-liter engine with a CVT, a cabin that isn’t particularly upscale, and ownership costs tied to AWD and CVT maintenance. By evaluating model-year reliability, ensuring thorough maintenance history, and comparing to rivals with similar AWD capabilities, buyers can determine whether the Impreza’s strengths align with their priorities.
Bottom line: the Impreza is a solid, sensible compact for those who place AWD safety and practicality above sportiness and premium interiors.
