Used 1999 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
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'99 Outback Sport
erod45, 09/11/2005
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
11 of 12 people found this review helpful
I have had this car since it was brand new and I must say that it was a no- nonsense vehicle. There were some quibbles about the wheel bearings giving out quickly, but there is a TSB for fixing it, which to this day after 37,000 miles haven't needed to be replaced again. The clutch is a weak link in the drivetrain, so when it goes out, I HIGHLY suggest getting an aftermarket one. Other than that, the engine itself has been a jewel with only simple maintenance needed (i.e., oil change, coolant change, etc.) The car is a blast to drive, especially in the rain. Overall, a very good car with above average reliability that'll get you to where you want to go and have fun while driving it.
Great car for the price
firstshadow, 06/16/2008
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I picked mine up used with 60k miles on the clock, haven't had any problems with it. It's been so much fun to drive, especially on road trips. Twisties are always fun to go through on highways in the rain, passing everyone left and right with the AWD.
1999 Subaru Impreza for sale near you
Showing 3 of 6 listings
- L WagonMSRP: $3,400636 mi away
- Outback Sport WagonMSRP: $7,9991,649 mi away
- RS CoupeMSRP: $59,9951,957 mi away
See all 6 listings
Loud Ride!
1TheMacs, 02/21/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Overall good car. A very loud ride on rough or wet road. Struts make a hallow rattle but do not need to be replaced.
165K And Still Going Strong!
rreihart, 06/06/2008
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle from my parents with 111k on it and I have loved owning it. It's been my favorite car to own. Where I live, I need an AWD car in the Winter and this Subaru gets me anywhere! I think it currently needs a rear wheel bearing. Other than that, I replaced the catalytic converter and a front brake caliper. Not bad. Switched it to Mobil 1 synthetic oil and get great gas mileage, 24-26 MPG.
MY CAR
JOHN LINEHAN, 01/01/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I BOUGHT THE SUABARU IMPREZA BECAUSE IT IS BOTH STYLISH AND ECONOMICAL BUT FAST TOO GOOD CAR AND IT STARTS EVERY TIME I TURN THE KEY
Reliability is the key
Pinkus, 04/17/2005
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I bought my Outback Sport with 70k miles. I'm at about 125k now, and besides routine maintenance, the car has not cost me anything. This is exactly why I bought the car. I know that Subaru has addressed in the new OS/WRX all of the issues I had with this one (hp, wheels, etc.). That being said, I realize this car is a '99, and for what it is, I'm totally satisfied. If you don't abuse the car, you won't have any problems. Mileage is decent (mid- 20s). Interior room? I'm a drummer, and I fit my entire kit, plus a passenger! AWD? Put a set of snow tires on in the winter, and the car is unstoppable! Finally, get a set of WRX style wheels for the car, and improve the looks 100%.
I. love. this. car.
LP, 01/15/2008
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my first car. I love it so much. Super reliable, never hesitates to start, even with 170K on the odometer. Turns heads, and I get complimented on it almost daily. AWD is fantastic, the RS is constantly sure-footed; it drives like it's on rails, and, being naturally aspirated and with airbags, it's parent friendly too. But rest assured kids, it's a blast to drive. More low-end torque than you'd expect. Inside it has buckets of room, I'm 6'5" and I fit without a problem. The rear seats can be inhabited by normal people, too! Classic styling in and out, my only woe is the weaksauce cupholder.
Great Little Car
Jim, 01/18/2008
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This vehicle has been very reliable. There have been no major problems. It still has the original muffler and battery. It burns no oil and is great on gas. However, it is a bit under powered.
Simply a reliable, fun to drive car
Proud_Scuby_Owner, 03/03/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've owned my car for 4 years now and it has been such a great car! Handles beautifully, fast, relaiable, great gas mileage and...... oh yeah, FUN!!!
rallybluesreview
rallyblues, 02/03/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great handling with decent power. Not as reliable as honda, but never quitted on me so that's good. Only had to change clutch, ABS speed sensor, and leaky radiator none of these had me call the tow truck. Love the styling of the car and it's a blast to drive.
Extsreme
exstreme, 04/14/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
As soon as I saw this car I knew I had to have it, it was a me car! Thought I bought it not knowing how to drive a standard I learned and now I zoom around town and it I still get rubberknecks.
Best all-around performer in its class
drjeff, 05/01/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
On dry roads, this car is fun, safe, and forgiving. On wet or snowy roads, it is stable, predictable and almost unstoppable. In the hands of a good driver, the Subaru all wheel drive system will out-perform an SUV for far less money than an Audi or the like.
wOw
pooooop, 09/19/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
had this car for about 5 months and am still hooked to it.. 1st AWD car and WOW FWD SUX.. i love it cuz everyone else has a civic or a corolla and such.. this cartruly blows all those away.. very quick for a H4... its the most enjoyable subcompact out there.. simply put it 5 speed fun.. its reliable thats y i bought it at 122,000 miles (WITH A PREVIOUSLY ABUSIVE OWNER) the fuel pump went out and the indicators did also due to the previous owner messin with wires etc.. no problems since and plan on havin it for many years to come
Fun, Reliable Ride
Heather, 03/15/2005
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my little red subaru. I live in a ski town in Colorado, and it has been the perfect car. It has enough pep to cruise up the large mountain passes, and the AWD is great. Throw the skis on top, the dog in the back and go! The back is large enough to pack all my playthings, without being overly large. I have never had a problem mechanically with my car. The only downfall is the snow getting packed into the wheel wells. Other than that I love my little "pepper".
110,000 Miles and no problems
John, 08/24/2005
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this car new in 1999. I've had the car for 6 years now and have put 110,000 miles on it with few problems. I've had to replace the battery and a few light bulbs - that's it outside of standard service. This was my first all AWD car and I'll probably never go back to either a FWD or RWD car. It's so much better in the weather. I'm planning on driving it for another 3-4 years and then maybe trading up to a new Legacy GT.
The Beauty of AWD
chris shiple, 03/21/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This package of performance, safety, reliability, and cost can not be topped. The car is extremely fun to drive with good torque and HP numbers as well as close ratio gearing. The AWD provides excellent grip for summer fun and winter safety. I have not had one single problem with the vehicle, and I am at 37,500 enthusiastic miles.
Great Car!
Zoom Zoom Zoom, 03/27/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had mine for 4 years now, has 57,400 miles on it, not a single mechanical problem with the vehicle. It is a hoot to drive, very zippy. I pull a snowmobile/trailer with it very easily. I think this design looks much better than the WRX.
So many problems
JasonDissapointed, 06/03/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I've had this car for about 8 months. So far - new front axle, valve covers/gaskets, head gasket, ball joints, ignition wires, spark plugs. I still have problems with the A/T temp light coming on and no dealer can figure it out. The clock in the dash works only sometimes. I REALLY want to like this car, it's fun to drive when it runs correctly but unfortunetly thats not very often. I love the looks!
Lovely Car
scottswrx, 05/04/2012
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I drive a 99 Wrx Impreza, been a car enthusiast since the age of 14 and have owned many cars and this would be one of the best. Love it...Love it....Love it!! What more can I say, i'm now wanting an STI Coupe.
1999 RS Coupe original owner.
Chris, 06/06/2022
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Bought new, sight unseen. Didn't know Subaru made a mock Rally car for the US market. Have been huge fan ever since. Now has over 276,000 miles on it, and is often over 100 mph. I have done some engine head/camshaft work.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Built to last 1999 Subaru Impreza L 2.2
angelo16, 03/09/2012
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
2 of 5 people found this review helpful
I live in the province of Alberta in Canada and we get A LOT of snow. I purchased with 144,000 KM ( now has 151,000km.) From the months of dec to March the snow can get to as much as 1.5-2 feet in one fall. That being said the AWD is amazing. I have so much fun driving this in the winter. When winter falls here people hate driving cause a lot of our vehicles are FWD or RWD. I sometimes make and excuse to drive somewhere just so I can rip around and take corners with the amazing AWD. The only problem I have had is the bolt holding the alternator busted so i was running on battery for a while and no power steering. Easy enough I just purchased a stainless steel one and it was fixed
You never know until you drive one.
Ellery, 07/16/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have had the car since it was new and am still loving it since the day I got it. It is a fun little car to drive and it is true when they say that once your drive an AWD car, you'll never go back to 2WD. The engine is very torquey for a 4 cylinder and I love tossing it in a corner. I have driven it on the beaten path a few times and it has never let me down. Actually, the car looks better when it is dirty rather than clean! After 4 years of ownership, the only trouble areas have been the rear bearings (surprise,surprise!!) and my throw out bearing on my clutch giving out during a flood 2 years ago.
A great Vermont car
DLandL, 04/19/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car is great in the snow/dirt roads and mud season of Vermont life. Idiot proof AWD, and put 4 good snow tires on it and you are practically unstoppable in winter. Transmission could kick down better, though, and the A/C is not that powerful. Sounds a little cheap too, when you close the doors with the windows down - guess that's a consequence of the frameless doors.
Outback Sport 99
korver, 04/26/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
A fun car for a college student. Drives well in poor weather and good for country driving.
Fun jack-of-all-trades car
Chris in Denver, 05/10/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a great car. It is fun to drive in all types of weather conditions. Has a little sport to it, is practical and very useful. Has decent power (I like the raspy sound of the boxer engine), good suspension (nice and firm), a modest amount of comfort from a compact.
Fun little Toy
Ranger Russ, 06/14/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This little car turns me into a 10 year old kid again, just having fun! It's not an offroading car, but it'll get you down any ROAD you try to drive down, including dirt & mud. I have yet to get mine stuck, except when I bottomed out in deep snow while crossing over the top of a steep hill. And it took 15 seconds to get unstuck. Rain, snow, mud, creeks, etc.. this thing can't be stopped. The older you get, the better your toys get...
Pretty decent and fun car
Jonny, 02/11/2008
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Overall, I like this car. I use it in snow, sand, dirt, and even low-clearance jeep trails. This has lead to blowing a couple CV boots though, which is problematic. Great traction in snow and great room for snowboards and skis and other gear inside. The hubcaps fall off easily (I lost three in about 1.5 years). I have had to put a fair amount into the repairs starting at about 75k miles, including new clutch and I think the catalytic converter is crapping out just after the 80,000 mi warranty (I have 89,000 mi on mine).
fun
aaron, 03/27/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a wonderful car for around town as well as extended trips. The gas mileage is terrific and it has very good storge for a compact because of the foldable back seats. There is not much people room but that was never a problem for me (5'9") . I think the looks are great although I have a thing for wagons. Many accessories are availible and the factory roof rack is very funcinal, tested often with kayaks, unlike other vehicles. The AWD works wonderful in the snow and ice and will get you where you need to be. overall a very good car for the price. the only short comming I've seen is the brakes which are noisy but seem to work fine.
Fun Car
Seattle sub, 01/13/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car. I'm 5'2" and it's perfect. Great visibility all around. I feel safe in all conditions. Sticks to the road like glue. I've had this car from new, and I love it
not up to par in the long run
markiz, 02/11/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
When it was new I got a kick out of it - fun little car. But now, at 70K miles, things that should not break are starting to go. Both rear wheel bearings had to be replaced, this for a car that has never been off-road!! The regulator in one electric window went belly-up, rear wiper arm broke for no reason. Conclusion: a good 3-4 year car if you keep the miles dow.
Always Subaru
Imp Fan, 02/22/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza L 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have had my Impreza for 4 years now and it is safe for me to say that I will continue driving Subarus for a long time. I have not had 1 problem with the car. The only work I have had done is normal maintenance. It is a blast to drive, especially in tight, winding back roads. The AWD is superb.
Subaru Impreza
Chaz Gruver, 08/20/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza L 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This vehicle handles exceptionally well, hugs the curves really well, accelerates quickly for a 2.2 liter, shifts adequately.
Subarules!
Lyn, 08/27/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Great car, with good resale value. Runs and handles great. Looks good. Overall, no regrets.
Great car
mrdugas, 01/14/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my 99 outback sport. I wouldn't want any other car besides a newer one. It is very versitile and the engine is great. The only problem I have is the cruise control doesn't work.
99 l
fullmonte77, 02/04/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza L 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
this car is a blast to drive goes great in the snow.has plenty of power trans shifts smooth great car.
1999 impreza l wagon dbctmc
dbctmc, 03/08/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
great car for those who drive fairly long distances in mountainous or snow belt areas. very reliable. dont expect any more than 30 mpg. rear seat has very little leg room even with average size person in front seat. pretty good cargo room, esp. with rear seat folded.
it all starts to fall apart at once
jmc1978, 06/01/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
53000 miles and a new engine block? they made the pistons too small for the cylinders? WTF? the frameless doors rattle and eventually do fall apart inside, nothing to support the glass. heater fan squeals/ chirps/doesn't work.
Best car I ever owned!!
heimlik99, 10/09/2004
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This was my first new car purchase and I wish I NEVER traded it in! It was so perfect. I live in the Pocono Mountains in Northeast PA and in our harsh winters and mountainous terrain I NEVER had any troubles and I was running V rated DIRECTIONAL PERFORMANCE TIRES! Unreal! I never had to shovel it out after the plows went by, oil changes were so easy (no jacking required) but the AWD did wear tires out faster than rear or front drive.
Subaru - '99 Impreza
Subara Impreza - 4D, 10/02/2005
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Sedan AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Solid, comfortable car in town or on highway. After some tuneup I'm pleased to get 25-28 city and highway mpg. I can hardly believe it. Had some original trouble with acceleration issues but discovered that I had a faulty mass air volume control unit. After inexpensive replacement I love it. It's no hot rod but basically easy and fun to drive. Only disappointment is the location of the single cup holder as it right above the radio and located in such a way as it obscures the heating and air conditioning controls. The second holder is between the seats which is a little weird. Basically car is an "8" though.
Reliable and practical
SuburuGal, 02/20/2007
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
In 8 years of ownership no mechanical problems. Not a flashy car, but reliable and practical. Good deal for the money.
Great Little Compact Sports Car
adidas2284, 09/12/2011
1999 Subaru Impreza RS 2dr Coupe AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned my Subie for the past 4 years. I bought it knowing it had a rebuilt title and had the passenger front redone, to include rewelding some of the fenderwell. I bought it w/ 92k mi and now have 133k mi on it. Its never let me down. The factory clutch had some minor defects and doesn't have a good clamping force, but I replaced that for a performance one. Its a fun ride and I love taking the long way home from work. I baby it about 80% of the time and drive it hard the rest and not once had an issue w/ the car. It has developed a small oil leak (1/2 qt between oil changes) but its not enough to matter. The only real downside is the decent MPG's and cheap looking interior.
Dad's Old Winter Car
NY Kid, 06/10/2007
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My Impreza used to be my dad's old winter car, but when we moved to AZ it was given to me since my old car died. It's such a fun little car to throw around back roads, with decent power and great handling. This car's powertrain has been reliable, and has been driven cross country with no issues. The frameless windows are a pain. Three of my windows do not roll down because they are off track and the power window motors are busted. Also, the rear hatch squeaks and rattles, but nothing I can't live with. Even with these little problems, I love my car and plan on holding onto it until it dies, which should be a while, since our previous Subarus have made it over 200k and I only have 76k after 8 years.
Good Car but could be better
pun14, 06/05/2003
1999 Subaru Impreza Outback Sport 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a good car. Aging makes it a good initial value. Decent looking car. Performance is very good. AWD is a wonderful feature. Handles nimbly, great in the sand and on dirt roads when pushed. Cabin design is simple, functional, not foofy. Not spacious. Get the bigger wagon if you have a family. However Fitting 4 can be tough for the 2 people in the back. Spritey, not fast. Versatile, not oversized. Good blend of low level performance, utility, and fuel economy, value. There are more cars that do more and have more, but you'll have to spend a lot more!
fun
Aaron, 03/27/2002
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a wonderful car for around town as well as extended trips. The gas mileage is terrific and it has very good storge for a compact because of the foldable back seats. There is not much people room but that was never a problem for me (5'9") . I think the looks are great although I have a thing for wagons. Many accessories are availible and the factory roof rack is very funcinal, tested often with kayaks, unlike other vehicles. The AWD works wonderful in the snow and ice and will get you where you need to be. overall a very good car for the price. the only short comming I've seen is the brakes which are noisy but seem to work fine.
Scubie Does!
Simi Valley Shaggy, 12/09/2024
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I am picky with cars, but this is one of the few cars I can live with when I can't afford a Miata. It handles great, and is very comfortable, and reliable, while managing to have personality. PO took okay care of it and I just had to fix a few minor things, brakes, etc. It's hard to describe, but the best thing about driving the Impreza (Wagon) is that it feels like a mini-SUV. There's nothing else like it on the road. Too bad it doesn't snow here.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Run Away - Not Recommended
R, 04/14/2009
1999 Subaru Impreza L 4dr Wagon AWD
0 of 2 people found this review helpful
Avoid all Imprezas and buy a Legacy if you are going to buy a Subaru - the build quality is substantially better. I have had this car for 5 years and babied it, yet it still continues to fall apart. The rear wheel bearings have been replaced 3 times, the power window regulator died, the steering column coupler fell apart, the struts and alternator died at 70K, the engine was replaced at 100K after a bad rod knock developed (after fixing a head gasket leak), the CV joints have torn repeatedly, etc. What a lemon! This car only has 100K on it, but is constantly breaking down. The AWD system and overall pep of the engine are great, but avoid Imprezas due to their poor build quality.