Used 2002 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
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Love - Hate
I love my WRX. The performance that I get (coming from a 4cyl Toyota Pick-up) is amazing. It is truly fun to drive. But, the problems that I have encountered are making want to cut my losses. Trouble down-shifting and putting the vehicle into reverse, tape deck eating tapes, CD player freaking out and causing the stereo to crash much like a computer would, internal trunk latch not working, driver's seat rocking everytime I hit the brakes, and I could go on. I have heard many great things about Subaru's, but I got rid of my truck with 190000 miles because I didn't want to spend time with it in the shop. Funny, had the car in the shop more often in 6 mos than had the truck in 6 years.
WOW
What a fun car to drive, fast, nice handling, AWD, its got it all.
- Outback Sport WagonMSRP: $6,495316 mi away
- WRX WagonMSRP: $8,997355 mi away
- WRX WagonMSRP: $2,000711 mi away
My Rex!
I absolutely love this car. From the handling to the speed. I have put this car through alot of road testing, both on and off, and have been completely satisfied. One recent trips included Colorado where we drove it to the top of Pike's Peak. It performed like a dream. The turbo handled the high altitude like a charm. I have the 5 speed manual, and with that comes the initial lag at start off. But in a matter of miliseconds that turbo kicks in and you are gone!
A dream car made real
I've had this car for about 8 months now. For 7 months, I drove this baby 660 miles almost every weekend between MN and IL. I can say that as competent as this car is as a performance beast, it is also a collected highway cruiser. My gripes would be wind noise (noticeable above 70mph) and long-term comfort of the seats (on a drive from Chicago to Denver and back, the padding on the seat is noticeably flat and uncontoured). Besides that, it's an awesome car. So fast it's silly, yet spacious and utilitarian. It hauls ass and hauls goods - I fit 3 people, a drum set, and a saxophone in there. In short, I love this car!
Ummmm...
Ummm.....WOW. Just a complete blast to drive. Only wish is for more low end torque. It's a scream to flatten the accelerator at 3000 revs in the wet (let's pick 2nd gear for this). Tires scrabble for grip, tail gets a little happy if you're not pointed straight. All very controllable, all very fun. Get one!!
Impreza Outback Sport
A great alternative to the small SUV crowd. AWD and decent tires make it stick to the road under all weather conditions; this, along with the 165hp 2.5l engine (smoothest engine I've ever driven), make it great fun to drive! On a recent drive from WA to Denver, my OBS was the only car around able to maintain the speed limit over the high passes (11,000 feet) at night with it raining/snowing. Lots of interior cargo organization options. I got the OBS instead of TS or WRX wagons because I liked the 2-tone color scheme, and more standard cargo-related options.
Great Performance-Interior Sucks
The engine performance is outstanding, but you pay for this with a low quality interior. No moonroof option available, leather isn't available, the momo steering wheel is great, the carbon fiber nice, but the pedal set only comes for the manual. Only one trim color available. Gauge pack is extra. The keyless entry system is the worst. You can't open the trunk with it, and the security system isn't the greates either. I previously owned a 98 VW Jetta, and Subaru could take a few lessons on the "small" things that make a $25K car nice, you pay for those 227 horses by sacrificing style.
Great car!
I purchased this car in 2003 with 20,000 miles already on it. I beat this car HARD all the way through college and it's still kicking. I've done all my own maintenance... it's never been to the dealer. I've had to replace the brakes (pads & rotors) at 68k, accessory belts at 70k, and a set of tires at 60k. I redline the car every time I drive it...it's fun, reliable, and great in the snow!
worth every penny!
I've had so much fun with this vehicle- my previous car was an 2001 Integra Type-R. Although I did love my Type-R, the WRX has the same 'fun' factor and I can take my friends along. I have been driving it hard over the past year and I'm still giddy every time I go for a drive.
wrx
Best bang for the buck out there.
Sweet
Had it for two months, and it always cheers me up after work.
3rd Outback Sport
This is my 3rd consecutive Outback Sport. The 2002 is so much improved over my 1997 and 1999 models. It's added more power, CD, map lights, fog lamps, better speaker sound, v/s intermittent wipers front & rear, daytime running lights, alloy wheels, cruise control, and many other small but significant improvements. The automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. Fun to drive car!
A Really Fun Car
This is really 2 cars in one, economy and sport.When you want good milage drive just above 2000RPM and when you want a big grin on your face just wind it out.I have had the car for 9 months and still look for excuses to drive it. Its homely looks grow on you and it definitely gets attention.
Hell of a lot of fun
Not many people think "wow" when you just told them you bought a Subaru, but give them a ride, and they'll be grinning so hard, they can't say anything. The car itself carries almost no frills, and doesn't seem worth the price they ask, but one must also realize that the car is built from the front seat forward. Very small trunk, smallish back seating, great front seats, definitely built for the driver. A few squeaks here and there, but that's expected out of any car less than $30K. It really is great fun.
Most Bang For The Buck
This is one sweet automobile. Besides the incredible rush from stomping on the accelerator anywhere above 3,000 rpm and the tenacious grip of the glue- like tires, this car's ergonomics are first rate. Everything is very logically laid out and works just right. No space age climate controls or any such thing. Just a greatly functional interior that makes driving a pleasure. You really owe it to yourself to test drive this car if you're in the market. Where else can you get this incredible performance, including AWD and legendary Subaru reliability for slightly more than a loaded Accord? It's incredible!
This car is AWESOME!
Hands down, awesome car, even with two small children, plenty of room (between a Civic and an Accord in terms of rear, more like an Accord in everything else). Swallows up the pavement. Definitely get rid of the RE92 (stock tires). Awesome handling, awesome acceleration, awesome price!
Will buy another one!!!
I've driven this car in Michigan in all conditions and it won't quit. Had it packed to the ceiling with camping stuff, band equipment etc, it all fits! What a great car in the winter. I previously owned a Wrangler, and believe it or not, the Subaru is miles ahead in the winter. The only time I got stuck was when the plow covered it with 5 feet of snow. Mechanical problems: Replaced all brakes, a couple headlight bulbs, and wheel bearings in rear. This was a pain only because the shop did not know what the car was... do we order impreza or outback parts? I couldn't answer this for them. I believe the impreza parts worked, but not 100% on that. Overall great car, just wish I had a turbo!
Best in class and several classes above
This car is simply the greatest gift to driving ever. It is a perfect balance between daily driving functionality and gutwrenching high performance (and when the pedal meets the metal and the turbo fully spools you do feel your gut wrench). So much emphasis has been put on the performance (and rightfully so) that other aspects of the car have been shadowed out. The shape and layout of the dashboard is more remeniscent of a de-trimmed Porsche boxter than of a Japanese four door. The exterior is beautiful: aggressive yet not overstated; the way a true rally car is supposed to look.. with performance and handling to match.
Funky Head Lights, but who cares
Performance first and then looking
Best of the best!
This is a real car, not like those other non powerful engine, thank you for briging the WRX to the US.
Fast Fun and Practical
Very quick, handles great, fun to drive, yet practical enough that I can use it for work. This car does what you want it to, want to go fast and take some turns agressively? No problem, want to settle down and set the cruise (you won't)and listen to the killer sound system? Go ahead and you will be suprised at the ride and lack of road noise. It handles the daily commute grind as well as your favorite twisty road.
wow
This car is a rocket, a lot of fun to drive, very competant and safe feeling. Cornering is superb, lots of torque across a broad band, great brakes. The optional premium sound system is well worth the extra money. The seats are great, and both my 5'2" wife and my 6'3" self are plenty comfortable and can find a good seating position. The optional shifter ups the fun factor. No trips to the dealer, zero warranty issues. Our fear going into it was that the wagon would be too small to haul stuff with, but we have had no problems on trips to the store or longer trips with three adults. Between this car and my motorcycle, any other car I drive is boring.
A Lot Of Car For The Money!
Recently purchased my WRX from a friend who owned it since 25K. Car now has 91K. Previous owner only did regular service with no other issues. This is the type of vehicle that you have to know what you are buying. It doesn't do anything spectacular but does do everything well. Power is adequate, interior is decent, looks are unique, MPG is good for a performance-based car, parts/service is reasonable, and resale is pretty good if you purchase used. I bought this car mainly for MPG as my other vehicle is an F150. And for $7000 I do not think I could get more car for the money. The car had already been upgraded to 17" wheels so it looks even better. Otherwise the car is completely stock.
tad's subie
This car is the most fun I've evr had on wheels.
MY02 WRX by WAM
After having my baby for a year, this car is a supurb deal. Its the money wise's Audi S4. Although I would like more luxury options especially a sunroof. Although a little tight for space but it's my toy and I love it. I really can't complain, I spent a lot less than an S4 and enjoy driving it especially when I can keep up with them and still have money left in my pocket :) Not to pick on the S4, that was my other vehicle of choice but just did not want to worry about high monthly payments.
Oh My- What Fun
Have had the car for 2 months. Can't get over the way the car performs. I came from a 92 GTI and thsi car rocks. Can't get over the rush of accelerations each time the tach hits 3K. Have to keep the turbo spooled to get the most out of the engine, but nothing beats crusiing along with the engine growkling along at the sweet spot. Oh and the AWD system is awesome. The car is amazing at spirited turns. Best bang for the buck. But if you are going to complain about the way the car looks or kack of leather and sunroof- This car is not for you.. You are just missing the point on what this car is about.
Best car under $25K....period!
Excellent little car. Awesome performance, decent gas mileage, very comfortable. I took the car on a 1300 mile road trip from Houston, TX to central Minnesota, had to stop only for gas. The front seats are awesome! 6- disc in-dash CD changer came in very handy on the trip. This car is also awesome in the snow. I was hoping for a little better gas mileage than 24 mpg I saw on the trip, but I had the cruise set at 80+ mph the whole way. AWESOME CAR!
One good car
I've had this car for over a month now and it has already been better than I expected. AWD is great as well as handling and performance.
Fast and Furious
This car is for people who know what driving is all about. This is one of the fastest cars in country and with the AWD it makes it even better. The car looks great, and when you hook it up with all kinds of accessories it looks even greater. Of course this isnt a car for people who drive wimpy automatic "sports" cars. If you have around thirty grand, and love fast and good looking cars, the WRX is for you.
Excellent All-round vehicle
Wonderful vehicle which drives like a Civic when needed and drives like a Ferocious Kamikaze when asked to. Split personality ! The Auto-WRX, whose VTD-AWD system is equipped with a torque-sensing Planetary gear and electro-mechanical Hydraulic clutches for rapidly transferring torque front/rear rear/front, and drives with 55% of the power to the rear-wheels in non-slip conditions, is a pure fun car. No other Subaru (Auto or manual) has this exclusive VTD-AWD system.
It's not just for kids!
Having owned Imprezas since 1996, I was expecting a faster, but no more refined, car in the WRX. Surprise! The WRX is much smoother and quieter than its less sporty predecessors. At first the controls felt too light, and the seat felt too hard, but after a long drive I feel quite fresh. The turbo lag is not very noticeable except at high altitude with the AC running. Then you need to coordinate clutch and throttle with finesse. Reports of lousy mileage are due to test drive behavior; I'm averaging 23- 26, and I drive fast but efficiently. Coolest experience? Going up to Donner Pass (7,200 feet) at half throttle in fifth gear at 70-80mph.
Where have you been?
I have waited for a sport/rally auto that had power and a firm suspension for an eternity. I finally got one that I can afford. What more could one hope for than this incredible performing auto? Yes, but will this fabulous little auto hold up?
best car for price
somewhat loud, but gives the sound that you are moving, amazingly smooth at high speeds, great four wheel drive for great turns, clutch a little hard to get used too, great stock turbo for maximum performance, not very much noticible turbolag
Love my WRX!
Gas mileage is excellent given that it's a turbocharged 4 - ride quality is first rate - handles well when you push it, but is comfortable as a daily driver. And you just can't beat AWD in the rain/mud/snow!
the bess car ever
great handling and great speed a real rally car to be recognized
Nice Car
This is the best car on the market. The acceralation in this vehicle is insane. The desgin on the interior and exterior is real nice. There is still room for personalizing. The only thing that would make this car any more awesome than it is is more torque and horsepower.
Ok but not very refined
Timing belt tensior went out at 10500 miles. Intermittent clutch shudder that has worsened with increasing milage. Difficulty with getting dealers to do warranty work. Or admitting the car has a problem
Exciting Commute
This car is great. You cannot beat it with the price. Always wanted a sporty car that is not hard on the city bumps. Found it with this car. The looks is perfect coz it downplays the car yet fun to drive. And also its fun to drive or did I mention that already. Can leave 98% of cars on the road.
I love my WRX
I love my WRX! It's fun to drive, easy to handle, and very reliable. As a mom, I needed a 4-door, but I was not going to sell a Porsche for a Camry. The suspension is stiff, the turning is tight.
GREAT
This is an overall great car. I love to drive it!
Rally Inspired Sports Wagon
Unbelieveable mix of power and comfort. The ultimate sports car under $25,000 with 0-60 in just under 6 seconds. Fast, fun and with the wagon makes it very practical.
Can't Beat It
One word FAST!!!!! Thats all that explains it. Smoothest car, try going 110mph, turn the radio off and listen. What do u hear? In this car pretty much nothing but the sound of the turbo, like an airplane. Watch out Cobras ur in danger........
The best value under $25,000.
I drive this car 4 hours a day to the office. I have had nothing but fun times since I dumped my Pathfinder for this rocket. I highly suggest this car to anyone that enjoys blowing off the doors of Mustangs and Porsche Boxters S.
WOW!
I can't describe driving this car, and you can't even read the most detailed test drive review to know. Just get one. You won't be sorry. And, if you don't subscribe to the cookie-cutter school of design, you just might like the styling too. I can't stop looking at mine!
WOW!!
This car does it all!! Used it to get to the trailhead of a fourteener and somehow it made it all the way up. At times there were some Wranglers struggling to make it. Once, at the top people were coming over to check out the car (sports car) that made it to the top. Truely unbelievable!
Fun to drive little bastard!
This is about my 5 speed turbo, 2002 WRX. This car is in a class of it's own, for $25k you're getting an outstanding performance, quality, and AWD, whick is very cool! I low when the engine revs above 4,000, and turbo kick in. This car is not without its drawbacks though: fuel economy (what economy?), close to 10 mpg city cycle, and this is pushing it half-assed, level of road noise- maybe one has to invest in better tyres, also ABS is not tunned to the sports car, it starts too early, but one can disable it by removing a fuse (I don't recommend this!). Great car again, my next one is going to be Lancer Evolution.
Love the Subaru WRX
I bought this car few month ago with 89000 miles on it at the small dealer in Norco and drove it home with happiness. The car still run great and powerful that surprise me and i don't have any problem with it at all until now. I love Subaru and love how they build the car that can last forever.
The almighty WRX...
Here it is: If you want to be driving the fastest, safest, best handling stock car on the road, then get a WRX! I love mine! It's constantly surprising me how powerful it is. It's also incredibly good in snow! I can't really get it to "play" in the snow, though, because the AWD and ABS is always correcting any slides. It is also a great "sleeper" car. That is, not everyone knows they are fast until you've left them far behind you! ;) I would highly recommend one. However, they are only going to get cooler looking in 2004-5 so if you're thinking about waiting, check out Subaru Global's site under the Topics section to see the future WRX beast!! :) Cya!
GOOD CAR!
I Love the way it hugs the corners! I live in the mountains so this is a wonderful car for me.
Great Car.
I love this car, it feels a little sluggish with the automatic transmission at low speed, though it still accelerates fast? I don't know, it could just rev a little faster for my taste. This can be offset by being a little heavy-footed at lower speed. But once the car is moving and the turbo kicks in its just amazing. Love the design, it makes me smile to drive it.