Used 2003 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
See Edmunds pricing data
Has Your Car's Value Changed?
Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.
Having Fun!!!!
This car is fun to drive. I find myself making excuses to drive it. I have done extensive modifications to it to improve horsepower and performance and i still get 25 mpg on the highway. I have never had to have anything fixed.
PERFECT
Best car ever for the price. Handles like god, accelerates great, just perfect. the interior is great with the 6 cd changer. get this car
- WRX WagonMSRP: $8,995122 mi away
- Outback Sport WagonMSRP: $8,997837 mi away
- WRX SedanMSRP: $19,995839 mi away
fun 2 drive
This is my first new car and I love it! I have had three cars before this one and none comes close to this. Every where I go I get comments on how nice my car is. Not to mention it is quick off the line and really fun to drive. I love the look on peoples faces when they see me fly past! My only complaint is that the back seet is too small.
Fun to drive and good sporty design....
I had never thought about getting a WRX, but after test driving my friend's I couldn't resist. I didn't know I would love this car so much until I own it. This car has got a decent amount of horsepowers, great performance, sporty interior and exterior design, 6 CD changer and it comes with so many other standard manufacture options that so many new cars out there call optional.
Base WRX is just a starting point...
You cant beat the bang for the buck. I have done more mods than I care to mention but the performance of the car is amazing. I now have a little wagon that will easily run with or beat a turbo Porsche at a fifth the price. I can take 4 other people along with me for the ride in reasonable comfort. Then I can stuff the hatch area full of stuff and take a trip. This car is the ultimate all-weather interceptor. Very few cars can offer this level of performance, reliability and fun! Every day its basic goodness shines through as soon as you fire it off. Downsides to the car: mileage, interior materials and terrible tires. Buy one!
Little Red Wagon of Fun
I did some pulls to seat the rings when I first got the car and now I'm babing the engine until the recommended 1000. Seating the rings was a teaser of the potential of this peppy little wagon. The misses jumped on me because I surpassed the 4k max rpm for breakend when I had to pull out in heavy traffic Even at 3/4 throttle the car and rpm's jump when you reach 3k rpm. Unfortunatly I see that you really need to either slip the clutch or drop the clutch if you really want a fast takeoff. But in turn it's a nice little car to putt around at gas saving speeds. There is enough power at low rpm's for everyday around town driving.
Proud To Be A WRXer
My boys talked me into this car. I changed jobs and actually had a company BMW 741 IL - a fast but heavy lux car. When I had a very limited budget and a lot of weather to content with, I needed a high performance AWD car. Man has it been great! The car performs like a race car - very quick once the the turbo kicks @ 3000rpm, the tires are sticky around any curves, and the brakes put you in FULL control... I love this car so much, I will be moving up to the STi (as soon as my wife let's me...) If you have a chance, buy this car. You will not regret it - unless you try to fit 3 boys, wife and dog in it. Won't work! Enjoy
2003 WRX Wagon
This car is the best overall vehicle for most people. Forget about gas guzzling SUV's, this all wheel drive WRX kicks their a$$ in every way. One mont all and NO regrets...
What a wagon
bar none, best bang for the buck going. Test drive and buy. Thats what I did. You will love this car. Turbo lag is an issue but with practice it is somewhat eliminated. Fun to out -accelerate 90% of the cars on the road. People unfamiliar with a wrx wagon have no idea what they are up against. Turbo plus awd is a winning combination when out performing other sport cars. I have over 50,000 miles on this car and every morning it is a pleasure to get in it and drive. I have never felt this way about any car. Buy one and you will know what I mean.
WRX like a charm
Purchased this car 10/30/01 and I'm approaching 14K miles. Impressive 0-60 power; it will smoke stock Mustang GT's off the line. Huge public appeal; I even got a thumbs-up from a Harley- Davidson biker (complete with 2 ft. beard). Fun to drive on all-surfaces. Complaints: The shifter and the interior plastic (a few rattles have emerged) could be a little tighter. I have the stock premium sound system including the under-the-seat sub and it longs for more power. Also the volume selector is coarse, there are huge differences between some increments. Overall, only minor gripes - I would recommend this car over and over again!
A Wolf in Sheep's Clothing on the Cheap
The 0-60 starts from the tollbooth gate are something to behold at 5.4 seconds. All this in a reliable economy compact wagon under $25,000 that gets over 20mpg on average. Handling with 4wd is razor sharp. Driven normally, it is a very comfortable well-behaved car. Driven hard it is amazing! It is, however, one of the ugliest cars on the road. It takes practice to eliminate turbo lag. Wagon space compared to the Subaru Legacy is tiny. You'll need to fold the back seats down for real hauling space.
subaru outback impreza 2002
Nice car - got it used. Pluses - well-made, fun, good stereo, nice looks. Minuses - fuel milage, seats not comfortable, not cheap.
Lifesaver
We bought the 2003 WRX with the insurance check from our 2002 WRX, which was totalled just 3 weeks after purchase. The four 19 and 20 year passengers (two of whom had no seatbelts fastened) all walked away from the crash with minor cuts and bruises. The driver drifted off the side of the highway at 80+ mph at a dangerous curve where the shoulder dropped off and the car turned over several times.
Wonderful
This is my first stick car and it's been an awesome experience. :O) You'll get a lot of looks if you're a girl driving one too! >:O)
This car is awsome.
I used to have a 350HP AWD Talon but this thing is great. It has loads of bottom end. It's o.k in the snow however I belive that the tires is what hurts it most in snow traction.However the AWD makes up for it. Very good interior build quality. Feels sound and sturdy, yet the seats are great for long distance travel. I have driven my car from MN to Chicago, IL many times and it was a wonderful car. After 3-4 hours my legs felt great no cramping or anything. Definatly worth the money for this car. I had looked at many other cars. and this blew everything out of the water for the price/quality.
Perfect...
This car will change the way you look at wagons!
this car rocks
today is 10-06-02 and i got the car on the 3rd ( thursday )and i have already but 300 miles on it i cant be in it enough its so fun to drive i have the 5 speed edition and i am having so much fun in it you done need to speed or be crazy to have fun in it how great is that...!
Why didn't I buy one sooner?
This is the car to have, at least untill the STI comes out this summer. I have never had as much fun driving a car. I never want anything to happen to this car or I will be a very sad boy. If you have the loot, buy one now!!
My First Subaru
First thing I noticed when I drove this car home from a SoCal dealership was how quiet the engine was compared to all the Honda Civics I've owned. It's suprisingly fuel efficient if you stay off the boost, I netted 450 miles on a tank on that trip back home, where I average approximately 70 mph. Gas is now $2.90 for premium in my area, so this was a really pleasant suprise. The motor is pretty laggy though, but once you're in boost, it's heaven. The handling is awesome and still offers a pretty good ride. I feel this car has the perfect mix of power, handling, braking, and fuel economy... at any price. My co-worker owns a 2001 Audi S4 and this car feels like a 9/10 version of it.
When Lease Over, Will Get Another
In March 2001, I leased one of the first WRX in the U.S. and am very pleased after two years of driving it. It can outrun, out accelerate, and outcorner anything but the Porsche 911s or BMW M series on dry roads and outdo anything on rainy or snowy roads. Yet police never notice it (particularly my low-key black WRX wagon). I've got another year left on the lease, but am already planning to lease a newer WRX.
This wagon rocks!
This car handles and accelerates wonderfully considering it's not a light car for its size. The engine has a unique sound and a lot of torque. The chassis is downright unflappable, and again, the handling is simply amazing. I do notice, however, that the steering is more vague on the center than I thought, and the path control is not very accurate; nonetheless, the weighting and feel are very good. Build quality and material is also very good. Front room is good, but back room is a no-no for anyone over 5'6". The back seat is a bit too upright, though supportive. The trunk is bigger than I thought. Overall, a very good buy!!
Little Cash, Lot's of Car
The most practical, fun and fast car you can buy for under $25,000! A true all-season, all-condition fast and fun car. With performance tires it can handle with the best and with snow tires winters are a breeze. Not perfect, but you get more than you should for the money.
The AWD Fury under $26,000
This car is amazing! AWD and 227 hp. stock! I wasted a 5.0 mustang yesterday, and my car is still stock. So many performance mods for the car too, if you're a racing enthusiast. I'm an avid snowboarder, and the car handles and accelerates superbly up the mountains, even in the snow. My Eclipse doesn't compare!
Fun driving machine...
From just looking at the car, you would not believe how fun it will be behind the wheel of this vehicle. The power you get from the turbo-charge engine will make you feel like a kid again,while the AWD system give you confident and comfort.What makes me more confident about the WRX wagon is that the car is 100% made in Japan and no matter whether the road is wet or sandy,I always have conditent in every corners.
Great Car To BUY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
If any of you out there like SPEED, PERFORMANCE and MODIFICATIONS! Should go ahead get this car, even with standard manufacture's specs it will make you go WOW.......^_^ Also, there are so many aftermarket mod parts out there that will really amaze you if you want to put in a little more .........
If loving my new WRX is wrong....
... I don't wanna be right! This is a wonderful car! It's fast, quick, handles well, carries kids & cargo, loves the freeway & the winding backroad, & it looks good sitting still, too! It combines many of the assets of my 2 previous cars, a '99 Saturn SL2 & a Mustang GT. It's the best of both worlds! It's a very tight, well-built machine, very comfortable, & did I mention that it was F-A-S-T ??
Nice Ride
I traded in my beloved firebird for the WRX after a scary snow incident. The WRX has made the transition easy. The turbo gets things going quickly, the AWD handling is incredible. Its a sporty, reliable car. One you can take to the track for fun, or pack in some friends for a long road trip and still be comfortable. Very happy I purchased the WRX
Dr. Impreza and Mr. WRX
This vehicle is just flat out fantastic. With superb handling, terrific acceleration, and, of course, AWD for under $26,000, this car is indeed quite a steal. I can't express just how much fun this car is to drive...take one for a test drive and see for yourself. Mine goes through a lot, being that I drive to work everyday (about 50 miles a day) plus trips to Vermont in harsh snowy weather...this car is a real king in any condition. It has multiple personality disorder...on one side is a docile sedan. On the other is a fierce street legal rallycar. Gotta love it.
Very fast
The WRX is amazing. I considered the Altima and Jetta, but neither is as fast, fun, or safe (awd) to drive as my WRX. Also, the attention you get is pretty cool. WRX drivers always wave, as do other drivers. . . .its kind of like Bugmania except the car isn't feminine.
Super Car
I think this is the best car you could buy.
Dodge Ram 4x4 to WRX!!!
What a switch!! All I have ever driven has been a full size truck. My last was a Ram. I feel like I'm driving a Go-Cart!! I love it! I think the car has awesome bold styling and nice headlights. It is an absolute blast to drive. Its like having a toy and a commuter car all in one. The WRX is so versatile, sports car or hauler!
The MOST fun I've had in years
I have owned this fun, and enjoyable vehicle (my first Subaru) for seven months now. The AWD & Turbo is more fun than my previously owned 1966, 912 Porsche 5 speed, and my Saab 99E (front drive). High altitude driving from Sacramento to Reno is astonishing In the rain: I can not think of another car sold in the USA that can keep up with it through a given course- that does not sell for $10,000 more. I honestly believe that Subaru must subsidize the WRX sales for WRC rules. Like GOOD wine, if you do not understand it or appreciate it- don't buy it. Those that do will SMILE- I DO! Everyday that I drive.
Drive it, you'll like it!
Although I have owned 2 Subarus, I thought I was going to end up in a Jetta 1.8T, or used Audi A4. Jetta summary - higher perf and a higher price, no AWD, not as safe, or reliable. Comparably priced A4s were 1999 vintage, a bit long in the tooth. I considered the protege5, but looking at the safety data quickly ended that. The wagon's cargo options are extremely flexible. My 55 lb. dog fits comfortably in the back. The driver's seat is comfortable and visibility is good. The instrumentation is adequate. Although I read lukewarm reviews of the acceleration I suspect they were based on the automatic transmission. I find the M5 to be more than satisfactory.
love my Subie
I love the way this car handles. All for under $20K. I liked the way my boyfriend's WRX drives so much I got the RS so we could have one of each.
Good, good, good
Horsepower is more than enough to carry this car, which is barely bigger than my old civic. This thing moves better than most "real" sports cars. Front seats are comfy, they hug and provide support. Handling is great, I can take corners without breaking, not suggested though.
street king
it's a great feeling to have knowing that you have the quickest and fast ride at any intersection almost all the time (except for those expensive 350hp plus sports cars, and coupes). looks aren't that bad and is unique, interior not that cheap and is functional, performance/handling/acceleration is outstanding, seats are comfortable. acceleration is quick after 3000pms, so it needs a good reving up. i've had my WRX for 3 weeks and i've been taking cats out
ego's review
Just bought it and it kicks ass. Love the look, color and performance. Beware when you get one that people want to race you all the time.
Mixed Thoughts
I like the car alot but I guess I expected more refinement. The transmission at time sounds clunky but the handling and surge of power when the turbo kicks in makes me forget the shortcomings I find. Overall I would probably do it again but from a 4 cylinder, 23 miles a gallon is the best you are going to get
outback sport
I really enjoy driving this car. I do find the clutch to be a little stiff, and the turning radius is not what it should be on a car that size. Also, it gets terrible gas milage. However, I am very happy.
Pure enjoyment
Enjoy the vehical very much love the cornering and super acceleration. this is my first car with stick so i am not that great at it but it is comming quickly i dont think it is all that bad shifting, no rain yet but it will be comming and it will be no problem i am sure. i find interior setup pretty good. sound is not as bad as some say ti is. gotta love the all wheel drive
Awesome
There is no other car like it. Best bang for the buck and it looks too sweet. I have had no major problems with the car.
Hold on to your Nickers
The car is great. You can't get a better buy for under 30. Don't buy this car looking to modify, unless you take your time, because the parts are hard to come by. It's fun to drive, but to tell you the truth, i have no idea on how reliable it is. The WRX has only been around for a few years... But you should replace your car every 5 years anyways :P
the best 4 cyl car out there
The best handle in the business of automotive in the world
Another VW Convert
Owning a VW for the past 20 years, I was skeptical about the switch. Now I know what Subie owners have been keeping for themselves all these years. All the auto publications were not exaggerating what a value this car is compared to all else that is on the road. I just dig how well it performs in all conditions. Took it for a real test in the canyons above L.A. in the Angeles Crest National Forest area with lots of immediate twisties and it was impossible to keep the smile off my face. Nothing can touch this car for under 25K.
Ever want to hug a car?
I have been a VW fan for the last 15 years, at one time saying I would never buy anything else. That was until my '96 Jetta GLS. To say I was disappointed with it is an understatement. While looking for a replacement for that car, something fun like VW's without the problems, I started looking at the WRX wagon. I needed a wagon and 4 doors, otherwise I may have ended up with a GTi. I took the WRX for a test drive, and that is all it took. This car is pure joy to drive! I had to get one, and I did. I have been driving it now for six months, and I still love it. I still look for reasons to take it out and I am still volunteering to drive my friends to and from the airport. I love it!
Fun!fun!fun!
I live in New Jersey were the winters are rough.Snow,Rain,and ice are no match for this car.I love the roomey interior also.my friend is 6'8" and he has no problem getting into or out of the car.The mostimpressive thing about the car to me isthe performance!I love to drive fast and i was a bit worried at first if i would be able to keep up with people at the race track unless i modified the car.Let me tell you i have had no problem keeping up.the only car that i have racer and been beaten by was a corvette Z06 and a Viper Gts.This is the car to have if you want to shut up all those Civic owners out there.
love it
Really an a powerfull car that is under your command. And once it's hulked up that car looks completly diffirent.
Lots of fun
Basically the most fun car I have had a chance to drive. The handling is unbelivable. The turbo boost combined with excellent handling, speed, road grip, and flat out excelleration ( in 2-5th gear) is one hell of a ride. The body design is low key and boring but true auto enthusists know what its all about when they see one. Who else is there to immpress? The sports wagon design is very functional though and I wouldnt trade it for a sedan or racier.
bang for your buck!!!
This car lives and breathes for performance. if you want to have the best performing car for under $40,000 this is your car. You will have people wondering how can this car drive the way it does for only $25k. throw another $3,000 into it and you'll need a porsche to play with the WRX. The car was designed and perfected for one purpose to demolish the competition in performance and let me tell you they passed the test!
A Sleeper
I drive in Western Europe each year and really have grown to enjoy the strong little 5 speed rentals and the twisty back roads there. My work here in the US now has me commuting 75 miles round trip on country roads each day so I went looking for the best handling / performing rig I could find for under $20,000. There are some great cars (Jetta's/ Civic's / Focus) but the new Subaru 2.5 L. Sport Wagon is way ahead of the others in speed and handling. It is precise and smooth through the hard corners and the power is such that shifting down is minimized ... quick and easy. The all wheel drive is just fantastic when the road gets greezy ... makes it very safe.