Used 2005 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
STI performance quality
I love my STI. Coolest and fastest car I've ever driven. Buying one pre-owned for me was easier on the wallet: car price-wise and insurance-wise. The MSRP for a STI brand new is about $32-33K. Pretty steep for a young bachelor such as myself. The dealer I bought off of started the car at $31k but was willing to crank it down to $29k, which was sufficient. I got a lot for the money; 300hp, dramatic acceleration, great all-wheel drive system, brilliant supercar interior. Just driving it, I forget I'm in a Subaru; it's a velocity dream car that can outrun a 280hp Mustang in the 1/4 mile. I feel really safe in the STi. Get a lot of looks driving down the road. The car looks mean. I love it
Patiently breaking it in...
This is my third Subaru. After one week of ownership I still get a smile on my face everytime I get in and take off. The car has been flawless so far.
- 2.5 RS WagonMSRP: $12,80012 mi away
- WRX STiMSRP: $24,577165 mi away
- 2.5 RS WagonMSRP: $5,450388 mi away
Poor man's M3
Car is fantastic to drive around town. Great brakes and acceleration. Engine has lots of torque compared to Mitsu EVO that had no bottom end. 6 speed works well and engine settles down at cruise. Glad I got the 2004 as the 2005 interior and rear flares are not an upgrade. Only the console and HVAC controls are better over the 2004. So - buy the 2004 if you can find one and take the savings to add a killer stereo. Hope they figure out the code on the engine ship soon so we can reflash for more power.
Fast, awesome handling, great braking
This car is amazing, purchased one over an EVO and haven't looked back. The car is amazing on the straight aways and truly shines in the corners. Nothing compares.
good car
it is a very good buy for the price. this is my first one, and i am going to buy one for my sister.
First '05 STi in town
Perfect blend of high performance, practicality, reliability, and affordability--all for $32k. I had my Aspen White '05 STi hot shipped for May 1st delivery. I drove an '03 WRX as a demo for 10 months prior to picking up the STi. WRX was plenty fun, but the STi experience is in a league of its own and the two can't be compared. I also owned a '96 C4 just before getting the Subaru. Subaru's AWD is better than the C4's and I'm not concerned when driving the STi because it's got a 3/36 warranty.
Scoobys Rule. Period.
I love it. I can't imagine that I waited this long to own such an awesome car.
What a fun ride
When I finally decided to buy my first new car, I knew there was only one choice; a Subaru. I was debating an Outback 2.5i, but didn't want that high of a payment each month, so I went with the reliable Impreza Wagon. I cannot complain. This thing rides like a top. It was a great improvement over my last car and I play to drive this for hundreds of thousands of miles, as most Subarus will run forever. I really wish that the factory accessories didn't cost so much.
The Best WRX Yet!
I purchased one of the first 2005 WRXs in my local area, and boy am I satisfied. I am very young but even before I could drive I had my eyes on the WRX. The car is very sleek, and very sneaky. Upon launch it feels like any other four-cylinder until the turbo kicks in right before 3000rpm, then you're flying. The AWD provides perfect handling in any weather condition. The 227hp Boxer engine sounds quite muscular. This car catches the eye and fools the ignorant. GO TEST DRIVE ONE TODAY!
Great all around car
I live in New England and this car does it all. Bought it brand new with zero miles and now has almost 100k and still going strong. No major troubles. Just your BASIC oil change and filter. 300 hp, how can I complain? Gas mileage is good also for a vehicle with 300 hp. You don't buy the car for the gas mileage it gets, but that's just me. Things that are bad with this car are to be expected. It's a sub 35k car brand new. For the price, it cant be beat in terms of performance, reliability, comfort, and space as a package. You cant expect this car to be your high end 90k price tag amg Mercedes. It's a Subaru...
sweetness
just a overall fun to drive car, you get looks everywhere you go! be careful though because it is a magnet to girls, cops, and theives. but at the end of the day its alllll worth it. thank you subaru
YeeeeeeHaaaaaa
THIS THING IS A ROCKET SHIP! It so so quick and so fast that it is scary. I equate it to holding a calm cat that just got scared and is digging in to get the hell out of Dodge. Once break-in is over (even before!)you will not want to drive this thing without a radar detector present. The closest you will get to a supercar under $100,000. There are very few vehicles in the US that can challenge the STi, anywhere!
Best sports car for the money
This is the second WRX that I have owned. It has been driven in heavy snow and rain w/ original tires and has never let me down.
Truck replacement
I was looking for a car to replace my truck so I got the Subaru and a utility trailer. The Subaru with AWD is much better than my truck in 4WD in the snow. The Subaru gets 24-27MPH the truck got 17-18. They are equal speed. I can tow up to 1500 pounds including the weight of the trailer which is all that I need for house hold chores and toy (ATV/Dirtbike) hauling. The mechanics of this car are solid. I am not easy on it and nothing has failed me. I even went 80,000 before replacing the brakes and 50,000 before the tires. This car handles so well in the snow that it is not even fun.
Amazing car
Coming from a '02 WRX, this is an amazing car. I cannot believe the difference between my Stage 1 WRX and the STi. The torque delivery, overall smoothness and minimal turbo lag, make me a happy person. The suspension is much tighter than the WRX, but that is totally expected. I also hear of some people saying the seats are too hard..give me a break! The shifter, transmission and brakes shine compared to my WRX. The throws are much shorter and the gearing seems to complement the whole package with a nice brake setup too. Don't get me wrong, I think the WRX is an awesome car and I'll miss mine, but the STi is filling the void with no problems :)
awsome
the car is wasome the 6 speed is awsome and the car hauls ass
Great Car
I commute 60 miles per day and was looking for economy car with a hatchback. I was considering the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Si Wagon and the Subaru Impreza. I debated the WRX, but the turbo defeated the purpose of gas economy. The 2.5 engine has plenty of power for this little car and it zips along fine. I commute over a mountain pass everyday. I live at 7,000 ft. and used to be white knuckled when driving my old 4x4 truck in the snow. Not the case with the Impreza; handles great in winter weather. After driving it for 7,000 miles, I must say that I have had not one problem with it. Its reliable, has great power, handles great, feels safe on the road, and was an excellent choice.
This thing is a beast.
This is the most amazing car that a true enthusiast can own given this type of price range. It is an amazing blend of value, comfortability, performance, and reliability. It never stops putting grins on my face, whether it is raining or shining. I thought about the Evolution, but given Mitsubishi's poor reliability, warranty denial stories, and also stories of them spying on Evolution owners. I chose to go with Subaru due to previous positive experience with the manufacturer. I have driven everything out there from little Miatas to E46 M3's and this thing blows them all away.
The Affordable Supercar
I have owned this car for 3 years now, and I can honestly say there is no other car in the 30k-45k price range I would rather have. Being in the driver's seat is pure bliss, and the road will bow to your every whim. The turbo engine keeps driving exhilarating, and requires some skill to unleash fully. Interior is spartan but sufficient. Exterior screams "fear me". Fuel economy has been around 22 mpg mixed, which is excellent for such a ferocious car. Have not had a single mechanical issue yet. Take warning: 1. The ride is brutal 2. Car thieves will try to jack your car (3 attempts on my car already!)
best all around
this car rocks its faster than i ever thought everywhere we go we get compliments by the tons total comfort great mpg for this car we got 29 mpg and that was after a pretty good run from oregon to washington and back i cant say enough about this car by far the best investment we made
Super commuter car!
We compared this 2005 Impreza RS2.5 to the Civic SE and couldn't believe the difference. MUCH better handling, power, and performance. This is my commuter car and it is perfect for just that. Quiet interior, superb handling; a lot of fun to drive. Build quality is solid with a great looking interior. How can this car and the Civic be in the same price category?
Love it!
This car is the total package. It outperforms most sports cars on the market, reliable, gets decent gas mileage, AND will carry 4 average adults comfortably. This car was my dream car prior to the US getting it and it has not let me down. The gas mileage averages about 25-26 on the highway (no a/c on). To push this car to it's limits is VERY difficult to do because the limits of the driver come WAY before. Completely stock, this car is ready for the track (some safety mods -- better brake pads, lines, and fluid would help). Overall, I am very pleased with this car and would recommend it to anyone wanting a REAL sports car that is livable without paying big bucks.
Subaru Impreza RS
So far I've had this car for a week, and I love it! It's so smooth and handles the roads very well. I can't get enough of it's cute and sporty look.
Black STi
The WRX STi is a great fun to drive car. It has positive handling, with no under/over steer faults(due to the adjustable center diff.) the car has a huge power band with 200hp at only 4000 rpm! and 300 hp at 6000 rpm! the car is faster than many other sedans in the same price range(BMW 325, Audi A4). If your a true car enthusiast, you will love the car.
Great Car! More fun than newer models!
I bought a Subaru Impreza sport wagon. It's funny because it was more of a hatchback than a station wagon and it handled amazingly well. I recently totaled it but came out without a scratch! When I test drove the new 2008 Imprezas, they were clunkier, heavier, and didn't take turns as well. I know 3 years isn't long, but I never had a single problem that brought me to the dealer. I'm a huge fan and wish they didn't redesign the imprezas so I could happily buy another one! Great gas mileage, handling, braking, acceleration (for it's price and engine), lots of storage space on the wagonI
a crossover buyer from American Muscle.
I have had this car a week. the performance is nothing less than spectacular. Acceleration, Handling, Braking all superb. Do not expect luxury, this is a purpose built machine that has surpassed my expectation. The 2.5L has a rumble that rivals some V-8, 0-60 4.8?? yep, and it is not even broken in. this thing will give a corvette a fair race. and you can haul your kids, and stuff.
My 2004 Subar WRX STI
I love this car! I own a little '92 Honda Civic HB and I tell myself that I'm going to drive the Civic to work for commuting but I can't resist driving the WRX because it's so much fun. If you like fast cars like me you'll love this car. Before making any judgments on this car I suggest you go to your nearest Subaru dealership to test drive it to see for yourself. After that the price doesn't seem so bad.
Awsome Car
This Is An Awsome Car. Subaru Has Done It. Forget The M3, All You Need Is An STi.
Best 35k evar!!
From a technical standpoint the car stands alone from anything even $20,000 more expensive than this car. It's a top notch vehicle with top notch technology proven in WRC time and time again. Finally, a true racecar with state plates makes it's way to the family man. It's both fun and practical. I can take my 1yr old daughter in the back with a car seat and drive it just as nicely as I'd drive my Grandma's car. I drop her off, stow the seat in the trunk, dawn my helmet and head straight for the track. Best car evar!!!
Charles Atlas
This is the Charles Atlas of Automobiles There are few automobiles that can outperform this small car. And I have as yet to find one. Everyone should try this one before they spend more money for a name.
The most fun and reliable car I ever own
I have driving 7,500 miles and I look forward to every time I get to drive it. It's so much fun even going to the supermarket. On the highway, it's pure exhiliaration. I can just cruise or keep it up 5 notches to pass other annoying drivers and other aggresive drivers that like to tailgate me. This car has so much mid- range power that it really suprises me when I have to pass another vehicle. The interior is not as fancy as some of my friend's Audi or Infiniti but it's good enough for all my needs. Although I see they may some minor changes in the 2005 model that I love to have in my.
the STI
This car is amazing in every asspect. The car comes fast right off of the assembly line yet there are so many things that you can do to it to make it faster if thats what you choose to do.
true
Thin sheetmetal, thin paint, notchy shifter, easily customized, fantastic performance, great utility. No other car comes close at this price; nice interior for class. Great seats. Wish the wagon had a sunroof.
Week Old & Totalled
I only had the opportunity to drive the vehicle about ten times before the accident. It handled really well and was fun to drive. The seats became pretty uncomfortable for both my wife and me after 45-60 minutes of driving. I would suggest anyone looking at buying an Impreza to take a long test drive before deciding to buy. I have concerns over the safety of the vehicle from rear impact accidents. Both seat backs broke and were in the reclined position after our accident. In fact the seats went back so far that they bent over the rear seat. We were also pushed into the car in front of us at a considerable speed and the airbags did not deploy.
best car on the road... , for me anyway
This car handles like a dream. Does very well in the ice and snow of Wyoming and Nebraska, it never leaves you guessing. Definately recommend to people looking for a fun fast compact.
Way to go Subaru, I love the STi
nothing wrong with it, this car is truley amazing
Excellent car
I have owned this car for a year now and put on 15,000 miles. It is easily just as much fun now as when I first bought it, actually more. I started auto crossing it this year with amazing results. The corner steering is pretty pushy but that is about the only negative thing I can think of for the STi and that can be fixed with bigger sway bars and an alignment. The ride is pretty comfortable for a long trip and as long as you are easy with it, it gets good gas mileage for 300HP. Overall I believe it is a wonderful car for the money.
Turbo lag is bad!
This is my third Subaru and second WRX. I bought it last October and loved it all through the winter. But driving it in the summer with the air on is like pulling teeth. I feel like I'm working it far too hard to get it to move. It drives me NUTS! We recently purchased a '04 Acura TL and its torque is addicting! I never have to worry about what gear I'm in like I do with my WRX. Also, I wanted heated seats, mirrors and a sunroof but couldn't get them. I also wanted to get rid of the roof rack. Who knew Saab would be selling the Subaru I really wanted?! This car will be leaving our fleet very soon to be replaced by an Infiniti G35 Coupe.
STi Performance with RS Style
I previously owned an Intrepid with roughly the same MPG, but nowhere close to the responsiveness, handling or acceleration of the Japanese Monster. Prior to purchasing the STi I did a little research on the Evo MR. For the price and resale value, you just can't beat the Subie. Granted the Evo has a slight advantage in most categories, the Impreza is much more fun on a daily basis and as a daily drive. IMO if you are looking for a strictly track car get the MR, if you plan on having a life outside of direct competition, you better bet the STi takes the win. Subaru has an awesome track record, unlike most of its Japanese-American counterparts.
Subaru Redeemed
I owned nothing but Surarus from 1972-87 and then went back in 2002, buying a Legacy Outback. The car was virtually impossible to drive smoothly in low gear (manual) and I complained to Subaru for three years. They offered a small compensation amount and just before Christmas it bucked one too many times so I was off to the dealership. I had some trepidation and tested this model in every possible situation before buying. I have had it a month and found it a delight--stable, spunky and fun to drive. I use it for commuting, errands and a very occasional 4-5 hour trip. I am once again a very happy Subaru camper and highly recommend the car for size, performance, and versatility.
Fun to drive
This car is awesome to drive. It is fun, and provides good handling and feel for the road. Not recommended for driving over bumpy roads, unless you want a sore behind. A bit rough, definitely not a luxury car. The interior is cheap; for my car, the seat material was wrinkling up (got it fixed through warranty), drivers visor mirror fell off, stock armrest extension not secured well to the car (quite fragile), and several other issues. This car was definitely meant to be modded (modified).
Blown away
Subaru has just lowered the price of the 2005 Impreza RS from last year. They also just came up with a lease price that's hard to beat. So, I leased my first car ever. With it's All Wheel Drive, (AWD) 2.5 165 hp motor, I find it the most fun and safe car I have ever owned. I always knew they were great cars, but I am blown away at the handling of this new and improved 2005 RS from Subaru! Kudos to Subaru.
2004 WRX STI Review
Love this car to death! It's very very fast, reliable, good looking and fun to drive. It's worth the money, 100%. I get so many other people waving at me and giving me a "thumbs up" when I drive by that I feel like I'm a celebrity. Flat out best car on the market, bar none. Porsche-like speed with 4 doors, rail like handling ... you just can't beat it.
Thank god for Subaru
I definitely am enjoying this car. I sold my acura for this car. It is awesome to drive, handles great in street driving. You can definitely dig in to any cornern and feel safe. It has enough power even with the 160 hp version. Smooth shifting, instant response, no delay w\non turbo. So as a daily driver or out for some fun this car can do both.
WOW
I'm recently out of a 2002 Civic Ex and into an Impreza RS 2.5 auto. I was shocked to see how much my Subaru rode and handled like a VW. The Subaru is rock solid, has excellent handling and sticks to the road like glue. Made my old Civic EX feel like I was driving a wheelbarrow. Fit and finish are on par with the rest of Japan. This vehicle comes highly recommended
Outstanding all-around car
Fast, reliable, excellent utility. I can haul snowboards to the mountains and take it to a track day and still have a blast. Easily customized. Reprogram the ECU for an easy ~25hp bump. Driveability improves as boost comes on sooner. Short shifter kit also suggested. I only get 22mpg on mixed commute.
'05 STi review
This car is awesome! I have a commuter car but I always want to drive my STi. It is so hard to keep the miles down because you will always want to drive it. I've taken it to autocross and drag events and out performed all new cars around the 30k price range. I don't consider myself an awesome driver but behind the wheel of this car you sure feel like it!
I FEEL LIKE AN ADDICT
This car is so addicting that it draws you to the driver's seat and says let's go! The unbelievable power that is pumped out of this four banger is incredible, the car handles corners like it was a straight away, it stops on a dime picks it up, then gives you change. I cant believe the amount of respect this car gets no one wants to race you in fear of humiliation. This is absolutely the funnest car I've ever drove! (P.S. I didn't even notice there was a stereo.) Worth every penny!
The Beast!!!!!!!
What a phenomenal car. It handles like a Porsche and accelerates like one too. It's reliable and you can have four people in it as well. Good size trunk. Fun factor in this car is an absolute 10!!!!!
Great car, poor lumbar support
If you're looking for a fun-to-drive car that's inexpensive, yet fast "out of the box" -- look no further. Yes, an Evo is faster, but you can get a dealership down to $23/24K with research and careful choice of options. Also, I wonder if Mitsu Co. will be around in a decade. For anyone who has a long commute, I would heartily recommend buying lumbar support. Otherwise, after the 1K break-in period, this all-wheel drive turbo fun machine will have you grinning at every driving opportunity. That is, if you can drive a manual transmission. I'm 6 foot with a 32 inch inseam, and have no problem fitting into the driver's seat. The pedals are set for heel-toe driving, so get tapered shoes.