Used 2005 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
Fast and practicle fun
Very predictable handling and holds on tight to wet roads. Handling in the snow is very good after the summer only tires are changed to mud and snow tires. Auto temp control works well. There is actually enough room in the back seat for an adult human of average size, but not for an extended trip. Trunk space is good with room for golf clubs and groceries. Ride is tolerable to good,except on a real rough roads, you wont lose your teeth. Lots of road noise from the tires, but much better with with the M/S tires. The rear wing is annoying and attracts alittle more attention than I care for. Gas mileage is around 22-24 for me but I drive conservative. I look forward to driving it every time
awesome car
Got it as a Christmas present...Driving this car is so much car... Probably the one car thats completely performance packed... Turbo engine, AWD, sport suspension... Everytime there is a reason for me to go out, i get excited just to drive the car.. absolutely fun car...
- WRX SedanMSRP: $15,999286 mi away
- WRX STiMSRP: $24,577526 mi away
- 2.5 RS WagonMSRP: $4,490570 mi away
Not perfect, but a great value
I have a 2002 WRX wagon. The car is VERY fun to drive - but before purchasing understand the maintenance costs of AWD(blow one tire, you either have toreplace all four or buy a special onewith the same tread). Premium gas isvery expensive nowadays too. But the car is a great value because it's a blast to drive and will tear up the road, but you can fit five people in it if you have to and the cargo room is excellent for acar this size. The car lacks in creature comforts - the seats hold you in very well around corners but is uncomfortable especially if you are a larger person. Cupholders and storage desperately needs improvement. But, I love my car becauseit does it all.
Awesome ride a must own
We got it 2 days ago and I keep getting people coming up to me saying it's a beautiful car! Fun to drive, plenty of power despite not having a turbo all in all for the price you cant go wrong.
This Car Kicks
Well designed vehicle! Lots of power, not a v8 so some turbo lag if u don'trev the engine. Grocery getter below 3krpm,but once u hit 4-5k this baby takesoff! The AWD system is terrific! I live in Michigan & during winter I'm passing 4X4pickups/suv's on the hwy @60 mph whilethey are doing 25 waiting for the plowtruck to arrive .The Subie is truly amazing in the snow, I'd say it handles just as well in bad weather as it does during a clear, dry day. Price shot up from $21-28kthough :-( but only a Mustang GT can giveu similar/better 0-60 for the $ but w/o AWD handling or Subaru's bulletproof reliability. Nothing can match its performance or value for the $!
Great Car
Excellent performance, best bang for your buck...
Was so fun to drive and proven very safe
I got my Subie in the end of December and loved it instantly. I admit, I was pretty bad at driving stick, so it took some getting used to, but the car just stuck to the road like it was glued down. The styling is unique. That's the only way i can put it. The ride is definately choppy though. If you want asmooth ride, look elsewhere. This is a sports car. The car proved very safe as well recently when I hit a car parked onthe highway at around 70 mph. The cabin was untouched. I walked away with nothing but a couple of bruises and a small burn from the airbag. It couldhave been much worse. This is a very fun and safe car!!!
Love the OBS SE
Bought this as a safe car for my 16 year old daughter..and to travel with my dog..guess what....I prefer it over my Infiniti QX4! Handles well, easy to glide into small parking spaces, and is fun to drive. Snow is not a problem! The SE package gives you so much extra for so little. I love drving it. Otherwise what a great wagon for the money. Try it, you'll like it...that's if you can find one.
The Definition of "Bang for the Buck"
Leased an '05 WRX in November, and have 6K miles on it. I looked at lots of different cars in the segment, RSX-S(Acura heritage and interior, 6-speed, but stubby exterior, no AWD) Lancer (terrible standard features, and just plain ugly) Mazda 6 (slow, no AWD) and SRT-4 (dude, it'a a NEON!), and there was no comparison with the amazing WRX. Explosive acceleration, killer styling, awesome winter handling, and the most fun you can have under $30K. This was the only car that had it all, and is the most fun car I have ever driven. Do yourself a favor, and test drive this car, It will benchmark all the other cars you're looking at. Now, if only they had a better transmission for this rocket..
A performance bargain
The STi has the perfomance of a BMW M3 for about half the price. The all-wheel drive with front and rear limited-slip differentials is awesome in the snow (when the car is equipped with winter tires). You can't get a better performing, safer, more reliable car for the money.
awesome
incredible vehicle, love it to death and will buy a new one.
Awesome car
I drive this thing very hard and it has held up well (except for the time I crashed into a curb while shredding up the snow). This car rocks when it comes to driving in the snow. It is a fun car. This car handles incredibly well and accelerates quickly with the turbo. The turbo lags a little..
The best street legal rally car
I had a 2003 WRX and everything I wanted to improve on the STi did. The power is NOW and never quits. Run some race gas mixed with 91 and hold on. Take it on a mountian road and enjoy the slight oversteer. I've talk two different people into buying one and they're as happy as I am.
What a great toy!
After 7k of driving I am still to see 28mpg. Actual between 20 and 26. A couple of instances of gas pedal abuse will drop it to 20. Normal travel is 140 M of hwy each day. Speeds between 70 and 75 = 26. 80+ < 24Seats and suspension are great for cornering and performance driving, but have a negative impact after 10hrs of constant driving (pain begins at 4hrs).An extremely positive car to drive. Great feedback via controls. Great breaking. Have found a tendency to understeer under heavy braking. Tends to oversteer under gas. This works great to tighten a turn up when pushing it. Paid just over 23K-
STi
Visceral. It's the best way to describe this car. If you are looking for a practical and reliable car with super car performance on a budget this is it. Handling is top notch (more than you'llever need on the street). Acceleration comes in boatloads from 2000rpm toredline. Braking is excellent thanks to the big brembos. All of that performance combined with excellent Subaru reliability, and a nicely done interior thanks to Saab and this car is the complete package.
Speed Limiter
Speed limiter is at 147? why? Evo is 157
Extremely Multi-Talented Car
The WRX is a car that does many things well, but is not particularly outstanding at any one thing. As a sports car person, I never expected to own a 4-door car. But here I am and I'm quite happy with it! At high revs with the turbo working, the WRX has good power and definitely puts a smile on your face.-Handling is very sharp. This means the ride is a bit rough over bumpy roads, but the WRX doesn't pretend to be a luxury sedan.-AWD and 4 doors make the WRX actually pretty practical.-Standard equipment is quite nice. Not outsanding, but still very sufficient.
BEST CAR IV'E EVER HAD!!!
This is an excellent car and is one of the most impressive cars I have ever drove. The styling for the Impreza WRX is superb with the just noticable hood scoop and the unique spoiler. Also the power on this car is great. But unfortunatly the fog lights are a bit strange.
2005 Subaru WRX STi Sedan
Pros: blistering acceleration, sharp & responsive handling, build quality, seat comfort, tight & precise shifter, excellent brakes, standard equipment level (for this type of vehicle), good a/c & heater, fuel economy (24-25 mpg mixed driving), all wheel drive, excellent price considering overall performance and amenities. Cons: punishing ride on anything but smoothest of roads (jarring, skips, & kicks), poor sounding audio system, extremely short tire-life, poor paint quality, rear seat does not fold down for pass-through.
I love the WRX!
Performance that can't be beat for the price! Much more solid than the SRT-4 and superior handling to the Mustang. The WRX is great through the turns or on the highway. Interior is comfortable but the cup holders are a nuisance. The car is suited for any and every condition (try taking it on some dirt roads for a real treat!) and is a pleasure to drive. Headlights aren't strong enough for a vehicle of this performance and the brakes are a bit squishy, but the car can take a beating and keep on going!
Rocket-powered Rollerskate
This is the most exciting automobile that I have ever driven. Taken to the edge of its performance, it is breath-taking. It is not built for larger people. While the seats are comfortable and the controls are all within easy reach, large drivers will find it difficult to enter and exit this sedan. Like most compact sedans, the back seats are even smaller than the front. The boot is very spacious and access is easy. Fuel mileage is highly dependent on how one drives and spirited style will lower the mileage substantially. Quality control standards are equal to or greater than US or European luxury standards.
Nice toy car!
I only had this car for 4 days and must say I really enjoy driving this car! Handling is superb for a stock suspension. Nice alternative for the pricey STi.
Wife's Outback Sport Special Edition
The ride is very nice for such a short wheelbase, lots of room for the size (two greyhounds fit in the back with the back seat down with no problem). The stereo is very nice and the interior seems to be well made. Overall a good value for the money and a solid car. I miss a sunroof but that will be corrected next year.
'05 Impreza
This is simply the best vehicle I have ever owned. It's fun, reliable, efficient, and won't get me stuck (in western NY winters).
Fast and FUN
I am a 22 year old male that loves this car. In February i picked up an '05 Sentra Spec V and that was fun ... for the first month. Then I wanted a turbo so I started looking and wasn't sure if I wanted a EVO MR or the STi. Glad I picked the STi; I have no regrets.
Extraordinary
The car is fantastic. The handling is neutral and very responsive. The brakes have a lot of stopping power. The car has a lot of grip. The engine has a lot of bottom end torque as well as peak horsepower. The car works very well int he wet, and the hydroplaning stability is superb. I have never driven a better car in the snow. I had Michelin Pilot Alpin snow tires on it, this winter, and on three highway trips in snow storms, there was no other vehicle with the grip, stability, and control to keep up with me. The interior is well laid out, comfortable, and efficient. Overall, I think this car is probably the best valued car made; it certainly is the best performance car value.
Best price to value car out there
Had the car for 2 months now and I must say that I'm very impressed by most everything about the car. Handling is incredible, the car grips the road like no other (but I do get a greater sense of body roll than in every other car I've owned). It's got a decent powerband for a 2.0L but the car doesn't really show it until you're pushing 3000 RPMs because the turbo takes awhile to spool up due to a cat just inches before the turbo. The car offers a fairly smooth ride despite a stiffer suspension that the average car. The seats hold you in as you're zipping around turns and console navigation is a breeze. I love the car. I've owned quicker AWD turbos, but nothing as reliable or in the budget.
Bang for your buck
2000 miles under my belt in my new WRX wagon and no major complaints. It doesn't excel in any one area, but does a lot of different things really well. It's not perfect, but nothing else in this price range performs like this. It's a true driver's car, so its not always that comfortable, but so what? The all-wheel drive and turbo provide lots of fun on the way to work and the grocery store.
2005 STi
Awesome car! Definitely the best performance for anything under $50k. Can match or beat most cars of any price range in any type of performance. It drives and handles amazingly. The AWD truly puts the 300 hp to the streets. Awesome turbo power through the full spectrum of rpm's. Its aggressive exterior is eye catching and turns plenty of heads. Its boy-racer style aggressive looks truly inspired me. It truly is an amazingly awesome sport compact car.
If I could put higher than a 10, I would
My brother first introduced me to the Subaru brand, and even at the very first test drive, I fell in love with this car! I have nothing bad to say about it; it is amazing and sooooo much fun to drive.
This One Does it All!
After 8,000 miles with this car, I still get excited to take this car out every time I start the engine. The performance is great and acceleration is addicting, especially knowing that it's a wagon. The standard features are adequate, but the 2006 version has much more, but at the cost of a questionable (borderline ugly) front design. Turbo lag is a real issue; the car is just a notch faster than sluggish below ~3,000 rpms. Unless you're launching at 5,000 rpms, expect a slow start until turbo spools up. You can't get a better car for the price. I would not hesitate to buy this one again.
2005 2.5 RS wagon
I don't know how anyone looking for an economical AWD vehicle doesn't grab this one immediately. I have no problems, although I do believe that at 50,000k I shouldn't have any problems. Fact is a lot of cars do have issues after a few km's. I live in Edmonton, Alberta Canada, and during one of our largest snow storms in recent times, I was out having fun and watching all the people in regular cars, digging pushing and swearing. This car has been rock solid, the one single complaint I have is the paint, it is not terrible, just would think it could be more rugged, but then again, it's my first new car and scuffs show up easier.
Swiss Army Knife on 4 wheels
I've owned it for more than two years and I've got about 42,000 miles on it. I STILL look forward to my commute! I also end up volunteering to drive my friends everywhere. I really can't think of a better car to have purchased. It's done everything from weekend joyrides to moving an impossible loads. The performance and handling have gotten me out of trouble on the road that I might not have otherwise avoided. Reliability has been spotless other than a few glitches with the lock/unlock beeper. Slipping the clutch at 3000RPM produces little lag. Keep the RPMs above 4000 on a twisty road, and you discover the genuine gran-tourismo character of this car.
These cars are super fast.
This has to be the fastest and most fun car Ive ever driven or owned. In the summer it's like the car is stuck to the pavement like a magnet. In the winter it is even more fun, with 300 horses and full time awd you wish there were more turns and more snow.
JUST PLAIN FUN!
Just traded in my Mustang GT to get my new STi. Spent the better part of the last 4 years scrounging around to get parts that would speed up the Stang. Such a relief to buy a car with everything you need straight out the dealership. Made with quality parts that are made to last. Unlike the Mustang which consists of parts that are made to replace. Must admit, my STi was modified, but I had visited other STi's before I found the one I purchased and was impressed with them all. Could not drive to 7-11 without being "tested" by a Honda tuner in the Stang. SERIOUSLY. Interesting, that imports now drive by me in the STi without even revving their engines. THAT'S what I call RESPECT!
Awesome Car!
Great car! I had an 02 WRX before picking up the STi. What a difference. Everything about the car is amazing. A must have!
Most bang for buck
I'm writing this review because I just finished my 45-mile commute in the snow and it was actually a pleasant ride. The car is stable and comfortable in any situation: high speed, low speed, rain, snow, dirt or mud, etc. It's not perfect: I am seriously upgrading to a Legacy GT Wagon or an A4 Avant, but for $21k, it's the most practical, fun, and reliable car out there. Just don't expect luxury. 40,000 miles in 1.5 years and no problems except for a few rattles, which is something you'll hear a lot with Subarus. I drive 80mph to work in dry weather (all highway), and I get only 21 mpg, so lack of a 6th speed is disappointing.
Never Again
I bought this car after researching it against its competitors and hearing that they were great cars. I owned the car from 6/05-8/06 and put 33k on it. The dealership got to know me on a first name basis over this time. Problem areas that I encountered: keyless entry+chirp replaced, got a nail in one of the tires and had to replace all 4= $700, overheated 2x on a short 500 mi trip - left stranded, exhaust manifold began to rattle - had to be re-welded on, leather wrapped steering wheel came undone after a month, rattling speaker on left side had to be replaced 3 times, inconsistent cruise control+/-15mph but dealership couldn't fix, and trunk release amongst a handful of other problems.
Good value and fun to drive
Base model hatchback hauls a lot more than I expected. Where I work it's all large SUVs and full-size 4WD trucks but I have had no problems with clearance through mud and snow and I stick to the road a lot better (and faster) than they do with way better mileage. Base model has enough power for real world and car is pretty rock solid. Did have a rock take out my air conditioning (dealer then put a screen under the grill) and windshields don't take rocks too well, seem to crack easier than they should. All in all, way more fun than a truck or SUV with much lower operating costs. When the 2008s arrive I intend to buy one.
Sti fanatic
Absolutely love the value and memories in this car i miss mine every day. Id buy another one in a heartbeat. Turbo cars have turbo problems but this car can battle with the likes of corvette, ferrari, gtr for a fraction of the price
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Faster than the law allows
This vehicle should come with a bio-degradable operator's licence. Although I have received only one speeding citation, it is because of a good radar-detctor and exceptional good fortune. The performance is breath-taking: in addition to unbelievable acceleration and braking, it corners as if it is on rails. It looks like economy sedan on steroids and if it has a single drawback it is the driver comfort that it lacks. The fuel economy is limited by the weight of one's right foot, but that means it is fair-to-poor milage for my driving style. The STi's greatest asset is "Fun" which it has in abundance. It is addictive, so enjoy the abuse if you purchase one.
YOU WANT THIS CAR!
I have had my Impreza wagon for almost a year now. No issues less a little window screech now and again. I live in Vermont now, and the AWD is superb in the snow (drove to Boston in a blizzard and it was wicked fun!), and solid feeling on wet roads in driving rain as well. I will only be getting a new one when there is a moonroof option and leather seating. It would be nice to have cold weather packages in dealer stock, like wiper warmers, and wheel well warmers to counter snow build up in the front especially. Despite my desire for perfection ... a true winner. My sister has an '04 automatic, and having driven both extensively, I recommend the manual for more power.
Love this Car!
This car has been wonderful for me! Since the date of purchase I have not had any mechanical or other problems at all. I love driving it around, the car always gets a few looks. This car is not WRX but it still has a lot of punch to it, it's very fun to drive. The only downside is that the mileage is not the greatest, however keep in mind that you are getting excellent AWD performance at all times. On a 60 litre tank of gas, i average about 600km per tank.
my best car so far
I'm a car enthusiast, and a former owner of two Acura Integras and one Nissan 350z and by far my Impreza WRX has been my best ride, sporty yet practical, fast, not flashy, reliable, and most important fun to drive on a daily basis and to own for that matter.
Fun Car
Purchased an 05' WRX, absolutely love it. The all wheel drive definately sets it apart from other cars in its class. If you want a fun and comfortable car to drive i would recommend looking into a WRX.
Nice Subby
Bought the 2005 STI in May of this year. Since then I have noticed only VERY small limitations to the performance of the this car. If you plan on buying an STI, here is what to expect. YES, turbo lag only until you hit the 3000 RPM area; then its a beast. Understeer on tight corners, and vision out the rear view mirror because of the wild foot tall wing, love it! I have to admit coming from all types of American and German vehicles, this car has what it takes to be a real threat to the more exotic cars available and in some cases half the price and to boot economical at the pump! Another little tidbit...you're going to need to invest in floor mats and the better sounding stereo system!
Most Fun Compact Car with AWD!
I've had my Impreza 2.5 RS Sports Wagon for just over a month. It's exactly what I'm looking for -- compact size, reasonable power, and lots of cargo space. I've had two other compact cars (Dodge Neon and Ford Focus) and the Impreza is the best by far. The front seats are excellent for everyday driving, they are very supportive and controls are exactly where they should be. Passing power is great in city, I can change lanes with ease. One thing that I'm uncertain about the Impreza are the frameless doors, although they feel sporty, but might increase wind noise in a couple years ?
Owning an amazing car.
My name is Leo , and I have owned my Subaru WRX STI for two years now. This car his given me no problems at all. I am from a small town where it snows a little so people are always struggling with driving in the winter, but with my Subaru the snow was no challenge . The AWD makes it ride really smooth and all 4 seasons. I did not even have to worry about putting chains on my car , for the car would go through it like nothing . Not only are these cars amazing with weather, but they are also really fun ( speed wise ) . My car just got a stage 2 tune with a Cobb v3 accessport and it runs amazing! I have it tuned at 19 psi and can hear te turbo starting to spool as soon as I hit the gas. I have the td04 turbo which is not the best at starting to spool, but once it spools the car pulls really hard. I also have an ERZ downpipe, Cobb v3 accesport, GBF BOV, Perrin cold air intake , mancoo boost gauge , and bigger injectors. I have not had one single problem with my car since I bought it. I got my car for 18 thousand dollars with 96xxx miles, and I can tell you it's one hella of a deal that I've made.
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Very solid, just a few minor dislikes
I have 83,000 miles on the clock at this time. It's been very solid and reliable. It drives pretty well. I have found over the years that the suspension does not feel as solid and connected to the road as it used to. The interior noise can be bad when you have passengers. Overall it's been a very reliable and solid car.