Used 2006 Subaru Impreza Consumer Reviews
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I Love My Subie!--Greeley, CO
W O W ! This is a great car for the money. Compared to other 4 door sedans under $20,000 this one knocks the doors off the competition. This car is so practical and fun and well its a great car. I hope that if you are looking for a car that you definitely consider Subaru. By the way I get 21 city & 26 hwy, so decent gas mileage also especially considering it is an automatic and has AWD.
Is there anything this car can't do?
Before this car I had a 2004 Subaru WRX. The car was modded to 340whp. I got tired of the suspension, brakes, and tranny so I decided to upgrade to an STI. Stock, I know this thing isn't as fast as my WRX, but it feels so much quicker, so much smoother, so much more nimble. The transmission is built like a tank and so smooth, especially with a short throw shifter. Power delivery is linear and there is little to no turbo lag. The brakes are insane and have an amazing bite to them. Buying this car was the best decision I've ever made.
- WRX STi Sedan w/Silver-Painted WheelsMSRP: $18,995157 mi away
- WRX WagonMSRP: $10,9915 mi away
- WRX SedanMSRP: $10,995157 mi away
Roof Rack
When I purchased my 2006 Outback Sport it made a whistling noise when I drove over 40 mph. I took it back to the dealer's shop and was told no problem. They would put a diffuser in the rack and it would take care of the whistle. I went back to pick up the vehicle and as soon as I got up to 40 mph it still whistled. I went back to the shop they told me to bring it back the next day. When I went back they told me Subaru had made and error in the design and as soon as it was fixed they would call me. Three months laster I called and was told by the service department that their was no fix for the problem.
Why target an SUV when you have Subaru?
If you're driving an SUV, I can already feel your pain at the pump. My last vehicle was a Jeep Wrangler and I found it was fun however seriously lacking in day-to-day needs. Subie's are agile, great performers off and on road, comfortable, stylish, piratical, safe ... the list goes on. And the best part is I average about 26 mpg which is excellent for an AWD sport wagon. I test drove the Mazda 3 hatch and the Toyota Corolla S. Both came close, however, the Impreza walks all over them.
TR is disappointing
For 23k the TR WRX is a very fast car. 0-60 in approximately 6 seconds. It's very fun to drive and I love all of the attention I get while driving it. If i had the chance to buy it all over again...I would upgrade to a Limited. I don't think I have enough love to spend $30k on an STi. I'd rather own a BMW if I were to spend $30k+.
No worries mate
No problems at all so far. It has been driven 40,000 miles and pulled (behind RV) another 10,000. All 4 tires just replaced, besides that, nothing but oil changes. Never below 25 MPG and only a couple of times above 30 MPG - good but not FANTASTIC.
Best Value in AWD
I love my Subie. I drove trucks for years, this was my first Subaru, it's so much nicer to drive and gets much better MPG. I get 23-25 city, and 27- 28 highway. It has a great compromise between power and economy. I can tow and launch my jetskis at the beach at Pismo, then haul up snow covered roads to ski on a powder day. No problems in 42,000 miles at all. I do more with my little Impreza that most people will ever do with their gas guzzling, boring and hard to drive SUVs. It makes me want to drive fast and race or jump it. Its rally car roots really show through.
Subaru WRX STi
I bought the WRX STi a few weeks ago and I can tell you that this car certainly lives up to its name. I have had absolutely no problems with it. I live in the mountains of southern California where there are a lot of windy and hilly roads, which make this car all the more fun to have. It never has a problem climbing any hill. It accelerates from 0-60 in about 5 seconds and the handling ability is unbelievable. The hood scoop and spoiler never rattle around as I had read in some reviews, and also the turbo lag isn't that bad; in fact the low end torque on the STi is better than my dad's Porsche 911 Turbo which has 355hp. The 6 disc in-dash CD changer is of excellent quality.
Great car
Take my review with perspective. A 10 in any category is outstanding. For instance, a 10 in performance would be something with Corvette Z06, or better, performance. A 10 in comfort might be a SL500 or Maybach, and a 10 in fuel economy a Prius. With that in mind this is a great vehicle. I moved from a '95 M3 to this vehicle and, within context, am happier about my transportation. The Subaru Outback Sport SE is relatively nimble, efficient and comfortable. It is also very utilitarian by nature and provides a great compromise to those not seeking performance, utility, versatility, and reliability. All in all great car.
Great buy!
I bought this car after researching it for months. It lived up to what I had read. Great handling, outstanding performance, and excellent dependability. Plus the AWD and safety ratings made the WRX a great fit for me. I enjoy also being able to get a high performance vehicle in an automatic. Not all of us want to take it to the track every weekend, even though it might be capable of that, but for those of us who drive in the city, I enjoy the easy drive of the auto. Plus having performance, styling, and 4 doors is great.
Don't buy this car!!!
Soon after purchase of this vehicle, I noticed that the paint degraded wherever bird droppings were, even after a few days. My car is midnight blue. I have attempted to remedy this through my dealership for over one year without resolution. I have not had this problem with my Toyota, Ford or Volvo. In forty years of owning cars I have not encountered this problem, nor such an unsatisfactory response from a company. It is a cute car and fun to drive, but don't be tempted.
Wish I bought a Honda Again
Only 2000 miles on the clock and I already need the rear end rebuilt. Not very impressed since this is the first Subaru I bought, considering I've had 8 Hondas with no problems.
My car went boom
I buy cars to race and to tune them. I have worked on Lambo's to Kia's. My brother owns a shop in Delaware where I do all of my work and dyno tuning. I was very surprised when then engine practically blew up with minor tuning (nothing internal and factory turbo). After talking with other people who have tried this seems to be a common occurrence. My suggestion... buy the car if you want a fairly quick car that is going to be left stock. You want to tune your car and make it special to you...buy something else.
Fun little critter...
I have barely had the WRX Wagon long enough to break it in. The mix of strong performance, great handling, full time all wheel drive, large brakes, lots of front seat head room, adequate back seat room for two, a wagon tail end (with no sacrifice to handling or speed) is very attractive for a car priced in the low to mid-twenties. The new 2.5L motor gives better around town drivability than the previous motor and gives great 'get out of my way' acceleration. ;-)
FUN 2 DRIVE
I have wanted a WRX for some time now, but could not afford one. Subaru offered a sweet lease deal on the 2.5i that we couldn't pass up. $199 a month with NO money down (4yr. lease). It turned out to be a really fun car to drive. Felt sorry for the salesman during my test drive. He had to hang on tight a couple of times. But hey, it was MY test drive! Great build quality.
Great Car
This is my first Subaru. I was an all Honda guy so I decided to step it up with a Subaru. Great car. Nice design inside and out. Nice and powerful, wish it got better MPG's though
Subaru WRX
I drive a 2005 WRX, awesome car! AWD handling, extreme acceleration, and very solid for a small car.
Go drive it!
This is an awesome car. Looked at the Mazda 3, Hyundai Tiburon, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Ford Focus, and more. The Impreza is in a class by itself, and sells for about the same price as the others given the amount of standard options. Very safe car with AWD for the winter season and a blast to drive. I can't say enough good things about it. Anyone considering a sedan for under $20K needs to check this out. Keep in mind the mechanical advantage over the competition (ie: AWD and the boxer engine).
Awesome Car!
I bought this car a month ago, and I love it even more now that when I bought it. It hauls and handles like a champ. It is just as sure footed in the rain too. The stock stereo and speakers are pretty wimpy, but other than that, this car is unbelievable!
Fun and Practical
Traded a Loaded Dodge Dakota AWD for this to save gas and for added longevity. This is like driving an adult go-cart, with a great stereo. Average 22mpg mixed driving with a lead foot(80-85 hwy). Also I find the seats very comfortable; however no long distance drives yet. And this car handles all weather very well.
Great Car!
This was my first ever "brand new" car, and I have had an awful lot of fun driving it. It's zippy, and sporty, and the 6 speaker sound system really rocks! There have been times when the engine is so quiet I've forgotten the car is still running. My dog loves this car too! I typically drive with only the 40% backseat in place, so he gets a lot of space.
Very Fun & Practical
I love to drive my WRX. It handles great, and the wagon has enough room to make runs to the hardware store. Main complaint is the slight turbo lag. Otherwise the car is great for roadtrips and is built rock solid.
Subaru...Love it!
I traded my VW Golf for the Impreza 2.5i sedan. I wanted the WRX but can't swing the cash. For the money, the Impreza 2.5i is outstanding. You can really feel the 170 HP because the car is so light. The boxer engine shifts smooth as silk. The AWD is also excellent. This car handles very well for its class and feels super solid when driving. it really is a blast to drive. I have no trouble getting on the gas at 60mph to blow by someone on the highway, the torque and HP are great. I ask for the power and it's there! You really couldn't get a better car for the money.
2006 Impreza
This is a hot little car. The get up and go is fabulous. The ride is smooth and easy. The controls are very ergonomically situated.
Finally
I moved to the US 2 years ago and have bought 7 cars since. A Porsche 911 was impressive, a 2006 GTi lasted 3 months, various other boring stuff. An '05 Legacy gave me a hint of what I really needed. The STi is a average motorwar car, it uses more fuel than I expected. It's also everything a sports car should be, effective, fun, fast and makes you want to get in and drive just for the joy of it. Unlike the 911 you don't need to worry all the time, SUVs don't cut you off for fun, you just sit in your blue and pink world and smile at the sheer joy of a sorted chassis and engine that sounds like its CD would go platinum. As for when the snow comes. LOVE IT.
Built to get you anywhere, anytime.
Leasing the car for $270/mo. Planning a trip of 2000 miles through Canada with 3 other people. Great for hauling the stuff that won't fit in my Impreza sedan. Have cargo basket for roof rack and am planning for a hitch and aluminum cargo carrier for the back.
Best By Far
I was looking at buying a new car and really never thought of the Subaru WRX. I actually went to the dealership on a random trip and test drove the WRX. I fell in love and quickly bought it afterwards. Driving it is the most fun I have had in a car. The larger engine cuts down on lag from the turbo and sometimes the acceleration can get away from you. The interior is great, and very easy to navigate, and the exterior looks amazing. I would recommend this car to anyone.
BOXER GOES WILD
I was looking for an 05 used but #1, I couldn't find one locally and #2, was concerned with previous treatment such a car might receive. So I had pretty much given up the idea. Then I test drove a used 06. WOW I just could not believe what I was doing with this car. My family has owned Subes for 20 years and none of them were any thing like this. I just could not contain my enthusiasm. I drove past the dealership twice before the salesman made me turn in, it was 3 hours later though. We couldn't agree on price so I was left yearning for that smile the STi plastered on my face. Then I bought a new black STi. As my wife says "I love my car"
All around driving enjoyment
I enjoy driving this car. We travel between Canada and Texas twice a year so our driving entails two very long high speed trips and then mostly driving around town. Excellent car for both driving types. Smooth, good cornering, pretty quiet, good gas mileage. Seats could be more comfortable. Front spoiler scrapes easily. As mentioned previously, first gear acceleration is not adequate unless rpm is high prior to clutch engagement. Some sign of early interior wear. First gear jerky at low speed.
Glad That We Selected This Vehicle
After what seemed to be an endless search for a new vehicle we purchased a 2006 Outback Sport with a 5 speed manual transmission. We have been driving it for several weeks and like it better all the time. The fuel economy has been better than we had expected. So far, the worst has been 26.5 mpg and the best 29.6 mpg. This has been in our normal day-to-day driving and does not include any long highway trips. Compared to the new cars that we have owned in the past, the build quality is excellent. We have noticed only one small problem, a defective seam in one tail light unit which allows water to enter while going through the car wash. To drive it is to enjoy it.
A better STi
As the happy owner of a 2004 STi, I was blown away with the new front end design of the 2006 model. In no time I had a 2006 Blue STi with gold wheels. This is one of the most amazing cars on the road. Power is impressive over 3000 rpm, but some slight turbo lag is evident below this range. But once the turbo is on boost, look out, you will be hitting redline before you know it. What's even more impressive about this car is its handling and braking. I regularly enter corners at speeds my mind is telling me are too fast, but the car grips without protest. This is truly one of the most forgiving performance cars I've driven. And it stops as well as it goes. Let's just say the brakes are awesome.
Yeah, this car Rocks!
This car drives awesome! If you are looking for something that handles well on the highway AND rougher dirt roads, gets great gas mileage and is an affordable vehicle, this is a sweet deal. I have already driven it on some pretty gnarly dirt roads in Colorado and it held up great. This car should get you almost anywhere there is some kind of road.
Flawless AWD
This is a great multi purpose car for a young couple or older folks without children and also for you single folks too. For '06 the more powerful engine mated to the automatic is perfect. From a stop this car is a little rocket, and passing at highway speeds is not a problem. This car comes with all the safety features STANDARD! You dont have to pay extra for side airbags or antilock brakes. And to having a bullet proof AWD system is great. The front seats are fairly comfortable but the back seats are better suited for children. Ride and handling are great for what ever kind of driving you do. And the new projector headlights are awesome for nighttime visibility.
Muscle Car Convertee
I needed to face the reality of a 100 mile round trip commute in New England weather. My aging Ford Ranger (winter) and Mustang GT (summer) had both served me well, but with gas prices, it was time to find a vehicle that could serve my year-round needs and my need for speed, as well. The 2006 WRX Limited is the perfect combination of power, agility,and handling. Subaru owners I have spoken with attest that these cars are very capable in the snow, and don't have the gas guzzling traits of SUV's. I have 600 miles on it in one week, and have seen 28 mpg highway, and 24 mpg with lots of around-town mixed in. As a lifelong GMC and American muscle fan, I am extremely impressed. A-1 quality!
Impreza 2.5 I hatchback, manual
I bought this as a "micro SUV" -- the 2006 RAV4 had only an automatic and was $4000 more. Handling is great; the Impreza moves confidently through snow and heavy rains on hilly roads. With a roof rack, transport capacity is terrific. With some planning, and multiple trips, I can move most the loads that a pickup can take. I tow a 1500 pound camper (towing capacity is 2400 lbs -- largest in this group). The one drawback is lower MPG. I am getting mid 20s. My previous car was a 96 Saturn sedan, which was getting in the mid 30s, but did not have the power, or handling in snow.
Japanese Car Convert
After considering the 2006 Civic, Jetta, Mazda3, and Beetle, I picked this Subaru for its absolute fun to drive qualities. I had more fun than I've had in a long time zipping around corners in this car. The gas mileage is better than EPA posts; I get 28 and 34 mpg. The transmission is wonderful, and the car looks snazzy and feels durable and well built. I highly recommend this vehicle to anyone looking for a unique, fun to drive, affordable, and reliable economy car.
Fast Car
I looked at various cars: '05 Mustang GT, '06 BMW 3 series, Mazda 6. I drove the '05 WRX and liked it. When I drove the '06, it was love at first drive. Torque Monster! Love the motor! On the tollway, in 5th gear at 2500 rpm, no need to downshift - goose it and away you go. This is not a rubber band on/off motor. I like the new look; the body still is a bit dated looking to my eyes. The front wheels seem set back too far. I have yet to find the "let go" limits in this car. I will need some time in a big empty parking lot because it has a tenacious grip on the road. Very neutral feeling, I believe when it does let go it will slide on all fours instead of over or understeering. Happy so far.
Good Car
I like the size of this car because it fits perfectly in my small garage in San Francisco. Very powerful (you will noticed the difference from Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic). However would suggest to manufacturer to place a lock on the trunk door and have additional light in front. My new car had auto door lock problem (worked intermittently) but was fixed by the dealer satisfactorily. I've had it for over 2 months and love it.
Honda to Subaru, Never going back
I had a '99 Honda Civic Si for the past 3 years. It was a great car and fun to drive but it was getting long in the tooth. This WRX is wonderful. The 2006 is much nicer than the 2005. I was sold on the '06 the second I drove it. Drive both the '05 and '06 before you buy. Those few numbers difference in the performance make a huge difference. If you can live with the front end it will grow on you and it is a much nicer car than the 2005 WRX.
2006 Subaru Impreza WRX TR
This is my daily driver and I couldn't ask for a better, more reliable vehicle. Dependable in all weather, fun to just cruise or get to where you need to be in a hurry. MPG are respectable depending on driving style and the car is very versatile. I own several motorcycles so I threw a hitch on and due to the great torque, tow them to the track with no issues, or attach a mountain bike hauler into the receiver and head into the mountains. This car continues to make me smile after more than two years of ownership!!
Great Little Car
Got this used with 63k miles on it after losing my 2006 Vibe in a car accident. So far I am enjoying my purchase. My biggest gripe is that the back seat does not fold down but that was not enough to be a deal breaker for me. I just hate putting a trunk-mounted bike rack on the car. But it is a solid car. Very little road noise. Very good acceleration. Decent on gas but I knew it would not be great with the AWD. I would buy a Subaru again in a heartbeat but I am still nervous from buying it from a used car lot and not a Subaru dealer. Wish me luck.
LOVE it!
I just bought this car and I LOVE it. It drives so smooth, the seats are comfortable and the build is great. It's the perfect balance of sports car and comfy sedan. I'm so excited to drive it. I got the Limited and the leather is very nice. Love the heated seats. ;)
my 2006 STi "qwksti"
This is a great sports car, and for the money you can't do much better. Looks are great, and I love the new 06 front end. And with the 06 improved DCCD is tied in with the steering. Better suspension, lower than the 05, smaller front scoop, smaller rear wing (1/2 inch I think) a second rear wing added, liquid filled engine mounts, new ground effects body styling, rear diffuser, standard 6 CD in dash CD player, 6 speakers with amp and sub, intercooler sprayer, 17' wheels, 2.5L 300hp @ 6k rpm, 300 torque @ 4k rpm, adjustable HID head lights, keyless entry. This is an amazing sports car. Very fast, the AWD is amazing, this car is well built, sturdy, solid, tight, lots of fun.
First new car
Fun to drive. Looks great. Nice fit and finish. Many features standard. Add a spoiler and mud guards and the car is ready to go. Waiting for snow to test out the AWD.
Exhilarating Fun Drive!
I love turbocharged cars and for years was a loyal Saab owner, until GM diluted the brand. I wanted a turbocharged car that would stand out from the pack and deliver power, superb handling and excitement. The STi gives all of that and more; once I got used to the higher revving engine, this car is the most fun I've ever had. Performance off the line and handling through twisty mountain roads is tremendous; the Sube feels like it's on rails and I've yet to notice any body roll. Being European, I love the WRX's stiff suspension, which combines with the super precise steering and available power to provide very nimble handling and a real fun drive! I don't miss my Saab 9-3 Viggen at all!
2006 2.5i - 60,000 miles in.
I have now had this car nearly 4 years of basically trouble free ownership. It has been a great commuter car. The AWD has been great in the Michigan winters, and the car has plenty of power even being a four cylinder. Gas mileage has averaged 22-24 mpg. This is our 2nd Subaru and has worked out well - enough so that we bought a 2010 forester last year. Just had first maintenance done for a cost of $900 - not bad for 4 years and 60,000 miles.
2006 Subaru WRX Best Road Car Ever
I've had the Subaru 2006 WRX for 3000 miles. It's much faster then expressed via various web sites. Not much on the road can touch it. Easy handling. Kinda' drives itself. Power, handling, easy to control the car, decent mileage and just OH so much fun to drive. I've driven Mustangs and other power cars, only thing better then the WRX is the WRX STi!
Sweet ride
I never really thought of getting a WRX. I looked into getting a Mazdaspeed 6 and a Lancer Evo but when the price got out of hand I started looking into it. For the money it's an awesome car. Not only is it fun to drive, the handling is awesome.
Survival among the SUV's
I needed a vehicle that would not be run off the single open lane on the NY Thruway during snowstorms. My FWD VW Golf was inadequate, and did not want to buy an SUV. Settled on the AWD Subaru Impreza and have not looked back. Good power with the stickshift; 25 mpg on daily commute; some 28 mpg racing up from NJ to Vermont. Had more occasion to drive through rain and mud than through snow this winter, though - handled all equally magnificently. A blast to drive, indeed! Good heater the few cold days we had. Accessories of foglights, trailer hitch, and ski rack have come in useful - most everything else already built in! Excellent websites exist for all kinds of Subaru-related info.
Best car I have ever had
The STi is the perfect car for Idaho, its fun to drive in the summer and can go anywhere in the winter.