Used 2009 Subaru Impreza Sedan Consumer Reviews
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2009 Subaru Impreza - Poor in Heavy Snow
djarvinen, 12/17/2010
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
29 of 36 people found this review helpful
The 2009 Subaru Impreza we purchased has for the most part been a very good car. It handles well, has plenty of power, controls are well placed, is spacious and has very nice styling. The big problem is handling in heavy snow! The car has a design flaw that allows snow to build up above the front axle which causes heavy vibrations above 45 mph. At 60 mph the vibrations become violent. We were told by the dealership that we would need to use a high pressure hose to clear the snow out (pretty hard to do in inclement weather/conditions).
1,000 of people with engine failure
Tom Williams, 01/19/2016
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
21 of 26 people found this review helpful
I bought this car with 27,000 miles. at around 70,000 miles CEL for misfire in cylinder 4. I couldn't diagnose the problem with hours of testing, part swaps, and research. within 5,000 miles engine blew. The camshaft seals walked themselves out of the block and it dumped all it's oil and blew almost instantly. Called SoA and they claimed that their engine did have a problem with this but because I can't prove I ever changed my oil they wouldn't help me. I, like many other people in this world change my own oil. Never thought about saving receipts, but every 5,000 miles I put mobile 1 full synthetic in. Customer support was terrible, and the dealership actually damaged my car when they diagnosed it. I left it with a cracked bumper and got it back with scratches on the driver side doors, and the bumper was ripped off and laying on the ground. I have never been so disgusted with an automotive manufacturer or a dealership. If you have one of these be sure to document oil changes and get a warranty for it or walk away.
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Love this car!
Meghan , 06/17/2010
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
First "new" car I ever purchased for myself and I absolutely love it! I bought this car mainly for the AWD feature. This car can drive through anything! Its great in the snow. I feel totally safe! Fun to drive, looks sharp, comfortable and roomy. The sound system is awesome! I get a lot of compliments. I have the Dark gray metallic with spoiler.
I love my impreza
ascehp, 02/07/2011
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
7 of 8 people found this review helpful
Ive had this car for a month or so, drive it daily as does my husband who kinda thinks its his. Only have a couple of complaints- Interior space is small, my husband who's 6'3 has to push driverside chair all the way back. My toddler's seat sits pretty close to front, so his footprints are everywhere. also found out about the snow issue prev mentioned. Only found out bc husband likes squishing piles of snow. Once the engine was hot it melted and everything was fine. Got up to 65 before shaking started and it was minor. Still I love my car and so does everyone who gets to drive it!
Good while it lasted!
AshJWilliams, 08/20/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
In the last year I've experienced a complete engine failure due to spun rod bearing (as have 100's of others US and abroad), driven with an intermittent CEL for 2 months and been to the dealership 4 different times to have the problem resolved, I have multiple issues with the factory ECU tuning including a severe occasional hesitation, and about a dozen other manufacturer defects and dealer workmanship issues including a damaged intercooler, multiple components installed improperly, multiple components not installed at all (missing bolts, etc), and the vehicle now makes a wide array of abnormal noises. Was fun to drive when it was running properly, but trust me its not worth the hassle!
rod knocking and spun a ring, at 34k miles
zwzachary87, 03/21/2012
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
13 of 17 people found this review helpful
I have a 2009 Subaru Impreza sedan and it just did the same thing at 34k miles, I was getting on to the highway and my check engine light came on then traction control light and started knocking pulled over checked oil it was bone dry 3 QUARTS LOW, rod in motor started knocking car spun a ring. Subaru is warranting the motor which is a good thing but i am a little worried about how they are talking about fixing my motor eater they will replace the bad parts with new, or they will order a short block for my car and i have a problem with those options because of the fact of you are taking your heads off the motor that has been damaged and putting them on the new short block well i have a problem with this because what is to say the heads were not damaged from not being lubricated and foreign material from shavings in the motor. i have my oil changed every 7500 miles because i run fully synthetic oil and i only have the dealer work on my car. 0n 2/3/12/ car had 29800k miles on it when i had the oil changed and transmission serviced, on 3/15/12 car had 34000k miles on it when it chose to break down and i checked my oil 2 1/2 weeks ago and it was full car has not been tampered with at all please if this has happened to anyone i would really like to know
First New Car!
Karen, 05/04/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
This was my first time buying a new car. I was excited so I researched for months! I checked out and test drove every decently priced compact car I could find. I did TONS of reading on various cars. I settled on the Subaru Impreza, and I am sooo glad I did. It drives so well and I love the blue color. I put in an iPod interface, which I love, because I just cannot drive without music. The thing that struck me the most about the Subaru when I drove it was how nicely it takes corners! I just LOVE owning this car. I have never been a car person but after buying this car I cannot shut up about how much I love it! The fuel econ. was better than expected - around 26-28 mpg city/highway mix.
Satisfied Subaru Owner
O.Sheinman, 12/25/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Sat Radio, Nav (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
As a former owner of an 02 Outback and a structural engineer who designs satellite structures for NASA, I am impressed with the reliability and engineering approach Subaru melds into their vehicles. I traded in my Outback for an 09 WRX 4dr when my pup passed away this year for a sportier vehicle; the WRX is an absolute blast to drive, I added the SPT dual exhaust, short throw shifter, and COBB access port and downpipe. I opted not going with the STI because this car is a commuter and I wanted a smoother ride; also really liked the window and mirror heaters on my Outback and they were not available on the STI. Handling is great and the 0-60 is unbeatable for a car in this price range.
Excellent Car!
Tony, 06/02/2010
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Have not owned the car long but I am incredibly happy with it and surprised about several things with the Impreza. Even without the added power of the WRX or STI version, plenty of pickup on the freeway. And even though Edmunds has listed 22 mpg, I do a lot of freeway driving and have been getting more like 29 mpg. That was a pleasant surprise! Highly recommend Subaru to those that are thinking of buying one.
A Great Small Car Value
rally_racer, 06/15/2010
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Great car for the money. Costs more than other small cars but when you include all the included options it is a bargain. AWD is a must, not only for winter, but makes a big difference in wet conditions. Reliability rock solid and outstanding resale value (previous Subaru owner). Apart from some complains by others, I like the suspension, just enough sport for this 46 year old guy and it soaks up bad pavement very well. Test drove a Civic and Mazda 3 and Illinois roads really did not like those 2 cars. I drive 90% suburban/rural driving (15 mile commute), but even with that short a commute I average about 25-26 from my 5 speed, which is the only way to go.
can't get enough
Subie Lover, 03/15/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
My last car was a Subaru Legacy and it made me fall in love with Subaru. Comparing the '09 Impreza to other cars in its class (Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, etc) there really isn't any competition at all. The symmetrical AWD, power, smoothness of the ride... none of the others even come close to an Impreza. And the Impreza was much less expensive too! It was a no-brainer and I couldn't be happier with the car.
Safe, reliable, and excellent value
loanthony, 05/18/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Only a couple hundred miles on the ODO but so far this Impreza 2.5i has lived up to my expectations. Chassis feels solid and ride quality is great. Handling is top notch and safety of AWD and solid structure gives you peace-of-mind (top safety ratings BTW). The look of the interior and exterior, while subjective I know, are clean and simple. No clutter or weird angles to speak of. I like the added std VDC, full disc brakes, and body- colored mirrors/door handles for 2009. Reliability has not been tested but CR record looks pretty strong. Also like that it's made in Japan. Negs: Interior is too plasticky, fuel economy is sub-par, seat fabric is too retro-fuzzy, and std stereo is not great.
Save money for head gasket
John G, 12/30/2021
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Car handles well in the snow but when buying be prepared to spend 3000 dollars or so on a blown head gasket. May be a good idea to get out ahead of it and replace it before it goes.
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09 WRX 265
noels, 12/04/2008
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I am former Lexus IS 300 owner and wanted a similar sporty sedan. I am utterly impressed with the value this vehicle provides. I like how this package has everything you need without needing to purchase any extras for increased costs. Reasonably priced Japanese built car with amazing performance and decent looks. You cant go wrong and throw in the AWD while your at it. Pound for pound this blows my IS 300 out of the water with much greater value. The interior was nicer in the Lexus IS 300 but thats it.
Another satisfied customer
Phil, 03/16/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is my second WRX. My previous was an '05 wagon. Went into the dealership one day for regular maintenance and walked out with my '09 WRX. The salesman didn't have to work too hard. This is by far loads better than my '05 and that one was very fun to drive. For the price this car has it all. I've got almost 4k on it and not one bad thing I can say. MPG is the same if not better than my '05 that was smaller displacement and less power. I've been averaging 23mpg combined city/highway, with a heavy foot at times, and around 29-30 highway. If you are even thinking about getting one you will not be disappointed. You can't go wrong.
Too much fun!!!
fred kozic, 05/24/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Best money I ever spent on a car. Unreal quickness for the money. Had an 87 grand national I just thought was quick. The wrx would blow its doors off. I average 27 miles per gallon and drive 70 miles a day. All wheel drive and 4 doors to carry my kids with ease. Drove in the snow like a champ. I have only one complaint, the audio system needs help. Very weak. If you need a 4 door sports car I highly recommend a test drive.
Jaw dropping test drive
chris, 06/19/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I looked at way too many new cars before finally test driving this car and instantly forgot about all other cars I was looking at. I bought it the next day. The power and AWD this car has blown me away. It handles like a dream. I have pushed this car in all the weather I can find and have NOT been disappointed. Even when driving this car as calm as I can possibly drive, I still only average around 26mpg, which in the grand scheme of things, isn't too bad for 265hp and 244ft/lb of torque from a small engine. Great car. I highly recommend anyone test drive one who has even thought about the car. Well worth your time.
Fun!
Rich Hopkins, 07/11/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Great small car to drive around town and a blast on the highway too. You will WANT to pass everyone. And you can. Fast throttle response, not as quick as an evo, but you get so much more car and reliability with the Subaru. Only fault: headlights have a very short cutoff: although highbeams are great. You'll enjoy yourself in this car.
I love my subie.
Paul88, 08/06/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my subie. This car handles smoothly as well as aggressively whenever you need. I test drove an BMW 328, Mercedes C300, Honda accord V6 and Mazda speed 3. Besides this car, maybe only BMW is in my consideration. I nail myself on this car according to the performance and never regret. The fuel economy is better than I expect. I am still in the run in period and mixed city/hwy mileage is around 25-27 mpg. I highly recommend this vehicle without hesitation.
Fearsome icy grades? No problem!
liv4mntns, 07/25/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Trucks were sliding all over the road the night I first took a major drive (to pick up relatives at the airport) in my new Impreza. When we stopped for coffee, it was so icy that I could barely keep from falling onto the sidewalk! After my addition of excellent winter tires, the Impreza cruised up that steep, snowy mountain road as if we were out for a summer picnic. Note to anyone else driving on poorly lit two-lane roads: the optional fog lights are worth every cent in a snowstorm with oncoming traffic! Even though it's not why I bought it, I can't help loving the Impreza's amazing cornering abilities; it turns any twisting road into a fun driving experience.
Great Car
rkouvo, 08/11/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I don't know where the EPA got their numbers from, I do mostly city driving and am averaging 28.5mpg on the first two tanks of gas, the motor isn't even broken in yet, I'm sure to get over 30mpg. It's a fun car to drive, definitely good for commuting, the only downside is the amount of wind and road noise along with some rattling of the hard plastic interior. I can't wait for some snow to see how the all wheel drive holds up though, if it's anything like my 92 suby was, it should be a lot of fun. I'd recommend this car to anyone, the 09 impreza has a noticeable amount of more interior space which is great! A+
Tons of fun for the money...
DGman, 08/25/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I traded my 2004 WRX for a 2009 model year. This is a HUGE upgrade all around. The 2009 has better performance, better comfort, better ride, and better accessories. I optioned for the SPT Catback exhaust system. It really gives the car a nice note. The drone at interstate speeds is a little much. Driving around town, though, it is an awesome throaty growl. The interior space in this model year is loads more than the 2004. My 04 had barely usable rear seats. I love the split fold down rear seats. This is a FUN car. Car and driver tested 0-60 in 4.7 and 1/4 mile 13.5. Those times are on par with the 2010 Mustang GT except you get AWD and better MPG.
Love it...and all our other Subaru's
Bob Mallon, 08/26/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Picked up this Paprika Red Premium Edition 5-speed a couple of days after buying a 2010 Forester for my wife. Very nice driving, handling and shifting car. Can't beat the deal that I got ($3,000 off sticker and 0% financing). Very happy with the equipment and features for the price. They sure know how to build them at the Subaru Factory in Japan.
Awesome performance
Jerry, 10/01/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Quick, very quick 0-60, and lots of torque at highway speeds. One car mag says 4.7 secs 0-60 and that's not far off, which puts it in a league way above its price. Gas mileage about 24- 25 highway when you can keep your foot out of turbo, otherwise 21-22. AWD grip and handling superb even though the car mags say it is a little soft. Had it since March, got 7K miles on it and have loved every minute.
Fun, Fun, Fun
DCB, 12/04/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl Turbo 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
So glad a waited for the 09's. This car is safe, very quick, pretty solidly built, awd, fun to drive/look at, manual, comfortable even on 7 hour drives, and considering all this, it gets pretty good mileage. As some people have noted, Car and Driver rated this 0-60 mph in 47, while Road and Track did it in 5.1 These numbers are competitive with cars more than twice the price. I get 23 mpg around town, and 27/28 on the highway @ 70. I have gotten a lot of compliments, especially about the Dark Grey Metallic color. There are audio/performance upgrades in the future, but this car is phenomenal already. I recommend it to everyone! Take one for a drive if you are remotely considering one.
Great Car! I LOVE IT!
Lindsay, 10/19/2010
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I drive 100 miles round trip per day in my car for work. I absolutely love this car! It's great on gas, controls are extremely convenient, its fast. The only reason I gave this car a 9 for interior design are two reasons. I dislike the color of the seats because they are too light for my taste. I wear jeans a lot. none are new and my seats have a blue tint from getting in and out. The other reason is the the stereo area has worn a little above the AUX button... not sure why, but it seems the rubber coating is peeling a bit. I love that you can put it to manual when it snows. I feel like I have complete control over the car. I highly recommend it to anyone!
reliable and good-looking
m9mk10, 08/16/2012
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
2 of 5 people found this review helpful
Fun car, reliable in bad weather, nice to look at, easy to drive
Agile, fun-to-drive, and a great value!
my1stSubaru, 06/30/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Extremely fun to drive with amazing handling and the surprisingly spirited engine makes me smile. I feel safe, it's reliable and think it's worth it to trade some gas mileage for superior road holding, especially in hazardous driving conditions (snow and rain). Simple, but spacious interior and tremendous trunk capacity. It makes it easy to become a Subaru enthusiast!
2009 Subaru Impreza - Not WRX (so no law suits)
Cjane, 11/05/2019
updated 11/06/2020
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 2 people found this review helpful
Oil burner with major engine issue - mechanic supposedly fixed to the tune of $2300 - blew a piston after four weeks. This thing is going to the junk yard - I've been the only owner - I'll never own another and that makes me sad, but I loved this car in the snow.
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I paid too much
MIA, 03/23/2018
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 3 people found this review helpful
Got this in 2012. Def paid too much. After a yr the sound system wasn't as good as it first was. The compass on the rear view mirror went out after a yr, only way to fix it is to replace the whole mirror. The seats are cloth but not terribly comfortable. I have sciatica issues and this car didnt help me. Acceleration is hard at times esp. Uphill. Drives fine. City mpg is 22-24. Hway is 27-30 depending on distance.
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First Subaru
Aaron, 01/15/2009
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD (2.5L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned many cars in the past. My previous car was a Lexus ES300. I do have to comment that I do not miss my Lexus one bit. The Impreza 2.5i is fun to drive, responsive, sporty, and economical. I live in the midwest, where we get our fair share of ice and snow. I have owned my Subaru for 5 days now, and can safely go places I never could go before in my Lexus. For a base model, it has a great build quality, there are plenty of features, it is much quieter on the road than the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla or Honda Civic, and when you factor in the AWD it becomes a no brainer.
Love it, lots of compliments.
Karen, 12/23/2019
2009 Subaru Impreza 2.5i 4dr Sedan AWD w/Premium Package (2.5L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Has 6 CD Player and Moon Roof
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