BUYER’S GUIDE

Subaru Impreza Review

The rallying icon turned road going hero, the original first-generation Subaru Impreza is fast living up to its ‘classic’ description…

What is the Subaru Impreza?

This guide covers the Subaru Impreza GC/GF, which is the first generation of the Impreza, built between 1992 and 2000.

Available as a saloon (GC) and estate (GF), it established Subaru’s reputation for combining turbocharged boxer engines with permanent all-wheel drive. It also formed the basis of the World Rally Championship cars driven by Colin McRae, Carlos Sainz, and Richard Burns.

Today, the GC/GF offers a raw, analogue driving experience that later Imprezas gradually softened. Standard 1.6-, 1.8- and 2.0-litre models are dependable classics, while the Turbo 2000, WRX, STI, P1 and 22B have become highly collectible performance cars. Most have now seen enthusiastic ownership, so originality, service history and structural condition are far more important than mileage alone.

When was the Subaru Impreza produced?

The first-generation Subaru Impreza entered production in 1992 and remained in production until 2000, when it was replaced by the second-generation GD/GG Impreza.

During its eight-year production run, Subaru offered numerous body styles and engine options, culminating in legendary models including the WRX STI, UK Turbo 2000, limited-edition P1 and the ultra-rare 22B STI.

How many Subaru Imprezas were produced, and where were they made?

Subaru has never published a definitive production figure for the entire first-generation Impreza range. Production across all GC and GF variants is generally estimated at well over one million vehicles worldwide between 1992 and 2000.

Most Imprezas were built at Subaru’s Gunma manufacturing plant in Ōta, Gunma Prefecture, Japan. UK Turbo 2000s, WRXs, STIs, the P1 and 22B were all Japanese-built before being imported or officially supplied to their respective markets.

What changes were made to Subaru Impreza over the years?

The Impreza evolved steadily throughout its production life. Early cars featured simple interiors and relatively modest naturally aspirated engines, while the arrival of the WRX introduced Subaru’s turbocharged 2.0-litre EJ20 boxer engine and permanent all-wheel drive.

Facelifts in 1996 and 1998 brought revised headlights, bumpers, interior improvements and chassis refinements. The WRX STI range gained progressively stronger engines, improved turbochargers, closer-ratio gearboxes and driver-controlled centre differentials on later models.

UK buyers saw the arrival of the Turbo 2000 in 1994 and the acclaimed P1 in 2000, developed with Prodrive specifically for British roads. The ultra-rare 22B STI, built in 1998 to celebrate Subaru’s World Rally Championship success, has become one of the most valuable Japanese performance cars ever produced.

What are the common problems with Subaru Impreza?

Rust is becoming the biggest issue on surviving GC/GF cars. Rear wheelarches, rear suspension mounting points, sills, rear subframes and front chassis rails deserve close inspection.

Mechanically, the EJ-series boxer engine is strong when maintained correctly, but neglected cars can suffer from worn big-end bearings, piston slap, oil leaks, head gasket failure on some naturally aspirated engines, worn turbochargers and poor-quality engine rebuilds. Modified cars need particularly careful inspection, as high boost levels and poor mapping can significantly shorten engine life.

Gearboxes, differentials and clutches are generally robust but expensive to replace if abused. Many cars have lived hard lives, so accident damage, poor repairs and heavily modified suspension should all be viewed with caution.

What should people look for when buying a Subaru Impreza?

Prioritise originality and maintenance history. A standard or sympathetically modified car with documented servicing is usually a better purchase than a heavily modified example with little paperwork.

Inspect the underside carefully for corrosion, accident repairs and poor welding. Confirm cambelt replacement history, look for evidence of regular oil changes and ensure the engine starts cleanly without excessive smoke or knocking.

Turbocharged cars should build boost smoothly, while the gearbox should engage gears positively without crunching. A specialist pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended, particularly for WRX, STI, P1 and 22B models.

Where does the Subaru Impreza tend to rust?

Rust most commonly affects the rear wheelarches, sills, rear suspension turrets, rear subframe mounting points, front chassis rails, floorpan and boot floor. Check around the fuel filler neck, front wings, door bottoms and windscreen surrounds too.

Japanese imports can initially appear cleaner underneath than UK-supplied cars, but many are now over 25 years old and require just as much careful inspection. Fresh underseal should always be treated cautiously unless supported by photographic evidence of the repairs underneath.

Common corrosive areas on the Subaru Impreza

Door edges

Rear arches

Underbody - all areas

Subaru Impreza Checklist

Following its launch in its home market in 1992, the Impreza arrived in the UK in 1994 topped with a 211PS (155kW) Turbo 2000 and option of four-door estate or five-door estate bodies; around the same time the first WRX STi launched in Japan
By the mid-90s the Japanese craze for endless special editions was in full swing, the base spec WRX with 260PS (192kW), the WRX STi with its blueprinted ‘red-top’ motor taking this to the 280PS (206kW) cap and Type RA versions of both stripped back rally-inspired versions
All Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) versions of the above have particular modifications, ranging from suspension to gearing, different turbos, driver-adjustable centre differentials, various bodykits and more
JDM-only two-door Type R launched with the STi Version III in 1996
Back in the UK, various special editions came and went, including the desirable Series McRae, Catalunya and later RB5
A significant facelift for the 1997 model year brought bigger brakes, a revised interior, different wheel designs and more – look for the switch from the horizontal, slatted grille and to the more prominent ‘snout’ design
Two-door 22B version originally launched in Japan in 1998 with a wide-arch body evoking the WRC car of the time, 2.2-litre engine and significantly upgraded brakes and suspension – 16 officially imported to the UK with Prodrive modifications, others have since followed and genuine cars are now serious six-figure collectables
A good number of JDM cars were imported to the UK, this being the only way to score a genuine WRX or STi with this generation of Impreza
Do your research before committing the extra money for one of these cars, given the endless detail differences between them and fact many were modified before leaving Japan and then again on arrival in the UK – STi badges do not necessarily an STi make!
Finding an Impreza that’s not been modified in one way or another will be near impossible – a louder exhaust from a quality supplier like Prodrive or Hayward and Scott is fine and a popular upgrade at the time but a ‘bean tin’ silencer with a rough cut-out in the back bumper to accommodate it is a warning sign to look closely at every last component
Engine upgrades also hugely popular and unlock easy power gains but vary hugely in the quality of parts, work and calibration; there is a huge amount of knowledge and expertise out there but not everyone is willing to pay for it so check history for evidence of work by respected specialists
An almost apologetic cough on start-up is a Subaru signature but the engine should fire straight away and settle to a smooth idle – beware smoke, steam or nasty knocking, the latter suggestive of the dreaded ‘piston slap’ or failing big-ends known to afflict post-facelift UK cars in particular
Evidence of regular servicing and adherence to intervals for belt replacements and the like is a must – given the cost of upkeep many owners will have skimped at some point in the car’s life so a good history file is worth its weight in gold
Rust is a killer, especially on less well-protected JDM imports – obvious spots like arches and door edges will be a likely signifier of worse in more serious structural areas
Given many have led hard lives check for the usual signs of crash damage
Underseal will often have been applied to JDM imports to protect against UK salt and is a sensible precaution but when looking under the car be suspicious of thick coatings of crudely applied Waxoyl or similar, given what horrors could be hidden beneath
Huge interchangeability of parts both OEM and aftermarket is a blessing and a curse, meaning the chances of finding a truly original classic Impreza are near zero
Flipside of this is a decent supply of second-hand parts and panels can freshen up or repair any project car for reasonable cost

How easy is it to get hold of parts for the Subaru Impreza?

Mechanical parts remain widely available thanks to excellent specialist support and the popularity of the EJ engine. Subaru specialists, aftermarket suppliers and breakers provide most service items, suspension components and drivetrain parts. Genuine body panels, interior trim and P1- or 22B-specific components are becoming harder to source and can be expensive.

How Does It Drive?

With seemingly infinite varieties and the popularity of modifications, upgrades, and other tweaks, it could seem hard to drill down to the Impreza’s core attributes. Thankfully, there are certain common characteristics, all underscored by one of the most iconic exhaust notes in mainstream motoring culture. Compact and light by modern standards, the boxer engine means a very low scuttle for excellent forward visibility.

While mechanically nose-heavy and, in varying degrees, prone to turn-in understeer, once you get an Impreza pointing the way you want it your options are many and varied, the four-wheel drive powertrain giving agility and throttle adjustability in all weathers. The positive, short-throw gearbox and nicely mechanical feel to steering and pedals are all confidence inspiring as well, the engine somewhat laggy in standard form but the rush of boost with the characteristic whistle on top of the boxer burble all adding up to a driving experience as charismatic as it is potent.

What’s good about the Subaru Impreza?

If not conventionally beautiful, the Impreza has a clean, purposeful look that’s utterly unique and looks better with age. Characterful touches like the bonnet-top scoop for the intercooler, the vented front valance and the frameless doors are all typical of Subaru’s single-minded and quirky approach. The compact size also feels perfect for the kind of twisty, narrow B-roads a rally-inspired car like this seems built for, while excellent visibility from the slim pillars adds to your confidence.

Four-door practicality in saloon form and the option of the distinctive Sports Wagon estate mean it’s a modern classic you can use, while the all-weather performance that Subaru has always excelled at makes it car built for rainy days and foul weather. Mainly, though, it’s the charisma, the sound and the associations with one of rallying’s most iconic eras that make the Impreza such a worthy hero car.

What’s bad about the Subaru Impreza?

There were two sides to the Impreza’s popularity back in the day, the less appealing one being its adoption by a mod-crazed, boy racer crowd that came to characterise a certain yobbish image of loud exhausts, big mudflaps, and hissing dump valves on the local High Street. Nothing new in that of course, given a previous generation had done just the same with loudly tuned Ford Escorts in celebration of the rallying exploits of Vatanen, Clark et al.

But as fashions changed and Imprezas bottomed out into borderline banger status, more and more succumbed to those attracted more for the cheap thrills than rallying provenance, meaning many suffered with owners more interested in dodgy bodykits and easy-win power upgrades than they were proper maintenance. The slightly tinny construction was, meanwhile, characteristic of Japanese cars of the era, and rust inevitably accounts for many that didn’t blow up after one too many dodgy engine tweaks or McRae’d through a hedge.

What do people love about Subaru Impreza?

Owners love the GC/GF because it feels authentic. The turbocharged boxer engine delivers a distinctive soundtrack, while the permanent all-wheel-drive system provides enormous confidence on wet or uneven roads.

The steering is direct, visibility is excellent and the car feels remarkably light compared with modern performance cars. Even today, few four-wheel-drive saloons deliver the same sense of involvement.

Its motorsport heritage is another huge attraction. Colin McRae’s World Rally Championship success made the Impreza an icon, and that connection remains a major part of its appeal. Combined with a strong enthusiast community and good specialist support, the GC/GF continues to attract drivers looking for a genuinely engaging modern classic.

How much does it cost to insure a Subaru Impreza?

There’s no single price for classic car insurance on a Subaru Impreza, since a whole host of factors will influence the price you pay.

You can give our team of experts a call on 01243 913 333 to see how we can tailor your Subaru Impreza insurance to you and your vehicle, or you can get a quote online now.

A standard naturally aspirated Impreza is generally less expensive to insure than a WRX, Turbo 2000 or STI. Premiums depend on the driver’s age, postcode, agreed value, mileage, storage and claims history.

Condition plays a significant role because values for original Turbo 2000s, P1s and STIs have risen sharply. Well-restored cars often justify agreed-value policies.

Likewise, how the car is used matters: limited-mileage leisure driving and secure garaging may reduce costs, while daily commuting, business use, track days or rally events are likely to increase them. Specialist classic insurance is often the best option for cherished examples.

Is specialist classic car insurance a good idea for the Subaru Impreza?

Yes, especially since early Imprezas have become recognised modern classics, particularly Turbo 2000, WRX STI, P1 and 22B models. Specialist insurance from Goodwood Classic Solutions can offer agreed value, discounts from limited mileage cover, and protection for declared modifications that standard insurance may not provide.

Give our team a call on 01243 913 333 to find out how much we can save you on insuring your Impreza, or get a quote online now.

What are the most popular specs for the Impreza?

The UK Turbo 2000 remains one of the most popular models because it combines strong performance with relative affordability and widespread specialist support.

Japanese-market WRX STI models attract enthusiasts seeking higher specifications and greater performance, while the Prodrive-developed P1 is considered one of the finest road-going Imprezas ever built.

The 22B STI sits at the top of the market, but its rarity places it beyond the reach of most buyers. For regular road use, many enthusiasts regard a well-maintained Turbo 2000 or Version 5/6 WRX STI as the sweet spot.

Who is Subaru Impreza recommended for?

The GC/GF Impreza suits enthusiasts who want one of the defining Japanese performance cars of the 1990s. It offers genuine rally heritage, excellent driver involvement and strong specialist support.

It is particularly rewarding for buyers prepared to maintain it properly and prioritise condition over outright performance. Those looking for cheap, trouble-free motoring may be disappointed, but a carefully chosen, well-maintained GC/GF remains one of the most enjoyable and charismatic modern classics available.

Which Subaru Impreza to choose?

There’s only one model and a single engine, neither of which changed much in the decade the 1275 GT was on sale so, on the face of it, the decision should be down to condition, history and price.

As ever when buying a classic, you should go for the best you can afford and the extra money for a car with good history and (preferably) fully documented evidence of a proper restoration will probably be better spent than going for a cheaper one with dreams of restoring it to glory. The only real decision will be between an earlier model on 10-inch Rostyles or a facelifted post-1974 one with the bigger 12-inch steel wheels and larger 8.4-inch discs behind them.

Both aesthetically and in terms of handling the smaller wheels would seem more desirable and closer in spirit to the Cooper bloodline, this and the period Performance Kit (or some manner of sympathetic twin-carb conversion) delivering a welcome extra burst of speed without going against that increasingly valued originality.

Specifications: Subaru Impreza Turbo 2000 (UK market, post-1999)

Engine

1,994cc 4-cyl horizontally opposed, turbocharged, petrol

Power

218PS (161kW) @ 5,600rpm

Torque

290Nm (214 lb ft) @ 4,000rpm

Transmission

Five-speed manual, permanent four-wheel drive

Kerb weight

c. 1,235kg (saloon)

0-62mph

c. 6.0 seconds

Top speed

c. 137mph

Production dates

1992-2000 (all models, all markets)