The Subaru Impreza was introduced in the UK in 1994, initially a five door hatchback/estate. Over the years Subaru improved the range continually with better comfort and performance including a number of special editions - the Turbo models being the most popular.
Review Centre Reviewers have given the Subaru Impreza Turbo a 90 per cent recommended rating due to their happiness with this high quality, high performance vehicle.
Since its introduction the Turbo has spawned a number of imitations and is regarded by some as the best four wheel drive sports car in existence.
Multiple World Rally champion credentials and the fact that the Subaru Impreza Turbo regularly tops JD Power satisfaction surveys are also clearly a benefit to its reputation.
Specification
The Impreza WRX Subaru Impreza 2.0 WRX AWD Turbo 4dr technical specification
- Engine: 1994 cc
- Mpg: 30.7
- Insurance Group: 20
- Acceleration: 0-62 5.9s
- Max Speed: 144mph
Timeline
- 1996 - Significant changes were introduced in 1996 and in 1997 as the turbo received revised engine, improved suspension and engine management system.
Also to celebrate Richard Burns first year in the Subaru World Rally Team the RB5 was launched to critical acclaim by the press.
Subaru again won the manufacturers title in the FIA World Rally Championship, finally winning the title with the points gained on the Catalunya rally of Spain.
- 1997 - The turbo received much improved sports seats - replacing the non sport versions. 1997 - Subaru wins the WRC manufacturers title for a third time in succession.
- 1998 - A major overhaul of the interior with the introduction of computerised odometer and low fuel light. Other improvements included various standard safety features.
- 1999 Parts from Japanese STi cars added, including the front seats and improved suspension, wheel design plus remote central locking and interior improvements.
- 2002 The next big change occurred with the 2002 model and the controversial bug-eyed headlamps.
- 2003 Facelifted again due to negative response to 2002 changes.
- 2004 - Car of the Year Japan and the range given best-ever five stars for crashworthiness in Australian New Car Assessment Programme.
- 2005 - Subaru will be showcasing its new hybrid technology at this years Tokyo Motor Show - the B5-TPH concept car. The hybrid combines electric motor with Subaru turbocharged 2.0-litre engine.The concept car is claimed to outperform an Impreza WRX (which has 0-60mph in under six seconds) while achieving an outstanding 40mpg in city driving conditions.
- 2006 - The most popular model - the Impreza WRX saloon set for a new 2.5 litre turbo engine and other improvements. 2006 Imprezas, including the performance models, have been redesigned with the jet intake and wings grille first debuted on the Subaru B9 Tribeca sport-utility vehicle.
Reviews
Some Review Centre review comments.
A frighteningly fast car with handling and road holding to match its performance. Very practical too with 4 doors and a large boot.
I am so amazed at the performance of this car. The handling is awesome.
Yahoo Cars said:
The Impreza is a cult car for good reason.
Auto Car said of the Subaru Impreza (93-03) Saloon 2.0 Turbo 4WD 4dr:
Launch this unlikely junior supercar off the line in absolutely ideal conditions a soaking wet track on a cool morning and a scarcely believable 5.8sec later you will be travelling at 60mph.
Irish Times said:
Subarus are among the worlds most reliable cars.
Conclusion
The commercial success of this vehicle means no other four wheel drive turbo has produced and sold so many.
The main reason for this success is the Imprezas price to performance, its racing victories and perceived reliability. According to our reviewers, the Impreza turbo is basically a worry free everyday vehicle with the added dimension of supercar performance thrown in.
