About the Subaru Impreza
The Impreza was launched to replace Subaru’s aging
Leone
and was built on a platform that emphasized versatility and safety. From its inception, it featured Subaru’s
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
system, setting it apart from its competitors.
The Impreza also became the foundation for Subaru’s motorsport legacy, as it was the base for the
Impreza WRX
and
WRX STI
, which dominated the
World Rally Championship (WRC)
in the 1990s and early 2000s.
Generations of the Subaru Impreza
First Generation (1992–2000)
Chassis Code:
GC/GF
This was Subaru’s entry into the compact car segment.
It offered a range of engines, including the
1.6L, 1.8L, and 2.0L flat-four engines
, with power outputs ranging from 90 to 135 hp.
The performance-focused WRX variant featured a
2.0L turbocharged engine
making up to
237 hp
, making it an instant favorite among enthusiasts.
The first-gen Impreza also gained fame as a rally car, with the
555 Rally Team
winning multiple championships.
Second Generation (2000–2007)
Chassis Code:
GD/GG
Known for its distinctive “Bug-Eye” design, this generation received mixed reactions for its styling, though a 2002 facelift addressed those concerns with the “Hawk-Eye” look.
Engine options expanded, including the
2.5L naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines
for the WRX and STI models.
Subaru introduced the
RS trim
, featuring AWD and a naturally aspirated 2.5L engine, catering to drivers who wanted AWD without the turbocharged performance.
Third Generation (2007–2011)
Chassis Code:
GE/GH/GR
Subaru made the Impreza larger and more refined, with improved interior quality and more space.
The WRX and STI were still part of the lineup, with the STI now offering a
2.5L turbocharged EJ257 engine
making up to
305 hp
.
A hatchback body style became a popular choice, especially in the rallying community.
Fourth Generation (2011–2016)
Chassis Code:
GP/GJ
Subaru focused on fuel efficiency, introducing the
FB-series engines
, including the
2.0L naturally aspirated FB20
.
This generation marked a shift away from high-displacement engines for better economy and lower emissions.
The WRX and STI were spun off as separate models, no longer branded under the Impreza name.
Fifth Generation (2016–2023)
Chassis Code:
GK/GT
Built on Subaru’s
Global Platform
, this generation improved safety, rigidity, and ride quality.
Engine options included the
1.6L and 2.0L naturally aspirated flat-fours
, paired with either a
manual transmission
or Subaru’s
Lineartronic CVT
.
Subaru’s
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
became standard on most trims, enhancing safety.
Sixth Generation (2023–Present)
The latest Impreza continues on the Global Platform, focusing on technology and refinement.
Subaru introduced a sporty
RS trim
with a 2.5L engine, offering a more engaging drive.
Safety and infotainment technology have been further enhanced, making it a modern and practical compact car.
Engines and Turbocharging
The Impreza has offered a wide range of engines over its lifetime, from small displacement naturally aspirated engines to turbocharged powerhouses in performance variants.
Naturally Aspirated Engines
:
Early generations offered
1.6L, 1.8L, and 2.0L flat-fours
.
More recent models feature the
FB20 2.0L engine
, which prioritizes efficiency and smoothness.
Turbocharged Engines
:
The
EJ20
and
EJ25 turbocharged engines
powered WRX and STI models, delivering performance and tuning potential.
Later generations moved to the
FA20DIT
(Direct Injection Turbo) engine for better efficiency and emissions.
Fuel Efficiency
The Impreza has become increasingly fuel-efficient over the years:
Early models with naturally aspirated engines averaged around
24-28 mpg (9.4-11.8 L/100 km)
.
Modern Imprezas equipped with the CVT can achieve up to
36 mpg (6.5 L/100 km)
on the highway, thanks to improved aerodynamics and engine technology.
Turbocharged WRX and STI models are less efficient, averaging around
20-25 mpg (8.5-11.8 L/100 km)
, reflecting their performance focus.
Safety Features
Subaru is a leader in automotive safety, and the Impreza benefits from a host of features:
EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
:
Includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist.
AWD Stability
: The Symmetrical AWD system provides exceptional grip and stability in all weather conditions.
Crash Protection
: The Subaru Global Platform enhances crash safety with a rigid body structure that absorbs impacts more effectively.
Advanced Airbags and Traction Control
: Standard across all generations, with improvements in responsiveness and coverage.
Unique Features
Symmetrical AWD
: Standard on all Impreza models, making it unique in its segment.
Boxer Engine Layout
: Lowers the car’s center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling.
Practicality
: The hatchback variants offer excellent cargo space, making the Impreza versatile for daily life.
Rally Heritage
: The Impreza is synonymous with Subaru’s rallying success, and its DNA is felt even in the base models.
Infotainment
: Modern Imprezas feature Subaru’s
Starlink system
, with smartphone integration, navigation, and voice commands.
Driving Experience
The Impreza offers a balanced driving experience:
Naturally aspirated models prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency, making them great for commuting.
Performance-oriented models (WRX/STI) deliver sharp handling, strong acceleration, and exceptional grip, ideal for spirited driving or motorsport enthusiasts.
The AWD system shines in poor weather, giving the Impreza a level of capability few competitors can match.
Conclusion
The Subaru Impreza is a car that has consistently delivered reliability, safety, and versatility since its debut. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient daily driver, a sporty weekend car, or something in between, the Impreza has something to offer. Its all-wheel-drive capability, rally-inspired heritage, and focus on safety make it a standout in the compact car segment.
While competitors may offer better fuel economy or sharper styling, the Impreza’s balance of practicality, performance, and AWD assurance makes it a solid choice for those who value confidence behind the wheel.
Are you looking at buying new or used Subaru Impreza in Kenya? Are you looking at selling your used Subaru Impreza in Kenya? Do you want to know the prices of new or used Subaru Impreza in Kenya? Do you want to know how to import Subaru Impreza from Japan? Please visit our show room in Karen, Nairobi and our sales agents will guide you.
Below is a list of Subaru Impreza for sale in Nairobi, Kenya and also others available in Japan. You can now buy and import year 2025, 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, and 2018 Subaru Impreza from Japan to Kenya.