2007 Subaru Impreza Review
The Impreza is a compact car first introduced in 1993. It was Subaru’s first compact, and is one of the few with standard all-wheel drive. A souped-up performance edition, the 2.5 RS, was released in 1998. The next generation, the WRX, debuted for 2002 as a four-door only model. Another performance edition, the STi, was released in 2004. It was Wheels Magazine’s “Car of the Year for 2000 and Automobile Magazine’s 2001 “Automobile of the Year.”
The BuyingAdvice Team Says:
The Subaru Impreza is like no other compact on the market. Equipped with standard AWD and available in a number of performance trims, the Impreza is both practical and bold. Whether you go with the car or the wagon, you’ll have a versatile vehicle that can suit just about any need.
What’s New For 2007:
What is the Predicted Reliability:
J.D. Power gives the Impreza 2.5 stars for overall mechanical quality, 3.5 stars for overall design, and 2 stars for performance and design. Problems with the first generation included engine misfires, engine noise, hard starting, and a flawed parking rod. It was recalled twice. Problems with the current generation include bad clutches and breaking seat belts. It’s been recalled six times for such issues as defective parking rods, loose seat bolts, defective cruise control, and oil leaks. Expect average reliability. The basic warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles.
Analysis Of Safety Ratings And Features:
The Impreza earned 4.5 stars in government frontal crash tests and 4 stars in side tests. The Impreza earned “Good” scores in IIHS crash tests, except the WRX only received a “Marginal” for rear crashes. Anti-lock brakes and side airbags are standard.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
+ Standard AWD
+ Plenty of performance options
+ Available as a wagon
Cons
– Cramped interior
– Expensive for a compact
– Bare interior
Head-To-Head Competition:
The Chevrolet Cobalt SS gets five more miles to the gallon, but lacks AWD and side airbags. The Honda Accord gets about five more miles to the gallon, but costs $600 more and lacks AWD. The Kia Rondo has more than three times the cargo capacity, but lacks AWD.
What Others Are Saying:
“The WRX STi is one of the fastest, most affordable road rockets on the market. But also one of the most punishing.” – Forbes
“With turbocharged all-wheel drive sport and the utility of a compact wagon, the Subaru Impreza WRX wagon is in a class of its own.” – The Auto Channel
“In fact, the Sports Wagon is everything an enthusiast could want in a family hatchback- save good looks, touchy-feely materials and neck snapping acceleration. It’s so multi-purpose, it ought to come with a corkscrew attachment.” – The Truth About Cars
Read more about the 2007 Subaru Impreza at the Subaru manufacturer web site.
