Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza was launched in 1993 to replace the company’s Leona model. Featuring a lightweight design that was ideally suited to all-wheel drive capability, this Subaru also included the manufacturer’s signature flat engine. In 1994, Japanese and European markets saw the introduction of the STi variant of the car. These upgraded models featured a wide range of upgrades, including high-performance transmissions, engines and suspensions, though they weren’t initially introduced to the North American market. Rather, Subaru planned to keep its image as a manufacturer of economical cars intact, initially limiting availability of the Impreza to a 1.8-liter engine only. In 1995, a 2.2-liter engine became optional.

Despite the limited availability, car enthusiasts on the American side of the Atlantic gradually became aware of the sedan’s performance capabilities. As demand for higher-performance STi models began to grow across the United States and Canada, the company opted to get its feet wet with a 2.5-liter model, which was introduced in North America in 1998. Encouraged by the results, the company continued to offer upgraded sedans throughout the North American market through the 2000 model year.

Later generations of the Subaru Impreza

In 2001, the model underwent its first major facelift, and the line’s second generation was introduced to markets around the world. While the company intended for the restyled model to offer added safety and refinement, drivers found it less responsive, slower and less attractive. By 2003, the car was restyled yet again to address consumer complaints about its boxy, unimaginative look. After making various adjustments over the next few model years, the line entered its third generation in 2007. Shorter, but wider with a longer wheelbase, the third-generation cars were launched in the spring of 2007 to generally positive reviews.