Subaru Impreza GDB — Buyer's Guide & Specs

The Subaru Impreza spans everything from basic AWD commuters to rally-bred WRX/STI icons. Values are strongest for clean, unmodified WRX/STI and rare trims, while base models stay affordable. Buy on rust, mods, and maintenance history—those drive price more than miles.

Key Takeaways

  • WRX/STI drive collector demand; base trims stay budget
  • Unmodified examples sell fastest and bring top money
  • Rust + mods are the biggest value killers
  • EJ head gaskets and timing belts are key due diligence
  • Hawkeye/Blobeye WRX and GD STI are market sweet spots
  • GR/GV hatch STI has rising enthusiast premium

Technical Specifications

Engine Options

Engine Displacement Power Boost Notes
EJ15 1.5L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A SOHC NA; exact output market-dependent
EJ16 1.6L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A SOHC NA; exact output market-dependent
EJ18 1.8L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A SOHC NA; exact output market-dependent
EJ20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; multiple specs by market/year
EJ20G 2.0L unknown (varies by year/trim) unknown Turbo; early WRX/STI; spec varies
EJ20K 2.0L unknown (varies by year/trim) unknown Turbo; later GC WRX/STI; spec varies
EJ22G 2.2L unknown (factory-rated varies by market) unknown Turbo; limited 22B; exact figures vary
EJ15 1.5L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; JDM base; output varies
EJ16 1.6L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; EU base; output varies
EJ20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; multiple calibrations by market
EJ204 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA DOHC AVCS; market-dependent output
EJ205 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) unknown Turbo; WRX; output/boost vary by market
EJ207 2.0L unknown (varies by year/spec) unknown Turbo; STI; spec varies (AVCS, twinscroll)
EJ257 2.5L unknown (varies by year) unknown Turbo; US STI; output varies by MY
EJ15 1.5L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; base; output varies
EJ20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; output varies by market
EJ204 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA DOHC AVCS; market-dependent
EJ255 2.5L unknown (varies by market/year) unknown Turbo; WRX; output varies
EJ257 2.5L unknown (varies by market/year) unknown Turbo; STI; output varies
FB16 1.6L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; FB-series; market-dependent output
FB20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; FB-series; market-dependent output
FB16 1.6L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; market-dependent output
FB20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; market-dependent output
FB20 2.0L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; current gen; market-dependent output
FB25 2.5L unknown (varies by market/year) N/A NA; 2.5L for RS; market-dependent output

Transmission Options

Type Ratios Availability Notes
5-speed Manual unknown (varies by model/year) Multiple trims/gens Ratios vary widely by market and MY
6-speed Manual unknown (varies by model/year) WRX STI (many markets/years) DCCD on STI; ratios vary by MY
4-speed Automatic unknown (varies by model/year) Multiple trims/gens 4EAT; ratios vary by MY/market
CVT N/A (CVT) GP/GJ, GT/GK, GU (most trims) Lineartronic; spec varies by MY/market

Livability

Headroom
39.8"
Good front headroom; sunroof reduces slightly
Rear Seats
Usable for adults
Knee room tight behind tall driver; 2 adults ok
Cargo
12-20 cu ft
Sedan ~12; hatch ~20; seats fold for big items

Variants & Trims

Generation Trim Engine Key Features
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza 1.5i (JDM) EJ15 NA Base spec, 5MT/4AT, FWD/AWD (market)
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza 1.6i (EU) EJ16 NA Base spec, 5MT/4AT, AWD (market)
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza 1.8i EJ18 NA 5MT/4AT, AWD (market), entry equipment
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza 2.0i EJ20 NA 5MT/4AT, AWD (market), higher output NA
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza WRX EJ20G Turbo Turbo, AWD, 5MT/4AT, sport suspension
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza WRX STI EJ20G/EJ20K Turbo STI tune, AWD, 5MT, uprated brakes/suspension
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza WRX Type RA EJ20G/EJ20K Turbo Lightweight, close-ratio 5MT, roof vent (some)
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza WRX STI Type RA EJ20G/EJ20K Turbo STI + lightweight, DCCD (some), rally-focused
GC/GF (1st gen, 1992-2000) Impreza WRX STI 22B EJ22G Turbo Widebody, 2.2T, DCCD, limited production
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza 1.5i (JDM) EJ15 NA Base spec, 5MT/4AT, AWD (market)
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza 1.6i (EU) EJ16 NA Base spec, 5MT/4AT, AWD (market)
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza 2.0i EJ20 NA 5MT/4AT, AWD (market), mainstream trim
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza 2.0R (some markets) EJ204 NA AVCS NA, 5MT/4AT, sport-oriented NA
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza WRX EJ205/EJ207 Turbo Turbo, AWD, 5MT/4AT (market), sport chassis
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza WRX STI EJ207/EJ257 Turbo 6MT (many), DCCD, Brembo, STI aero
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza WRX STI Spec C EJ207 Turbo Lightweight, water spray (some), track/rally focus
GD/GG (2nd gen, 2000-2007) Impreza WRX STI Type RA-R EJ207 Turbo Limited, uprated engine, lightweight, RA-R spec
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen, 2007-2014) Impreza 1.5i (JDM) EJ15 NA Base spec, 5MT/4AT, AWD (market)
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen, 2007-2014) Impreza 2.0i EJ20 NA 5MT/4AT, AWD (market), core trim
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen, 2007-2014) Impreza 2.0R (some markets) EJ204 NA AVCS NA, 5MT/4AT, sport NA
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen, 2007-2014) Impreza WRX EJ255 Turbo Turbo, AWD, 5MT, widebody (later), sport chassis
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen, 2007-2014) Impreza WRX STI EJ257 Turbo 6MT, DCCD, Brembo, STI aero/suspension
GP/GJ (4th gen, 2011-2016) Impreza 1.6i (some markets) FB16 NA CVT/5MT (market), AWD (market), efficiency focus
GP/GJ (4th gen, 2011-2016) Impreza 2.0i FB20 NA CVT/5MT (market), AWD, mainstream equipment
GT/GK (5th gen, 2016-2023) Impreza 1.6i (some markets) FB16 NA CVT/5MT (market), AWD (market), base trim
GT/GK (5th gen, 2016-2023) Impreza 2.0i FB20 NA CVT/5MT (market), AWD, core trim
GU (6th gen, 2023- ) Impreza 2.0 FB20 NA CVT, AWD (NA), Subaru Global Platform update
GU (6th gen, 2023- ) Impreza RS (NA) FB25 NA 2.5L, CVT, AWD, sport suspension/exterior

Should You Buy a Subaru Impreza GDB?

Why You'll Love It

  • Symmetrical AWD traction Excellent all-weather grip; strong resale in snow states and rural markets.
  • WRX/STI performance upside Turbo models offer big tuning headroom; strong enthusiast liquidity when stock.
  • Practical packaging Hatch/wagon variants are usable daily; good visibility and cargo for the size.
  • Huge parts & community support Aftermarket and OEM supply is deep; DIY knowledge base is unmatched.
  • Engaging analog feel (older gens) GC/GD deliver light steering and feedback; strong driver appeal vs newer rivals.
  • Motorsport heritage Rally pedigree supports long-term desirability for WRX/STI and clean classics.

Why You Might Not

  • Mod risk on WRX/STI Aggressive tunes, poor fueling, and hard use can hide expensive engine/trans issues.
  • Rust and accident history Older Imprezas rust at quarters, sills, subframes; many have prior impacts.
  • EJ maintenance sensitivity Timing belt intervals, oiling, and cooling matter; neglect can mean rebuild money.
  • Insurance and theft exposure WRX/STI often carry high premiums; theft/vandalism risk in some metros.
  • Interior wear & NVH Older cars feel cheap inside; rattles and road noise are common vs newer compacts.
  • Fuel economy on turbo trims WRX/STI can be thirsty; tuned cars often worse and require premium fuel.

Who Should NOT Buy This

  • Anyone who won't check oil every 1-2 fuel fills
  • Buyers expecting Toyota-level reliability
  • People who refuse matched tires on all 4 corners
  • Anyone in rust-belt avoiding underbody work
  • Drivers who tow or haul heavy loads regularly
  • Owners who skip fluid services (esp. CVT)
  • People who can't afford a $5k drivetrain surprise
  • Those wanting quiet cabin; road noise is real
  • Drivers who want strong acceleration (non-WRX)
  • Anyone without a trusted Subaru specialist nearby
  • People who ignore overheating even once
  • Buyers wanting cheap mods; bad tunes kill engines
  • Short-trip only drivers; moisture sludges PCV/oil
  • Anyone who won't pay for OEM-quality cooling parts

Common Issues & Solutions

Issue Cause Solution Est. Cost
EJ head gasket external leak OEM gasket design + heat cycles MLS gaskets, machine heads, new bolts, flush $1800-3500
EJ timing belt/idler failure Skipped service; cheap idlers/pump Full OEM/Aisin kit; inspect cam/crank seals $700-1400
FB oil consumption Ring design/carbon; long oil intervals Short intervals; piston/ring job if severe $150-4500
Rod bearing failure (low oil) Oil consumption + owner neglect Used engine or rebuild; fix root cause $3500-8000
Radiator end tank crack Aging plastic tanks; heat cycling Replace radiator, cap, hoses; bleed properly $350-900
Overheating from air pockets Improper bleeding; weak cap/thermostat OEM thermostat/cap; vacuum fill & bleed $150-450
Catalytic converter efficiency Oil burning/misfires damage catalyst Fix oil/misfire; replace cat with OE-quality $900-2500
P0420 recurring after repair Cheap cat or unaddressed oil consumption OE cat + address oil use; verify fuel trims $1200-3000
CVT valve body/solenoid failure Heat/contamination; no fluid service Valve body replace; fluid exchange; relearn $1200-2500
CVT chain/pulley wear High mileage, towing, overheating Replace CVT assembly; add cooler if needed $4500-9000
Manual trans synchro wear Hard shifts, wrong fluid, high miles Fluid change; rebuild/used trans if grinding $150-2500
Clutch/throwout bearing noise Worn TOB/pressure plate; riding clutch Clutch kit + TOB; inspect fork/pivot $900-1800
Center diff bind (4EAT/MT) Mismatched tires; viscous coupling wear Match tires; replace viscous/center diff $600-2200
Wheel bearing failure Water intrusion; impact; age Replace hub/bearing; torque axle nut correctly $350-900
Rear axle seal leak Seal wear; bearing play; corrosion Replace seal; address bearing if loose $250-700
Power steering pump whine Air ingestion from o-rings/hoses Replace suction o-ring/hoses; flush fluid $80-450
Steering rack leak/clunk Seal wear; inner tie rod play Replace rack or reseal; align afterward $900-1800
Control arm rear bushing tear Age; salt; pothole impacts Replace control arms or press bushings; align $350-900
Sway link clunk Ball joint wear; torn boots Replace links; check sway bar bushings $120-350
Rear subframe rust-through Road salt; poor undercoating Replace subframe; treat rust; inspect mounts $1200-3000
Brake line corrosion leak Salt exposure; aged coating Replace lines; flush; inspect calipers $600-1800
ABS wheel speed sensor faults Rusty tone rings; sensor wiring damage Clean/replace sensor; repair wiring; scan verify $150-600
A/C compressor failure Clutch wear; contamination; leaks Replace compressor+drier; flush; evac/recharge $900-1800
Heater core clog/weak heat Old coolant; stop-leak use Backflush; replace core if restricted $150-1400
Sunroof drain leak Clogged drains; disconnected tubes Clear drains; reseat tubes; dry interior $100-500
Windshield/cowl water leak Poor seal; clogged cowl drains Reseal glass; clear drains; treat mold $250-900
MAF sensor drivability issues Oiled filters; dirt; intake leaks Clean/replace MAF; fix intake leaks; reset trims $20-350
Ignition coil misfires Heat cycling; oil in plug wells Replace coils/plugs; fix valve cover leaks $250-900
Valve cover gasket leaks Aged gaskets; crankcase pressure Replace gaskets/tube seals; service PCV $250-700
Oil pan seep/leak Sealant aging; impact damage Reseal pan; check pickup; refill with correct oil $250-650
Exhaust manifold cracks/leaks Thermal stress; rust at flanges Replace manifold/gaskets; fix broken studs $300-1200
O2 sensor failures Age; contamination from oil/coolant Replace sensor; verify fuel trims & cat health $150-450
Battery drain/parasitic draw Aging modules, aftermarket alarms, bad alternator Draw test; repair circuit; replace battery/alt $150-900
Interior rattles/trim wear Economy plastics; age; prior disassembly Clip/foam fixes; replace broken retainers $20-300

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Critical Priority

  • VIN/Title Run VIN for salvage/flood/odometer flags
  • Oil Level/Condition Check low oil, fuel smell, glitter in oil
  • Head Gaskets Look for coolant/oil seep at block seam
  • Cooling System Check overflow bubbles, sweet smell, stains
  • Thermostat/Fans Verify fans cycle; no overheating in idle
  • Compression Test Check even compression; flag low cylinder
  • Leakdown Test Listen at oil fill/intake/exhaust for leak
  • Exhaust Smoke Blue on decel = rings; white = coolant
  • Timing Belt (EJ) Inspect sticker/records; check idlers noise
  • CVT Operation No shudder, flare, or delayed engagement
  • Center Diff Bind Tight turns: hopping/binding indicates AWD issue
  • Tires Matching All 4 same brand/size/tread within 2/32"
  • Rust: Rear Subframe Probe subframe, trailing arm mounts, brake lines
  • Rust: Strut Towers Inspect front/rear towers for rot or cracks
  • Airbags/SRS Ensure SRS light proves out; scan for codes
  • Road Test Heat Watch temp gauge; any rise in hills is bad
  • Post-Drive Check Recheck coolant level; sniff for combustion gas

High Priority

  • Service Records Confirm timing belt/chain service proof
  • Engine Cold Start Listen for knock, piston slap, loud ticks
  • Oil Leaks Inspect valve covers, front cover, oil pan
  • Radiator Check plastic end tanks for cracks/leaks
  • Heater Output Weak heat can indicate air/HC in coolant
  • Misfire/CEL Scan OBD for pending codes & misfire counts
  • Catalyst Readiness Check monitors set; avoid freshly cleared ECU
  • Timing Chain (FB) Listen for chain rattle; check cam/crank codes
  • Fuel Trim Check LTFT/STFT; big trims suggest leaks/MAF
  • Vacuum Leaks Smoke test intake boots, PCV, brake booster
  • CVT Fluid Check service history; look for seep at pan
  • AT/MT Shifting Check synchro grind (2nd/3rd), clutch slip
  • Clutch/Throwout Listen for TOB noise; check pedal feel
  • Rear Diff Check leaks at seals; whine on decel
  • Axles/CV Boots Check torn boots, clicking on full lock
  • Wheel Bearings Listen for hum; check play at 12/6 o'clock
  • Steering Rack Check for leaks, clunks, uneven assist
  • Brakes Check rotor lip, caliper slide seizure, ABS light
  • ABS/VDC Scan for ABS codes; check wheel speed sensors
  • Rust: Rockers Check pinch welds, rocker seams, bubbling paint
  • Rust: Floor/Spare Lift trunk liner; check spare well for water/rust
  • Accident Signs Check core support welds, overspray, panel gaps
  • Windshield/Cowl Check leaks into cabin; wet carpets/mold smell
  • Seatbelts Check retractors & pretensioner history
  • Interior Water Check under mats for wetness; musty odor
  • Road Test Load WOT pull: no misfire, no ping, stable boost (WRX)

Medium Priority

  • PCV System Check PCV valve/hoses for sludge & vacuum
  • Intake/MAF Check for hacked intakes, dirty MAF, codes
  • Spark Plugs Check interval; misfires often from old plugs
  • Coil Packs Look for cracks/corrosion; test under load
  • Suspension Bushings Inspect control arm, trailing arm, sway links
  • Struts/Shocks Check leaks, bounce test, uneven tire wear
  • Power Steering Whine/foam in reservoir; leaks at pump/lines
  • Alignment Road test for pull; check inner tire wear
  • Sunroof Drains Pour water; check A-pillar drains & headliner
  • HVAC Operation Check A/C cold, blend doors, fan speeds
  • A/C Compressor Listen for clutch noise; check high/low pressures
  • Battery/Charging Test alternator output; check parasitic draw
  • Key/Immobilizer Verify all keys; test remote & immobilizer

Generation History

GC/GF Impreza (1992-2000)

  • Lightweight chassis; classic rally-era feel
  • WRX introduced (JDM); STI variants emerge
  • Coupe/sedan/wagon; strong motorsport link
  • Rust and crash history common; inspect closely

GD/GG Impreza (2000-2007)

  • WRX global icon; STI mainstream performance
  • Bugeye/blobeye/hawkeye styling sub-eras
  • Huge aftermarket; mods heavily affect value
  • Best mix of analog feel and parts support

GE/GH Impreza (2007-2011)

  • Impreza becomes hatch-focused in many markets
  • WRX/STI move to wider-body performance models
  • Base cars are practical AWD commuters
  • Less collector heat than GD; value-driven buys

GR/GV Impreza WRX/STI (2008-2014)

  • WRX/STI on wider platform; hatch + sedan (STI)
  • STI hatch has cult following; rising premiums
  • Stronger chassis feel; heavier than GD
  • Watch ringland risk on EJ257; mod sensitivity

GP/GJ Impreza (2011-2016)

  • Non-WRX era: efficiency, safety, daily usability
  • FB engines; CVT common; lower enthusiast demand
  • Great winter car; values tied to condition
  • Oil consumption reports on some FB variants

VA WRX / VA STI (2014-2021)

  • WRX gets FA20DIT; STI retains EJ257
  • Big tuning scene; stock examples premium
  • Modern safety/comfort; strong daily-driver appeal
  • STI final-year demand supports top prices

GT Impreza (2016-2023)

  • Global Platform improves ride, NVH, safety
  • 2.0 NA + CVT; practical hatch/sedan
  • Not a collector play; best as reliable daily
  • Values stable; condition and options matter

VB WRX (Impreza split) (2021-present)

  • WRX no longer Impreza-based in branding
  • FA24 turbo torque; strong tuning potential
  • Impreza remains NA hatch; RS adds 2.5
  • Market separates WRX buyers from Impreza buyers

Market Data

Production Numbers & Rarity

Generation Years Total Built Notes
GC/GF (1st gen) 1992-2000 unknown Global production not consolidated here
GD/GG (2nd gen) 2000-2007 unknown Global production not consolidated here
GE/GH/GR/GV (3rd gen) 2007-2014 unknown Impreza vs WRX split complicates totals
GP/GJ (4th gen) 2011-2016 unknown Global production not consolidated here
GT/GK (5th gen) 2016-2023 unknown Global production not consolidated here
GU (6th gen) 2023- unknown Ongoing production

Rarest variant: Impreza WRX STI 22B

How It Compares

Feature GDB Honda Civic Si/Type R Mazda MX-5 Miata ND
Layout/AWD system Symmetrical AWD (most trims) FWD (most); LSD on Type R RWD; LSD on many trims
Turbo performance trim WRX/STI turbo variants Turbo I4; FWD hot hatch Turbo I4; FWD hot hatch
Stock power (icon trims) STI ~305 hp (US GD/GR/VA) Evo IX ~286 hp (US) Golf R Mk7 ~292 hp (US)
Handling character AWD grip; safe understeer stock Sharper turn-in; FWD rotation Neutral AWD; track-focused
Tuning headroom High; depends on engine/gen High; strong ECU/turbo support Very high; 4G63/4B11 robust
Reliability risk factors EJ ringlands, HG, oiling (varies) DSG/mechatronics; carbon buildup AYC/transfer case; hard-use wear
Manual gearbox feel Good; STI 6MT is benchmark Excellent; short, precise Good; not as heavy-duty as STI
Winter usability Excellent AWD + ground clearance Good tires help; FWD limits Very good AWD; heavier
Collector desirability High for clean WRX/STI; rare trims High for Evo VIII/IX; limited supply High for Type R; newer premium
Running costs Moderate; higher on turbo + mods Moderate; DSG service adds cost Higher; parts + AWD systems
Practicality (hatch/wagon) Strong; hatch/wagon availability Strong; hatchback benchmark Good; hatch, but tighter rear

Comparable Alternatives

Mitsubishi Lancer Evo IX

Closest AWD turbo rival; sharper feel; higher upkeep

VW Golf R (Mk7)

Modern AWD turbo hatch; refined daily; DSG common

Honda Civic Type R (FK8)

FWD track weapon; strong reliability; no AWD

Ford Focus RS

AWD hot hatch; playful chassis; watch head gasket history

Audi S3 (8V)

AWD turbo compact; premium cabin; higher service costs

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Impreza trims are most collectible?
Clean, stock WRX/STI (GD/GR/VA) and rare editions lead. Base Imprezas are mainly value buys.
What’s the biggest buying risk on WRX/STI?
Bad mods/tunes. Look for stock ECU, conservative tune, logs/receipts, and a compression/leakdown test.
Are head gaskets a deal-breaker?
Not always. On some EJ engines it’s common; proof of quality repair is a plus, not a minus.
What mileage is “too high” for an Impreza?
Condition beats miles. A 150k car with records can be safer than a 90k car with unknown mods.
Sedan vs hatch: which holds value better?
Depends on gen. STI hatch (GR) has strong demand; GD sedans are classic. Wagons/hatches sell fast.
What documentation should I demand?
Timing belt history (EJ), clutch, diff/gear oil service, tuning receipts, and rust/accident documentation.
Is an automatic/CVT Impreza worth it?
For daily use, yes. For enthusiast value, manual commands more; CVT is less desirable for collectors.
What’s the best value generation right now?
GE/GH and GP/GJ base cars are value. For performance, clean GR/GV WRX/STI often price well vs GD.

Sources & References