The Good
The 2003 Impreza offers a compelling blend of practicality and fun. Its advantages include reliable all-wheel drive for superior traction (practical), a sporty driving experience, particularly in WRX trim (emotional), decent fuel economy, and a reputation for durability. Its simple design and comfortable interior make it a value-driven choice.
The Bad
Weaknesses of the 2003 Impreza include its somewhat bland interior design, potential for rust in certain climates, and the possibility of head gasket issues on some engines. The WRX model, while fun, can suffer from turbocharger problems if not properly maintained. Be sure to check for signs of wear and tear.
2003 Subaru Impreza: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder (RS): 165 horsepower
- 2.0L DOHC Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (WRX): 227 horsepower
- 2.5L SOHC Naturally Aspirated 4-Cylinder (Base): 115 or 142 horsepower depending on the market
- Horsepower:
- Base: 115-142 hp
- RS: 165 hp
- WRX: 227 hp
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- Base/RS (Manual): 20-22 mpg city / 27-29 mpg highway
- WRX (Manual): 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times (estimated):
- Base: 9-11 seconds
- RS: 8-9 seconds
- WRX: 5.5-6.0 seconds
- Towing Capacity:
- Not officially rated for towing in most markets. Towing is not recommended.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base: Standard features included power windows and locks, and a basic sound system.
- RS: Upgraded alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension, premium cloth upholstery, and fog lights.
- WRX: Turbocharged engine, upgraded brakes, sport seats, rear spoiler, and enhanced styling. Also includes performance-oriented features like an intercooler and boost gauge.
2003 Subaru Impreza Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2003 |
| Make | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Japan |
| Manufacturing City | OTA |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.6L 6-Cyl. |
| Engine Size | 3.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 5 Manual/Standard |
| Transmission Type | Manual |
| Transmission Speeds | 5-Speed |
| Drivetrain | All-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2003 Subaru Impreza Have?
The WRX model is prone to turbocharger issues if maintenance is neglected. Oil starvation and improper boost control can lead to premature turbo failure. It's crucial to inspect the turbo for signs of wear or damage before purchasing a used WRX.
Other reported problems include: oxygen sensor failures, issues with the air conditioning system, and occasional electrical glitches. Check the car's vehicle history report for any recalls performed. Subaru has issued recalls for various Impreza models over the years for issues ranging from fuel leaks to brake light failures. Staying on top of scheduled maintenance, especially oil changes and coolant flushes, is vital for long-term reliability.
How long will the 2003 Subaru Impreza last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included front airbags and seatbelts. Side airbags were not a standard feature. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) crash-test ratings for the 2003 Impreza varied depending on the specific test and model year. Generally, it received good marks in frontal offset crash tests, but side-impact protection was less impressive.
The focus was more on providing a reliable and affordable vehicle than on advanced technology. Don't expect modern features like touchscreen displays, smartphone integration, or advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning or adaptive cruise control. The Impreza's appeal lies in its simplicity and ruggedness rather than its cutting-edge technology.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2003 Subaru Impreza Prices and Market Value
2003 Subaru Impreza Cost of Ownership
2003 Subaru Impreza Fuel Efficiency
2003 Subaru Impreza Safety Rating
NHTSA
2003 Subaru Impreza Recalls & Defects
Power Train:automatic Transmission
Seats
Vehicle Speed Control:cables
Suspension:front:control Arm:lower ARM
Latches/Locks/Linkages:tailgate:latch
Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump
2003 Subaru Impreza Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2003 Subaru Impreza Compare to Other Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
In terms of features, the Impreza was fairly basic compared to some rivals. Price-wise, the Impreza was competitive, especially the base models. The WRX offered a unique combination of performance and practicality at its price point.
Alternatives to the 2003 Impreza include: A newer Subaru Impreza (for improved features and safety), a Mazda3 (for sporty handling and better fuel economy), or a Toyota Corolla (for ultimate reliability). The Mitsubishi Lancer (non-Evo) is a similar alternative, but its reliability record isn't as strong.
Ranks #472 Sedan
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Camry | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Accord | (0.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Lexus ES | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Subaru Legacy | (5.0★) |
| 5 | 2022 Mazda MX-30 | (4.0★) |
| 6 | 2024 BMW M3 | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Ford Mustang | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz AMG GT | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Audi A3 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2023 Chevrolet Camaro | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2023 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2023 Nissan Altima | (4.0★) |
| 472 | 2003 Subaru Impreza | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2003 Subaru Impreza a Good Sport Utility Vehicle Vehicle?
myork66 on December 11, 2017
Love a Subaru!!Outstanding quality and reliability, built to last. Had mine for over 10 years with very little issues. Powerful performance.
myork66 on October 24, 2017
Power and performanceOne of the best cars I have ever owned. Very powerful! Dependable and comfortable. Never had any issues.
tomwahle on May 16, 2017
most reliable car ive ownedAlthough my car has only 90,000 it is almost assured to get me anywhere (barring of course seriously unmaintained OHV roads. With proper maintenance and upkeep, this baby has been running strong for me for over 10 years. Although the body has a lot of plastic that is somewhat fragile, the engine never quits. I have taken this on two ~3000 mile road trips without issue, and driven it 75,000 miles since Ive owned it. Love this car, unfortunately it is nearing time for me to part with it because my lifestyle and accumulated possessions require a larger vehicle, most likely a truck.
TurboJoe on April 10, 2017
Practical, reliable, but no fun at allWhat I liked: -Lots of cargo room -A tank in the snow -Good mountain-climbing torque -Easy to find parts for What I didn't: -Finnicky clutch- really tough to shift smoothly -No oomph (I see why so many people buy the WRX!) -Lots of rattles and a very bumpy ride Overall: It's a great car to drive and not think about, but don't expect much acceleration or a smooth, quiet ride. If you're looking at a used one, make sure to have the head gaskets looked at! They go quick and often and are insanely costly to replace
Boostedwrx03 on September 18, 2010
Best car I've ever ownedCar is the impreza wrx. Awd with great handling. Highly recomended. Car is fast and still gets good gas milage. Trans shift pretty smooth for a long time If taken care of
vic on January 27, 2010
Does Everything that Counts WellSafe: Not only does it have a roll cage construction with crumple zones, it has side airbags and weighs over 3000 pounds. That puts it in the weight class of Camrys and Accords of similar age. What that means is you get to drive a car that is a whole lot more engaging than an Accord or Camry without giving up anything at all in terms of safety. Versatile: With the 60/40 rear seat folded down, you can put a lot of stuff in the back of this car. Or you can carry 4 passengers (5 in a pinch). AWD and a reasonably stiff suspension means you can also take it many places you would not take an ordinary car, including snowy mountains. Fun: 0-60 in under 6 seconds, and lateral acceleration of more than 0.85. Add AWD to that equation and you have a car that you can drive fast and in complete control. Almost any car with similar capabilities lacks the safety or versatility of the WRX. Snob Appeal: It is said that what you drive says a lot about you. Look in the parking lot of any suburban mall and you'll see few Subies and a lot of bug SUVs. Go to the mountains or where ever active people hang out, and you'll find clouds of Subies. Audio Delight: This side of Porsche, No 4 banger on the market sounds as good as a WRX. The only real negatives: Comfort: The car is not for people who want to isolate themselves from the driving experience. You have to pay attention to get the most out of a WRX, and it will not isolate you from the road. Fuel Efficiency: Full time AWD (the real thing, not the stuff offered by most other car manufacturers) costs fuel. The WRX takes premium too. Bottom Line: Sports Car fun. Family car versatility and safety.
Horse gal on April 2, 2008
WRX automatic is slow off the lineThis is the 2nd turbo-charged Subaru I've owned. The first was an '88 Loyale and I LOVED it! It's features were ahead of its time. I don't love my WRX. It's the first automatic I've ever owned and while I like not having to clutch and shift, I hate the turbo lag. Step on the gas from a stop or passing and there is a frightening pause before it "shifts" and accelerates. Once it gets going it runs like a scared rabbit over 11,000 foot passes but don't try to beat that semi when making a left. Fifteen years hasn't seen many improvements in the interior or exterior. The wheel wells still jam with snow and ice and have to be knocked out before you ruin your tires. The interior of the '88 Loyale was more comfortable than the '03 WRX and a lot roomier. No adjustable lumbar support, unusable arm rests make long distance travel uncomfortable and what happened to the flip up steering wheel? I was excited to get another Subaru, especially one with so much power. Think I'll look for a different maker next time around.
me on December 28, 2006
Couldn't imagine owning anything else!03 WRX Wagon.I live an active lifestyle.Fun through fun roads, frequently nasty weather.Nearly everything I could ever want in one car.Performance: It is about as much fun as you need in a daily driver.Fast, handles great, and a blast to drive.Big power up high altitude mtn passes fully loaded.Turbos are air compressors, so no low air pressure related power loss.More confident at 13000 feet than 350z.Many economic upgrades available.One common turbo adds 120 hp @ $1500.Overseas Subaru sold the same motor with over 300 hp, so it can handle it.Responds well to chips and pipes.Mine is stock until the extended warranty expires and parts start to fail.Much more fun than a '01 Boxer that I test drove.As single guy it's all the space I need.With racks I easily take two friends on long weekend bike and camp trips.AWD: I haven't missed a single powder day since I've owned it.Reliability: Flawless to 82k, will keep for another 80k).I don't abuse it but I drive hard.No other car is this much fun for the $13K I paid.Being pick:1) Really stiff, high performance clutch. This car appreciates aggressive driving.While I was rehabing my left leg, traffic was pretty painful.It's okay for normal driving and really appreciated during performance driving.2)WRXs are infamous for being tough to get into 1st and reverse.You need to double clutch to get into 1st above 7mph (i think that's the spec).But the downside is that it's a turbo with no low end torque, so acceleration in 2nd from 7-15 mph during normal driving is nearly nonexistent, sometimes feels dangerous.2) Interior comfort.Subaru really cheaped out on noise reduction.Interior plastic is the tacky stiffer,shiny kind.Wind noise due to poor weather stripping and inadequete insulation. Not very stylish either. Civic's have a better interior over all.Though very ergonomic (again, it's a true drivers car) for me; I'm 5'5".Steering wheel leather has seriously chipped.The seats are the most comfortable fabric seats ever made. Soft to the touch yet incredibly supportive.The interior is the only thing that makes me wish I splurged for the A3 or A4.3) Sports cars are not for everyone.Drive it first, because it?s unique.If you love it you will buy it.If the clutch, steering, brakes, shifter and suspension are too stiff for you, and the turbo is awkward get something else. 4) Paint chips easily.5)No Traction control
myork66 on December 11, 2017
Love a Subaru!!Outstanding quality and reliability, built to last. Had mine for over 10 years with very little issues. Powerful performance.
myork66 on October 24, 2017
Power and performanceOne of the best cars I have ever owned. Very powerful! Dependable and comfortable. Never had any issues.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.