Skip advert
Advertisement

Subaru Impreza WRX (2007-2010) review

We can’t see the Impreza appealing to anyone other than existing WRX owners.

Overall Auto Express rating

3.0

How we review cars
Find your Subaru Impreza
Compare deals from trusted partners on this car and previous models.
Or are you looking to sell your car?
Value my car
Fast, no-nonsense car selling
Value my car

Driving
It’s the Impreza WRX’s driving experience that fans of the brand love. And owners of the old car will feel instantly at home. The 2.5-litre engine fires into life with the familiar offbeat noise of Subaru’s horizontally opposed layout. This is carried over from the former car, and shoots today’s hatch to 60mph in 6.5 seconds. However, the unit lacks character, doesn’t have the expected urgency, and makes the car feel nose-heavy. There’s too much movement on the springs, while weight transfer in corners means the Subaru can’t change direction in an instant. Grip is good, but the steering lacks sharpness and accuracy, while the agricultural five-speed gearbox is notchy and imprecise. However, the four-wheel-drive system means traction is excellent, and the Subaru will punch out of corners without scrabbling for grip. The ride is also supple.

Marketplace
Few cars enjoy such a dedicated following as the original Impreza. The current hatchback version is a real departure, yet to us appears simply too anonymous and generic. The WRX does regain some of the styling cues found on the old car: wider arches, deeper bumpers and a bonnet scoop. However, such obvious detailing looks dated. Subaru may struggle to compete against hot hatch rivals such as the Honda Civic Type-R, VW Golf GTI, Ford Focus ST and Mazda 3 MPS.

Owning
The conventional hatchback shape ensures the cabin is spacious, with the back seats proving a decent amount of legroom. The 301-litre boot is disappointing, though, with a high floor and sloping tailgate limiting versatility. The cabin is also a let-down; the materials seem cheap, and the grey plastics are unattractive. While build is solid, it feels old-fashioned. The steering column is multi-adjustable, and the sports seats are reasonably comfortable, but these do little to disguise the cabin’s drabness. At least it’s well-equipped, and the list price seems competitive. This is fortunate, though, given the WRX’s thirst; in our hands, it averaged just 23mpg.

Engines, performance and drive

MPG, CO2 and Running Costs

Interior, design and technology

Practicality, comfort and boot space

Reliability and Safety

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,297 off RRP*
Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £37,230Avg. savings £3,788 off RRP*Used from £15,300
Kia Sportage

Kia Sportage

RRP £28,065Avg. savings £3,053 off RRP*Used from £14,700
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £10,195
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New BMW i1 will cram big EV tech into a small package
BMW 1 Series render - front

New BMW i1 will cram big EV tech into a small package

The all-new BMW i1 will rival the all-electric Audi A3 and new Mercedes CLA when it arrives in 2027
News
28 Aug 2025
MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years
MG Cyber X design render - front

MG Cyber X will morph into a mini-Mercedes within two years

Boxy small SUV is gearing up for production, and our exclusive images show how the model might look
News
30 Aug 2025
Updated Tesla Model Y Performance revealed at a bargain price
2025 Tesla Model Y Performance

Updated Tesla Model Y Performance revealed at a bargain price

Tesla’s mid-size SUV has returned in its high-performing Performance trim for a surprisingly low £61,990
News
29 Aug 2025