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3.9/5· Subaru

Subaru Impreza (2014 - 2017)

2014 – 2017· 5 owner Q&As

Petrol5 Door
Motoring.Today Verdict
7.8/10

Very good

Thinking of going electric but don’t want to lose that retro charm? Can the Subaru Impreza bridge the gap between nostalgic design and modern tech?

At a glance

112

hp · Power

532

miles · Range / tank

11.9s

0–60 mph

£

Running costs

From £313/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

  • All-wheel drive for enhanced traction
  • Strong reputation for reliability and safety
  • Good fuel efficiency for the segment

Consider alternatives if

  • Limited boot space compared to some rivals
  • Interior materials could feel less premium
  • Some may find the engine options lack a bit of excitement

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£313/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,900 deposit

Best suited for

  • Company Car Drivers
  • Petrol/Diesel Buyers
  • High Mileage Drivers
  • Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Ratings breakdown

performance40/10
practicality39/10
running costs30/10
behind the wheel41/10
comfort38/10
equipment36/10
green credentials32/10
handling42/10
reliability45/10
safety44/10

Theo's AI summary

The Subaru Impreza (2014-2017) is an excellent choice for those seeking a practical, reliable, and performance-oriented compact car. With its all-wheel-drive capability, robust safety features, and comfortable interior, it caters to a broad audience of drivers. Furthermore, as Subaru embarks on its electric journey with retro-inspired models, there's an exciting prospect for both enthusiasts and eco-conscious consumers. Therefore, it's highly recommended for anyone considering a versatile vehicle that combines heritage with forward-thinking technology.

Best match for

  • Performance enthusiasts
  • Practical families
  • Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£133/month

Insurance

£82/month

Road Tax

£15851/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£16126/month

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The Subaru Impreza (2014 - 2017) boasts a dynamic driving character, seamlessly fusing its symmetrical all-wheel drive system with a robust yet refined engine performance. This harmony results in an exhilarating experience on various terrains, embodying the spirit of adventure th

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The 2014-2017 Subaru Impreza offers a solid all-wheel-drive system and a well-built cabin. Owners appreciate its reliability and practicality. However, interior materials feel less premium compared to rivals, and performance can be underwhelming in standard trims. Overall, it's a dependable choice for those seeking a compact car with rugged capability.

Read full review
Autocar

The Subaru Impreza stands out for its distinctive styling and robust build quality. It offers spacious accommodation and good visibility. However, the design may not suit everyone, and engine options could benefit from more efficiency. It's a practical option with good safety ratings, ideal for families.

Read full review
WhatCar

The Impreza scores well on reliability, often praised for few mechanical issues. It boasts a solid reputation for longevity, making it a wise investment for buyers prioritising dependability. Nonetheless, it could struggle with resale value compared to some rivals, though running costs remain reasonable.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options for the Subaru Impreza from this era are diverse, with various choices for those wishing to buy outright, take a loan, or lease. Competitive rates and terms ensure potential buyers can find a strategy that aligns with their financial situation.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs associated with the 2014-2017 Subaru Impreza are reasonably competitive for a car in this segment. Regular servicing and maintenance are essential to keep the car performing optimally, but Subaru's reputation for reliability generally translates to fewer unexpected repairs. The effective fuel economy further aids in keeping expenses in check, especially for those who travel significant distances.

Charging & fuel

For petrol models, users can rely on regular unleaded fuel, while future owners interested in electric variants will benefit from the growing network of charging stations, making the transition to electric seamless. The hybrid technology available in some models also offers an excellent compromise between fuel efficiency and performance.

Heritage

Milestones & history

  1. 2014

    Launch of the redesigned Impreza with enhanced safety features.

  2. 2016

    Introduction of the EyeSight Driver Assist Technology.

  3. 2017

    Preview of electric version signalling a new direction for the brand.

Read full launch story

The Subaru Impreza was created to provide a balanced concoction of practicality, performance, and safety for everyday users, making it a go-to choice for consumers in the compact car market. Over the years, the Impreza has seen various revisions, evolving from a simple compact car into a vehicle that reflects sophistication and technological advancements, while recent developments hint at its electric transformation drawing from its rich legacy.

Compare with alternatives

The Subaru Impreza (2014 - 2017) stands out in its class primarily due to its all-wheel drive system and reliable build, competing effectively against rivals like the Volkswagen Golf, Honda Civic, and Ford Focus.

Volkswagen Golf Hatchback

Reference only

The Golf is widely regarded as a premium small car, known for its quality and a great blend of performance and comfort.

vs features
The Golf offers a more upscale interior and a highly regarded infotainment system compared to the Impreza. It typically provides a sportier drive with a more engaging handling experience.
vs price
The Golf tends to be priced similarly to or slightly higher than the Impreza, often justifying the higher cost through its premium features and build quality.
No Motoring.Today review

Honda Civic Hatchback

Reference only

The Civic is popular for its reliability, spacious interior, and sporty handling, often attracting a younger demographic.

vs features
While the Civic's interior is spacious and practical, the Impreza offers standard all-wheel drive which enhances its driving credentials, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
vs price
Typically, the Civic is priced competitively with the Impreza, with some trims running slightly higher depending on options and specifications.
No Motoring.Today review

Ford Focus Hatchback

Reference only

The Focus is often marketed as a fun-to-drive compact, appealing to those who prioritize driving dynamics and technology.

vs features
The Focus is generally known for its engaging driving experience, with better handling relative to the Impreza. However, the Impreza's all-wheel drive system is a distinct advantage, especially in winter conditions.
vs price
Focus prices are fairly similar to the Impreza, often providing a good value for the feature set but can include a range of performance-oriented models at higher price points.
No Motoring.Today review

Available now

Subaru Impreza (2014 - 2017) for sale on Motoring.Today

Specs by trim

1.6i RC 5dPetrol Manual · 2014–2018
Power
112 bhp
0–60 mph
11.9 s
Top speed
115 mph
Torque
150 Nm
Economy
44 mpg
Range
532 mi
CO₂
147 g/km
Insurance group
14
Road tax
£190 - £210
New price
£18,795
1.6i RC 5d LineartronicPetrol Automatic · 2014–2018
Power
112 bhp
0–60 mph
12.2 s
Top speed
111 mph
Torque
150 Nm
Economy
46 mpg
Range
556 mi
CO₂
140 g/km
Insurance group
14
Road tax
£190
New price
£20,295

FAQs

What makes the Subaru Impreza (2014-2017) a reliable compact vehicle?
The Subaru Impreza is renowned for its reliability, featuring a robust all-wheel drive system and competitive safety ratings. Its efficient fuel consumption and low maintenance costs contribute to its appeal as a dependable choice for everyday drivers.
How does the Subaru Impreza compare in terms of performance?
The Subaru Impreza offers solid performance, especially on varied terrains. Its all-wheel drive enhances grip and stability, making it engaging on B-roads, though it may lack the refinement of some competitors.
What safety features are included in the Subaru Impreza (2014-2017)?
The Subaru Impreza boasts impressive safety ratings, achieving 5 stars from Euro NCAP. It includes advanced safety features like stability control and multiple airbags, ensuring a secure driving experience.
Are there any electric versions of the Subaru Impreza?
While there are no electric variants of the Subaru Impreza (2014-2017), Subaru has been exploring electric models, aiming to blend their traditional reliability with modern electric technology.
What are the running costs of the Subaru Impreza?
The Impreza is affordable to run, achieving around 36-38mpg combined. Maintenance costs are also competitive, making it a budget-friendly option for both city commutes and longer journeys.

Subaru Impreza (2014 - 2017) (2014–2017)

From £313/month