The Subaru Impreza II Station Wagon 2.0i 16V, produced between 2000 and 2002, represented a practical and versatile offering within the second generation (GF) Impreza lineup. Positioned as a family-oriented variant, the station wagon body style broadened the Impreza’s appeal beyond the sporty hatchback and sedan models. This particular configuration, featuring a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine producing 125 horsepower paired with a four-speed automatic transmission and Subaru’s signature symmetrical all-wheel drive, aimed to provide a comfortable and capable vehicle for everyday use. It was a key model for Subaru in markets where practicality and all-weather capability were highly valued.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza II Station Wagon |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0i 16V (125 Hp) 4WD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2000 year |
| End of production | 2002 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 13.5 l/100 km (17.4 US mpg, 20.9 UK mpg, 7.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9.7 l/100 km (24.2 US mpg, 29.1 UK mpg, 10.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 176 km/h (109.36 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp, 86.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm, 127.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 184 Nm @ 3600 rpm (135.71 lb.-ft. @ 3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ201 |
| Engine displacement | 1994 cm3 (121.68 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 92 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 360 kg (793.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 353 l (12.47 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1266 l (44.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4405 mm (173.43 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2525 mm (99.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1465 mm (57.68 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 H |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza II 2.0i Station Wagon was the EJ201 engine, a 1994cc naturally aspirated, horizontally-opposed (boxer) four-cylinder. This engine design, a Subaru hallmark, offered inherent balance and a low center of gravity, contributing to the vehicle’s handling characteristics. The EJ201 featured a single overhead camshaft (OHC) per cylinder bank, operating four valves per cylinder. Fuel delivery was managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The 125 horsepower output at 5600 rpm and 184 Nm (135.71 lb-ft) of torque at 3600 rpm were respectable for the time, but not particularly high-performance figures. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, was a relatively older design compared to the five-speed manual available in other Impreza variants. It was chosen for its ease of use and suitability for drivers prioritizing comfort over sporty driving dynamics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic Impreza Station Wagon offered a comfortable and predictable driving experience. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, with the 0-60 mph sprint taking around 12.1 seconds. However, it was noticeably slower than the manual transmission or higher-powered (turbocharged) Impreza models. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards fuel efficiency and smooth cruising rather than rapid acceleration. The symmetrical all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction in various weather conditions, a significant advantage in regions prone to rain or snow. The boxer engine’s low center of gravity contributed to stable handling, but the overall driving experience was more focused on practicality and comfort than outright sportiness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i Automatic trim level typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and an AM/FM radio. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio system, and alloy wheels. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing ease of use over stylistic flair. This trim level was positioned as the entry-level or mid-range option within the Impreza Station Wagon lineup, appealing to families and drivers seeking a reliable and practical vehicle without the added cost of more luxurious features or higher performance.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza II Station Wagon utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a spring strut rear suspension. The suspension setup was tuned for a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The vehicle’s weight of 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs) influenced the braking performance and handling characteristics, requiring a slightly more cautious approach compared to lighter Impreza models.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza II Station Wagon 2.0i Automatic received generally positive reviews for its practicality, all-wheel drive capability, and comfortable ride. Critics noted that the automatic transmission and naturally aspirated engine resulted in somewhat lackluster performance compared to the manual transmission and turbocharged variants. Fuel economy was considered average for its class. Compared to the more popular Impreza 2.5RS (turbocharged) models, the 2.0i Automatic appealed to a different demographic – those prioritizing affordability, fuel efficiency, and ease of use over outright performance. It offered a compelling alternative to other compact station wagons, particularly in markets where all-wheel drive was highly valued.
Legacy
The EJ201 engine, in its various iterations, proved to be a relatively reliable powerplant, although regular maintenance was crucial. The four-speed automatic transmission, while durable, is now considered dated. Today, the Impreza II Station Wagon 2.0i Automatic is a relatively affordable and practical used car option. Its all-wheel drive system and spacious interior continue to make it a viable choice for those seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle. While not a collector’s item like some of the more potent Impreza models, it represents a significant part of Subaru’s history and a testament to the brand’s commitment to building practical and capable vehicles.
