The Subaru Impreza II, specifically the facelifted version introduced in 2005, represented a significant evolution of Subaru’s popular compact car. Produced from 2006 to 2007, the 1.5-liter variant with 105 horsepower and an automatic transmission offered a more accessible entry point into the Impreza range, particularly in markets outside of North America where smaller displacement engines were favored. This model sat within the broader Impreza II generation (G11), which utilized the Subaru GC/GF platform, and aimed to provide a blend of practicality, Subaru’s signature all-wheel drive capability, and reasonable fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza II (facelift 2005) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 (105 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | 2006 |
| End of production | 2007 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 190 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.4 kg/Hp, 80.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm, 109.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 3200 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 3200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ15 |
| Engine displacement | 1498 cm3 (91.41 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 77.7 mm (3.06 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.3 l (7.71 US qt | 6.42 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 401 l (14.16 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 500 kg (1102.31 lbs.) |
| Length | 4465 mm (175.79 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1440 mm (56.69 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2525 mm (99.41 in.) |
| Front track | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives permanently the four wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Impreza variant was the EJ15 1.5-liter horizontally-opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru, was chosen for its compact size and inherent balance, contributing to smoother operation. The EJ15 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection. While not a high-performance engine, it was designed for reliability and fuel efficiency. The 105 horsepower output was achieved at 6,400 rpm, with peak torque of 142 Nm (104.73 lb-ft) arriving at 3,200 rpm. This engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, a common choice for drivers prioritizing ease of use over outright performance. The automatic transmission was electronically controlled, offering adaptive shifting based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter Impreza Automatic offered a comfortable, if not particularly exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 14.1 seconds. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did detract from the engine’s responsiveness. Gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than rapid acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter Impreza variants (including those with manual transmissions), the 1.5 felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. However, the all-wheel drive system provided excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, a key selling point for Subaru.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5-liter Impreza Automatic typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and an AM/FM radio with CD player. Interior upholstery was typically cloth. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level often served as an entry point into the Impreza range, appealing to buyers seeking a practical and reliable vehicle with the added security of all-wheel drive.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza II utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at both the front and rear, incorporating a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. The all-wheel drive system employed a symmetrical design, distributing power evenly to all four wheels for optimal traction. Steering was rack and pinion, providing reasonably precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5-liter Impreza Automatic was generally well-received as a sensible and practical choice. Critics acknowledged its fuel efficiency and the benefits of all-wheel drive, but often noted its lack of performance compared to higher-powered Impreza models. Fuel economy figures of around 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg) were competitive for its class. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza, the 1.5 offered a lower purchase price but sacrificed performance. The 1.5 was often seen as a good option for urban commuters and drivers who prioritized safety and reliability over sporty driving dynamics.
Legacy
The EJ15 engine, while not as celebrated as Subaru’s larger engines, proved to be a reliable unit when properly maintained. The four-speed automatic transmission, while somewhat dated by modern standards, also demonstrated reasonable durability. In the used car market, these Imprezas are often sought after for their affordability and all-wheel drive capability. However, potential buyers should be aware of the typical maintenance requirements for older Subarus, including regular oil changes and inspection of the cooling system. Overall, the 1.5-liter Impreza Automatic represents a solid and dependable choice for those seeking a practical and capable compact car.
