The Subaru Impreza II Station Wagon, specifically the 1.5-liter variant introduced with the 2006 facelift, represented an entry-level option within the broader Impreza range. Produced through 2007, this model aimed to provide the practicality of a station wagon combined with Subaru’s renowned symmetrical all-wheel drive system, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile and safe vehicle. It sat below the more powerful 2.0-liter naturally aspirated and turbocharged models in the lineup, offering a more economical choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and affordability over outright performance. This variant was primarily marketed in Europe and other regions where station wagons remained popular, and was not officially sold in the North American market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza II Station Wagon (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 | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| 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 | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 15.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 168 km/h (104.39 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp, 79.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.3 kg/Nm, 107.2 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 | 1325 kg (2921.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max load | 425 kg (936.96 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 356 l (12.57 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1266 l (44.71 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 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 | 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.) |
| 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 |
INTRODUCTION
The Subaru Impreza II Station Wagon 1.5 (105 Hp) AWD Automatic, produced from 2006 to 2007, was a facelifted version of the second-generation Impreza wagon. This model was built on Subaru’s 1HX0 platform, also known as the A3 platform, shared with other models like the Forester. It represented a more accessible entry point into the Impreza range, prioritizing fuel economy and practicality over the performance-oriented trims. The facelift brought minor cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear styling, and interior refinements. This variant was specifically tailored for markets where fuel costs were a significant concern and where the demand for compact, all-wheel-drive station wagons remained strong.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Impreza variant lies the EJ15 1.5-liter horizontally-opposed (Boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru engineering, delivers 105 horsepower at 6400 rpm and 142 Nm (104.73 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3200 rpm. The EJ15 utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain and multi-point fuel injection. The Boxer configuration, with its horizontally opposed pistons, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing stability and handling. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth and convenient operation. While not offering the sporty responsiveness of a manual gearbox, the automatic transmission catered to drivers seeking ease of use, particularly in urban environments. The transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, rather than rapid acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5-liter engine and automatic transmission combination resulted in a driving experience focused on practicality and ease of use. Acceleration was modest, with a 0-60 mph time of around 15.1 seconds and a top speed of 168 km/h (104.39 mph). Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza models, this variant felt noticeably less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling inclines. The automatic transmission, while smooth, lacked the direct control and responsiveness of a manual gearbox. However, the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions, a key selling point for Subaru vehicles. The suspension, tuned for comfort, offered a reasonably compliant ride, although it wasn’t as sporty or engaging as the setups found in higher-performance Impreza trims.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5-liter Automatic Impreza Station Wagon typically came with a standard equipment list focused on practicality and convenience. This included power windows, power door locks, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio with CD player. Safety features such as ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and front airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras could include alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level was generally considered an entry-level offering, providing essential features without the luxury appointments found in higher-spec Impreza models.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza II Station Wagon utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a double-wishbone suspension at the rear, both incorporating a transverse stabilizer bar to reduce body roll. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes were drum brakes, a cost-saving measure common in entry-level models. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling center differential, distributing power between the front and rear axles as needed. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, prioritizing stability and predictability over outright sportiness.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.5-liter Impreza Station Wagon Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics acknowledged its practicality, fuel efficiency, and the security of Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system. However, the engine’s lack of power and the automatic transmission’s lack of responsiveness were often cited as drawbacks. Compared to the 2.0-liter Impreza models, the 1.5-liter variant offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of performance. The 1.9 TDI versions of competitor vehicles, like the Volkswagen Golf or Skoda Octavia, offered better fuel economy and more torque, but lacked the all-wheel-drive capability of the Subaru. The Impreza 1.5 appealed to buyers who prioritized affordability, safety, and all-weather capability over driving excitement.
Legacy
The Subaru Impreza II Station Wagon 1.5 Automatic, while not a performance icon, has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle. The EJ15 engine, while not known for being particularly powerful, is generally considered durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. The automatic transmission, though somewhat dated by modern standards, is also reasonably reliable. In the used car market, these Imprezas are often sought after by buyers looking for an affordable, practical, and safe station wagon with the added benefit of all-wheel drive. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s modest power output and the potential for age-related maintenance issues. Overall, this variant represents a sensible and dependable choice for those seeking a no-frills, all-weather vehicle.
