The Subaru Impreza III Hatchback RF 1.5, produced between 2007 and 2011, represented an entry point into Subaru’s all-wheel-drive lineup for the European and Asian markets. Positioned as a practical and affordable option, this variant utilized a 1.5-liter naturally aspirated boxer engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission. It served as a more economical alternative to the higher-performance WRX and STI models, and the more powerful naturally aspirated 2.0L options, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday usability over outright speed. The Impreza III, built on the GE/GH platform, marked a significant departure in styling from its predecessors, adopting a more contemporary and refined aesthetic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza III Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | RF 1.5 (107 Hp) AWD |
| Start of production | 2007 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.6 l/100 km (24.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 107 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 4500 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 4500 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 |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 538 l (19 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4415 mm (173.82 in.) |
| Width | 1740 mm (68.5 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2620 mm (103.15 in.) |
| Front track | 1505 mm (59.25 in.) |
| Rear track | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Several levers and rods |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza RF 1.5 was the EJ15 1.5-liter horizontally-opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru’s engineering philosophy, offered a low center of gravity, contributing to the car’s balanced handling. The EJ15 featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder and utilized multi-point fuel injection. The boxer configuration, while inherently balanced, required a slightly more complex oiling system to ensure adequate lubrication to all cylinders. The five-speed manual transmission was a conventional design, chosen for its simplicity and affordability. It featured a relatively wide gear spread, prioritizing fuel economy over rapid acceleration. The all-wheel-drive system employed a viscous coupling center differential, automatically distributing torque between the front and rear axles based on traction conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 107 horsepower and 104.73 lb-ft of torque produced by the EJ15 engine resulted in modest, but adequate, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 13.3 seconds, and top speed was limited to 108.74 mph. The car felt most comfortable during relaxed cruising, with sufficient power for everyday driving situations. The manual transmission, while not particularly sporty, offered precise shifts. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent traction in inclement weather, a key selling point for Subaru. Compared to the 2.0L Impreza variants, the RF 1.5 felt noticeably less powerful, especially during overtaking maneuvers or when carrying a full load. However, the lighter engine weight contributed to slightly improved fuel economy and a more nimble feel in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The RF 1.5 trim level was generally considered the base model. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, power windows, power steering, and an AM/FM radio with CD player. Safety features included ABS brakes and front airbags. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional, if somewhat basic, design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior space was reasonably generous for a compact hatchback, offering comfortable seating for five adults. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the specific market, with some regions offering additional features as standard.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza III Hatchback utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front suspension incorporated a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helped to maintain steering control during emergency braking situations. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort rather than outright sportiness, resulting in a compliant ride quality.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza RF 1.5 was generally well-received as an affordable and practical hatchback. Critics praised its all-wheel-drive system and fuel efficiency, but noted its lack of outright performance. Compared to other compact hatchbacks of the time, such as the Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, the Impreza offered a unique combination of features, including standard all-wheel drive. The 2.0L Impreza models offered significantly more power, but at a higher price point. The 1.5L engine was considered reliable, but required regular maintenance, including oil changes and timing belt replacements.
Legacy
The Subaru Impreza III Hatchback RF 1.5 has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The EJ15 engine, while not known for its high performance, is generally durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional sensor failures. The all-wheel-drive system remains a key selling point for buyers seeking a vehicle capable of handling challenging weather conditions. Today, these Imprezas represent an affordable entry point into Subaru ownership, offering a practical and dependable mode of transportation.
