The Subaru Impreza III Hatchback WRX 2.5, produced between 2007 and 2011, represents a significant iteration of Subaru’s rally-bred compact car. Positioned as the performance variant within the third-generation Impreza (GE/GH/GR/GP) lineup, the WRX 2.5 aimed to deliver accessible all-wheel-drive performance. It built upon the foundation of the Impreza’s practical hatchback body style, offering a blend of everyday usability and spirited driving dynamics. This model was primarily sold in markets like North America, Europe, and Australia, where the demand for affordable, capable all-wheel-drive vehicles was strong. The “WRX” designation, historically linked to Subaru’s World Rally Championship efforts, signified a step up in performance compared to the standard Impreza models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Subaru |
| Model | Impreza |
| Generation | Impreza III Hatchback |
| Type (Engine) | WRX 2.5 (224 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) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.5 sec |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.4 kg/Hp, 157.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 224 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 306 Nm @ 2800 rpm (225.69 lb.-ft. @ 2800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | EJ255 |
| Engine displacement | 2457 cm3 (149.94 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Boxer |
| Cylinder Bore | 99.5 mm (3.92 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.2 l (4.44 US qt | 3.7 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1425 kg (3141.59 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 | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1500 mm (59.06 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 type McPherson |
| 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 | 205/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Impreza WRX 2.5 is the EJ255 2.5-liter turbocharged boxer-four engine. This engine, a hallmark of Subaru’s performance models, features a horizontally opposed configuration, which contributes to a lower center of gravity and improved balance. The EJ255 utilizes multi-port fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to produce 224 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 225.69 lb-ft of torque at 2800 rpm. The engine’s robust construction and relatively simple design made it a reliable performer, though it did require regular maintenance. The standard transmission for this variant was a 5-speed manual gearbox, designed to handle the engine’s output and deliver a direct driving experience. The engine’s longitudinal mounting, coupled with Subaru’s symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, provided excellent traction and handling characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2007-2011 Impreza WRX 2.5 with the 5-speed manual transmission offered a compelling driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in approximately 5.5 seconds, making it a quick vehicle for its class. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power, delivering strong acceleration in the mid-range. The all-wheel-drive system instilled confidence in various road conditions, providing excellent grip and stability. Compared to the later, more powerful WRX STI models, the WRX 2.5 offered a more accessible and forgiving driving experience. While it lacked the STI’s aggressive tuning and advanced features, it provided a satisfying balance of performance and usability. The 5-speed manual transmission offered precise shifts and allowed drivers to fully engage with the engine’s power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The WRX 2.5 typically came equipped with a range of features designed to enhance both performance and comfort. Standard equipment included sport seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The interior design was functional and focused on providing a driver-centric experience. While not luxurious, the interior materials were durable and well-assembled. The hatchback body style offered a good level of practicality, with a cargo area of 19 cubic feet.
Chassis & Braking
The Impreza WRX 2.5 featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. The suspension was tuned to balance handling performance with everyday comfort. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The braking system provided adequate stopping power for spirited driving, though it wasn’t as powerful as the larger brakes found on the STI model. The car’s relatively lightweight construction (around 3141 lbs) contributed to its agile handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Impreza WRX 2.5 was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and all-wheel-drive system. It was often seen as a good value for the money, offering a compelling alternative to other performance cars in its price range. Compared to the standard Impreza models, the WRX 2.5 offered a significant performance upgrade. However, its fuel economy was lower, averaging around 24 mpg combined. Compared to the STI, the WRX 2.5 was considered more approachable and easier to drive, making it a popular choice for drivers who wanted a performance car without the added complexity and cost of the STI.
Legacy
The Subaru Impreza WRX 2.5 (2007-2011) remains a popular choice among enthusiasts today. The EJ255 engine, while known for its potential maintenance needs (particularly head gasket issues), is a robust and tunable powerplant. The car’s all-wheel-drive system and durable construction make it a capable and reliable vehicle, even after many years of use. In the used car market, well-maintained examples of the WRX 2.5 command reasonable prices, reflecting their enduring appeal and performance capabilities. The model continues to be celebrated for its rally-inspired heritage and its ability to deliver a fun and engaging driving experience.
