Used Subaru Impreza for Sale in Australia

The used Subaru Impreza is the compact hatchback and sedan at the foundation of Subaru's range, sharing its platform with the XV crossover and forming the base from which the WRX performance model is developed. For buyers who want Subaru's build quality and all-wheel-drive reputation in a compact, practical body without the added cost of a larger SUV or a performance model, the Impreza is the logical starting point. It is well-suited to buyers after a dependable, straightforward compact car with more traction than most alternatives in its class can offer.

Why choose a used Subaru Impreza?

The Impreza's case in the compact car segment is built on a combination that most competitors cannot match: a well-engineered compact body with AWD available as a standard or near-universal feature, depending on the generation and variant. In a segment where most cars are front-wheel drive by default, the Impreza's all-wheel-drive system provides a genuine handling and traction advantage in wet or loose conditions without adding the complexity and cost associated with a larger AWD vehicle.

Subaru's flat-four boxer engine gives the Impreza a lower centre of gravity than an upright inline engine would allow, contributing to a composed ride and balanced handling that differentiates it from most compact hatchbacks. The boxer engine is naturally aspirated on Impreza variants, making it straightforward to maintain and reasonably economical to run.

Buyers comparing the used Impreza against alternatives in the compact hatch and sedan segment should consider the used Toyota Corolla, used Mazda 3, and used Honda Civic. The Impreza holds an advantage on standard AWD availability and the distinct Subaru engineering heritage that comes with it; the trade-off is that newer Korean and Japanese rivals offer more premium interiors and technology at similar price points.

Subaru Impreza generations available in Australia

GJ/GP generation: The GJ hatchback and GP sedan ran in Australia from 2012 to 2016. These models used a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with a six-speed manual or a Lineartronic CVT, depending on the trim. AWD availability varied by variant. These represent the more affordable end of the second hand Subaru Impreza market and suit buyers who want basic Subaru reliability at a lower price point.

GT/GK generation: The GT hatchback and GK sedan launched in Australia in late 2016, bringing a more refined interior, updated infotainment, and EyeSight driver assistance on higher trims. This generation also introduced the global platform shared with the XV crossover. Both hatchback and sedan body styles were offered, providing flexibility for buyers with different practical priorities. The GT generation represents the more current and technology-equipped end of the used Impreza market.

G5 generation: The fifth-generation Impreza, the G5, arrived in Australia from 2023 on a revised platform also used under the Crosstrek. This generation brought a more significant interior update and improved safety features as standard.

What to look for when buying a used Impreza

Service history is the most important factor on any used Subaru Impreza. The naturally aspirated boxer engine is dependable with correct oil changes at the right interval; it does not have the same sensitivity as a turbocharged unit, but consistent maintenance matters for long-term reliability. Look for a complete logbook with stamps that match the odometer rather than gaps that suggest irregular service.

On GJ/GP-generation models, confirm the drivetrain: AWD and FWD variants were both sold in this generation, and they feel and behave differently in wet and loose conditions. Buyers specifically seeking AWD should verify the compliance plate or look for the AWD badge. On GT/GK and G5 models, AWD is generally more consistent across the range, but confirming the individual car's specification is always worth doing.

On any model with EyeSight, verify that camera calibration is intact after any windscreen replacement. Tyre wear across all four positions is worth checking: consistent wear indicates proper alignment and drivetrain function, while uneven wear warrants investigation before purchase.

Every used Subaru Impreza at Carma goes through the NRMA-verified inspection and reconditioning process before listing, with condition imperfections photographed and disclosed on the vehicle page.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Subaru Impreza all-wheel drive?

AWD availability on the Subaru Impreza depends on the generation and variant. GT-generation (2017 onwards) models are generally available in AWD across most Australian variants, making AWD a near-standard feature in that era. GJ/GP-generation (2012-2016) models were available in both AWD and FWD configurations depending on trim, so buyers considering older examples should confirm the specific drivetrain. Buyers for whom AWD is essential should verify the individual car's specification before purchasing.

What is the difference between the Subaru Impreza and Subaru WRX?

The Impreza and used Subaru WRX share their basic platform and AWD architecture but are built around very different briefs. The Impreza uses a naturally aspirated engine tuned for economy and reliability; the WRX uses a turbocharged engine with significantly more power and a performance suspension setup. Buyers who want Subaru AWD without the performance car running costs and fuel consumption should choose the Impreza.

Is the Subaru Impreza reliable?

The Subaru Impreza has a strong reliability record, particularly in GT-generation and later models with the FB-series naturally aspirated engine. The flat-four boxer engine is mechanically straightforward and dependable with correct servicing. Earlier GJ/GP models with the same engine family also have a good reputation. As with all Subarus, a verified service history with consistent oil changes is the most important indicator of how well an individual car has been maintained.

Does the Subaru Impreza come in hatch and sedan?

Yes. The Impreza is sold in both hatchback and sedan body styles in Australia across GT/GK and G5 generations. The hatchback offers more cargo flexibility with a folding rear seat; the sedan provides a larger enclosed boot. Both share the same mechanical package. The used Subaru XV is worth comparing for buyers who want the Impreza platform in a raised crossover body.

What is EyeSight on the Subaru Impreza?

EyeSight is Subaru's camera-based driver assistance suite, delivering adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning. It became available on higher GT-generation Impreza trims and is broadly fitted on G5 models. Any windscreen replacement requires professional camera recalibration to restore correct EyeSight function.

Can I finance a used Subaru Impreza through Carma?

Yes. Carma's car finance is available across all used Subaru Impreza models on the platform. Applications are completed online, same-day approval is available, and checking eligibility has no impact on credit score. The lending panel covers four lenders to suit different buyer situations.

The Impreza is the practical entry point into Subaru's AWD lineup: dependable, economical, and more capable in variable conditions than most alternatives in the compact segment. Browse Subaru second hand cars across the full Subaru range at Carma, compare the Impreza against the full Subaru lineup to weigh it against the Forester and Outback, or explore used AWD options across all makes if you are looking beyond the Subaru range.