Why the Subaru Impreza Turbo is still a popular Jap import?

The Impreza put Subaru on the map in the U.K. Before this rally-bred performance vehicle came along, Subaru’s were a farmers favourite rather than supercar baiters. In the early days of its existence, few people were aware of Subaru’s underlying potential and this took a toll on its overall sales numbers. The formidable competition at that came from the Lancia Delta and Escort Cosworth, which is probably one of the reasons why the Subaru Impreza Turbo remained a big secret for several years. This secret however was gradually revealed.

The U.K. received its first Subaru Impreza in March of 1994, and this model received no physical or design improvements whatsoever until the 1997 model hit showrooms at the end of 1996. The 1997 model showcased several much needed aesthetic and mechanical improvements such as a smaller turbo and higher compression ratio, which didn’t downplay the turbo, but rather accelerated the torque from 201bft to 214bft. This created a booming jap import stream into the UK not too mention the modified versions on the UK roads. This has led to consumers having to purchase modified car insurance or traders insurance for people in the motor trade business.

Simultaneously, the suspension was improved to feature a thicker rear anti-roll bar, while the brakes displayed more stopping power owing to the all new meatier callipers. The interior of the Subaru Impreza didn’t disappoint either, and was appointed with racy seats, while the model that followed arrived with a momo steering wheel, shorter throw gear lever, standard 16” alloys, passenger airbag and a white dial dash.

The 1999 model was considerably improved with a revamped engine that delivered an extra 7bhp, new front brakes with four pot callipers, vented rear discs and a firmer suspension. These improvements resulted in a £1200 higher price tag, but your investment was now protected with a Thatcham mobilizer/alarm. The 2000 year model was the last of the Subaru Impreza Turbo’s, and seen subtle changes such as colour keyed door handles and mirrors and an extra spoke in the wheel design.

There were however a few special edition models introduced during the years, first of which was the 200 Prodrive Series McRae editions released in the summer of 1995. The Terzo (Italian for ‘third’) was produced was produced to mark Subaru’s remarkable third world rally championship in 1997. All of these were highlighted with blue and gold wheels complete with Alcantra and air-con interior trims.

The underpinnings were common to all special edition models, but there were three new special models that were distinct namely 22B, RB5 and the Moniker. In regards to its driving dynamics, the raw power of the Impreza can be felt from the very first time you start the engine. But it’s not all about the speed of these vehicles, the Impreza impresses in terms of handling as well.

Bottom line is that even when first introduced, the Impreza was a bargain and considering its gradual deprecation since its first models, investing in this grey import today is arguably an unrivalled deal today as well. You can probably find a Subaru Impreza Turbo in fair condition for under £1000 if you look in the right place that is!