2023 Subaru Impreza — US Buyer’s Guide
Scope: MY2023 in US. These figures are not automatically transferable to other countries or trims.
What the 2023 vehicle actually was
For US shoppers, the 2023 Impreza has an easily missed advantage: it is one of the last examples of the preceding generation before Subaru’s model-year 2024 changeover. It makes a practical comparison with compact FWD hatchbacks and sedans because standard Subaru all-wheel drive was paired with a conventional, naturally aspirated flat-four rather than a turbo performance engine.
Subaru’s MY2023 owner resources specify a 2.0-litre engine with 152 hp and 145 lb-ft on the referenced configurations, with a five-speed manual documented in applicable versions. A buyer should verify the transmission fitted to the actual car, because Subaru also marketed automatic/CVT grades; performance and EPA economy cannot be copied from one to the other.
Documented 2023 technical snapshot
| Year and market | 2023; US (MY2023) |
|---|---|
| Generation / lineage | fifth-generation GT/GK Impreza before 2024 redesign |
| Powertrain | 2.0-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder in relevant 2023 US 2.0i configurations |
| Claimed output | 152 hp at 6,000 rpm and 145 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm |
| Transmission and drive | Five-speed manual on documented base/sport configurations; other US CVT trims require matching VIN |
| Consumption / range | Fuel-economy estimates transmission-specific; verify exact US EPA variant |
Model-year distinction: The US MY2023 Impreza remained the outgoing generation; the all-new sixth-generation Impreza for MY2024 must not be retroactively assigned to 2023.
Strengths and ownership compromises
The Impreza proposition revolves around year-round all-wheel traction, straightforward cabin use and a low passenger-car seating position. Drivers wanting a higher road view may be happier with a Crosstrek; those choosing the Impreza should value the handling and roof-height difference rather than expect an SUV’s ground clearance.
Used buyer checks in 2026
Check the service schedule for the boxer engine, inspect tyres for matching size and uneven wear on the AWD system, and test manual-clutch feel or CVT operation as appropriate. Diagnose any oil or coolant warning with a competent mechanic, not internet fault rankings. Safety equipment also depends on actual transmission and grade.
Alternatives and who should consider it
The Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla are natural US alternatives; do not treat the next-generation MY2024 Impreza’s revised trim range as representative of the MY2023 vehicle.
Factory specifications, test-cycle figures and original equipment are region- and grade-specific; verify the individual vehicle and official service eligibility using its VIN. This editorial is a buying framework, not a road test or an assertion of long-term failure rates.
Sources and Further Reading
- Subaru USA MY2023 Owner Resources — 2023 vehicle and technical source
- Subaru USA — MY2023 Impreza brochure — Supporting market documentation