🇩🇪 Deutsch
Subaru · Compact · 2008–2011

Subaru Impreza GE

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 1 engine variants

Body Variants

The Subaru Impreza GE is available as Limousine and Schrägheck — choose your body type for specific insurance data:

Limousine
1 Engines
view Limousine →
Schrägheck
1 Engines
view Schrägheck →

Generations

Engine Overview

The Subaru Impreza GE is available with one engine variant at 165 hp.

2.5L NA · Benziner· 170 PS
2008 2011
Be Careful 2 weaknesses

The Subaru 2.5L NA (Benziner, 170 PS) has the EJ253 (2.5L NA) — rated: "Be Careful", 2 known weaknesses.

Vehicle Weaknesses

WeaknessCost
!Recall: Brake Light Switch

Recall WUE-90 (2008–2017): silicone-based household spray residue on switch contacts prevents brake lights from illuminating. CVT vehicles cannot be shifted out of Park.

Symptoms: Brake lights don't illuminate, CVT stuck in Park, keyless vehicles won't start
from 60,000 km
Ad brake light switch Subaru Impreza GEbrake lamp switch Subaru WUE-90
 Low
NHTSA Owner Complaints
Below Average
424 complaints · 2008–2011
Powertrain
111
Airbags
78 ⚠ 12
Body Structure
55 ⚠ 1
Brakes
55 ⚠ 6
Engine & Cooling
48 ⚠ 1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Powertrain (111 complaints)
⚠ Airbags (78 complaints)
⚠ Body Structure (55 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-03

Alternatives

Same Segment

Honda Insight ZE2

Kompaktklasse (2009–2014)

Same Segment

Mazda 3 BL

Kompaktklasse (2009–2013)

Same Segment

Suzuki SX4 I-FL

Kompaktklasse (2009–2014)

Same Segment

Toyota Prius XW30

Kompaktklasse (2009–2015)

Same Segment

BMW 1er Cabrio E88

Kompaktklasse (2008–2013)

Same Segment

Kia Cerato TD

Kompaktklasse (2008–2013)

Known Problems and Issues

A total of 6 weaknesses have been documented for the Subaru Impreza GE (2008–2011) — 2 engine-related and 4 vehicle-related. Typical issues affect Electronics, Suspension, Brakes, Gearbox.

Impreza (EJ253, 2008–2011) — Be Careful: Head Gasket — External Oil/Coolant Leak, Slightly Elevated Oil Consumption. Power: 170 PS.

What to watch out for with the Subaru Impreza? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Subaru Impreza GE have? +
The Subaru Impreza GE has 2 known engine weaknesses and 4 vehicle weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Subaru Impreza GE? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: EJ253 (2.5L NA). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the EJ253 (2.5L NA).
Which Subaru Impreza GE engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Subaru Impreza GE — rated: "Decent". {description} Standard AWD in a compact — nobody else offers this at the same price. No sporting character, but a compelling argument in snow and rain. The base Subaru.
Is the Subaru Impreza GE worth buying used? +
The Subaru Impreza GE requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Subaru Impreza GE? +
The Subaru Impreza GE is available with engine variants from 165 to 173 hp. Petrol: EJ253 (2.5L NA).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee