The 2019 Subaru Impreza Premium serves as the critical mid-tier trim level in the Impreza lineup, balancing essential affordability with key quality-of-life upgrades. When evaluating this vehicle in 2026, buyers pay primarily for the inclusion of the All-Weather Package, roof rails, and an upgraded infotainment interface, which collectively define the value proposition over the base trim.
Understanding the Positioning of the Premium Trim
When the 2019 Subaru Impreza was released, Subaru utilized a tiered strategy to distinguish its entry-level vehicle. The base model provided the core mechanical experience—the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) and the 2.0-liter BOXER engine—but it lacked the functional conveniences modern drivers expect. The Premium trim was designed to bridge the gap between "basic transportation" and "comfortable daily driver."
In the secondary market of 2026, understanding this cost breakdown is essential for both buyers and sellers. You are not just paying for a badge; you are paying for a specific set of hardware and software configurations that were considered premium in 2019. The cost differential at the time of purchase—typically a few thousand dollars above the base model—was heavily weighted toward comfort, connectivity, and utility.
Core Features That Justify the Premium Price Tag
The Premium trim introduced several features that shifted the Impreza from a strictly budget-oriented vehicle to a more versatile compact car.
1. The All-Weather Package
Perhaps the most significant differentiator for the Premium trim is the inclusion of the All-Weather Package as a standard feature. This package includes heated front seats, heated side mirrors, and a windshield wiper de-icer. In colder climates, these features significantly improve safety and comfort. Because Subaru markets itself heavily toward outdoor enthusiasts and residents of snowy regions, this package represents a tangible, high-value addition that justifies the price increase over the base trim.
2. Infotainment and Connectivity
The 2019 Premium model stepped up the audio and connectivity experience. While the base trim featured a smaller, more restricted interface, the Premium trim included the STARLINK 6.5-inch Multimedia Plus system. This system offered features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM Satellite Radio compatibility. In 2026, while the screen size might feel modest compared to newer vehicles, the inclusion of smartphone integration remains the industry standard for usability, making this a "must-have" feature for anyone looking at a used 2019 model.
3. Functional Exterior Enhancements
The Premium trim also included functional exterior hardware that the base model omitted, most notably the roof rails. These rails are essential for owners who intend to add cargo boxes, bike racks, or kayak carriers. For a vehicle that prides itself on being an "adventure-ready" compact, the roof rails effectively change the utility profile of the car. Additionally, the Premium trim generally included upgraded wheels, often transitioning from steel wheels with covers to alloy wheels, which provide both a aesthetic improvement and a slight reduction in unsprung weight.
Comparative Value Analysis
To understand the cost breakdown, it is helpful to look at how these features compare to the other rungs of the 2019 ladder.
| Feature Category | Base Trim | Premium Trim | Sport/Limited Trims |
|---|---|---|---|
| All-Weather Pkg | Not Available | Standard | Standard |
| Infotainment | 6.5" Basic | 6.5" Plus | 8.0" Screen |
| Roof Rails | Not Available | Standard | Standard |
| Wheel Material | Steel | Alloy | Alloy (Upgraded Size) |
| Fog Lights | Not Available | Included | Included |
This table illustrates that the Premium trim is the "sweet spot" for utility. While the Sport and Limited trims provide larger screens and more sophisticated chassis tuning or leather upholstery, they move into a higher price bracket that often competes with larger vehicles. The Premium trim isolates the most practical upgrades—heat, connectivity, and cargo capacity—without the "luxury tax" of the higher trims.
Safety and Technology Costs
Beyond comfort features, a portion of the price for a 2019 Impreza Premium often reflects the optional EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. While EyeSight was sometimes available as an option on the Premium rather than being standard, its presence on a specific used unit significantly impacts its valuation.
EyeSight includes:
- Pre-Collision Braking: Detects obstacles and applies brakes if the driver fails to react.
- Adaptive Cruise Control: Maintains a set distance from the vehicle ahead.
- Lane Departure and Sway Warning: Monitors road position.
When evaluating a 2019 Impreza Premium in 2026, verify if the vehicle is equipped with this suite. The cost of these systems when new was significant, and in the used market, vehicles equipped with EyeSight generally maintain a higher resale value due to the proven safety benefits and potential insurance premium reductions.
Factors Influencing 2026 Valuation
In 2026, the "cost" of the features is no longer just the MSRP from 2019; it is the depreciated value of those features in a used vehicle. Several factors determine if the Premium trim is the right financial choice for a buyer today:
- Maintenance of Tech: Older infotainment systems can sometimes suffer from screen delamination or port failure. A vehicle that has had its head unit updated or serviced by the dealer has more "value" than one that hasn't.
- Wear on Heated Components: The All-Weather Package components are durable, but the heating elements in seats can fail over time. Checking the functionality of these specific items is a vital part of verifying the value of the Premium upgrade.
- Rust and Exposure: Because the Premium is often used in the environments that require the All-Weather Package (snow, salt, rain), the condition of the roof rail mounting points and the undercarriage is a major factor in whether the original "premium" features remain an asset or have become a liability.
Common Misconceptions About the Trim
One common error potential buyers make is assuming the Premium trim includes a more powerful engine. It does not. The 2019 Impreza lineup uses the same 2.0-liter, 152-horsepower engine across the base, Premium, and Limited trims. When you pay for the Premium, you are exclusively paying for creature comforts and utility, not performance. If a seller is inflating the price of a Premium trim by claiming it is "faster" or "sportier" than the base model, they are misrepresenting the mechanical facts. The Sport trim, by contrast, did include specific suspension tuning and a "Sport" mode for the CVT, which differentiates it from the Premium.
Is the Premium Trim Worth the Investment?
The decision to choose a 2019 Impreza Premium over a base model or an older Sport trim depends on your specific needs. If you live in a region with four distinct seasons, the heated seats and side mirrors of the All-Weather Package are worth the premium alone. They provide a level of daily comfort that is difficult to replicate with aftermarket modifications.
Furthermore, because modern life necessitates high levels of connectivity, the inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on the 6.5-inch screen is a non-negotiable feature for many drivers. If you purchase a base model, you would likely spend several hundred dollars and significant time installing an aftermarket head unit to achieve the same functionality found in the Premium. By opting for the Premium trim, you are essentially paying for "factory-integrated" convenience that has been tested for reliability within the vehicle's electrical architecture.
Maintenance Considerations for Premium Features
Owning a feature-rich trim level comes with the responsibility of maintaining those specific systems. The 2019 Subaru Impreza Premium is generally reliable, but owners should be aware of the following:
- Electrical Load: The All-Weather Package draws power from the alternator. Ensuring the battery is in good health is critical for the long-term operation of the seat heaters and wiper de-icers.
- Sunroof Maintenance: Many Premium models were equipped with the optional sunroof. If your unit has this, ensure the drainage tracks are cleared regularly. Clogged drains can lead to water intrusion, which can damage the interior upholstery and electronics—a significant cost burden that negates the value of the trim.
- Software Updates: Subaru periodically issued firmware updates for the STARLINK infotainment system to improve stability and connectivity with newer smartphones. Always check with a local Subaru service center to see if your specific VIN has any outstanding software patches that could improve the "Premium" experience.
Practical Next Steps for Buyers
If you are currently in the market for a 2019 Subaru Impreza Premium, your goal should be to verify that the "premium" features are in full working order.
- Verify the VIN: Use the official Subaru VIN lookup tool to confirm the exact trim level and installed package list.
- Test the Heat: In your test drive, activate the seat heaters and wait for the warm sensation. Test the rear defroster and check that the side mirrors warm up to touch.
- Inspect the Rails: Check the roof rail gaskets for cracks or signs of seal failure. These are often exposed to the elements and can be a point of water ingress if the rubber has perished.
- Interface Sync: Bring your phone and a high-quality data cable. Connect it to the USB port to ensure that the head unit recognizes the device immediately and that audio quality is consistent.
The 2019 Subaru Impreza Premium is a balanced vehicle. By prioritizing utility over excessive luxury, Subaru created a trim that remains highly relevant and functional for daily use in 2026. Understanding that you are paying for reliability, weather-ready hardware, and essential connectivity will help you make a value-driven decision that aligns with your budget and lifestyle.
