The 2009 Subaru Impreza sedan offers standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, competitive fuel economy around 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for base automatic models, and strong long-term value as an affordable, practical used compact car.
Evaluating a used compact car from the late 2000s requires looking past showroom marketing to understand how specifications, real-world efficiency, and mechanical durability translate into everyday ownership value. The 2009 model year represents the second year of the third-generation Impreza platform (designated GE for the sedan and GH for the hatchback). During this era, Subaru transitioned the Impreza from a quirky, aggressively styled rally-bred compact into a more mainstream, family-friendly vehicle without entirely abandoning its mechanical roots.
For buyers navigating the used car market, the 2009 Impreza sedan presents a compelling proposition. It bridges the gap between light utility and commuter economy, providing security in inclement weather via all-wheel drive while maintaining a manageable footprint and relatively low maintenance overhead.
Evolution and Identity of the 2009 Subaru Impreza Sedan
The 2009 Subaru Impreza sedan arrived during a period of transition for the Japanese automaker. Redesigned completely for the 2008 model year, the third-generation Impreza adopted a slightly longer wheelbase, wider track, and a more conventional styling language compared to its bug-eye and hawk-eye predecessors. The sedan variant, in particular, was introduced to satisfy traditional buyers who preferred a traditional three-box trunk over the five-door hatchback configuration, addressing criticisms that the initial third-generation launch lacked a dedicated sedan option at rollout.
Positioned squarely in the compact segment, the 2009 Impreza competed against heavyweights like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3. However, Subaru carved out a distinct market niche by making its signature Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system standard equipment across every single trim level. This mechanical layout set it apart from front-wheel-drive competitors, making the Impreza a frequent choice for drivers residing in regions with heavy snowfall, frequent rainfall, or unpaved rural roads.
The lineup for the sedan was streamlined compared to the hatchback, focusing primarily on naturally aspirated trims alongside the high-performance WRX variants. For everyday buyers, understanding the distinction between the standard 2.5i models and the turbocharged performance models is critical, as their fuel economy, maintenance requirements, and insurance costs vary significantly.
Detailed Technical Specifications
Beneath the modest exterior sheet metal, the 2009 Impreza sedan relies on Subaru's signature horizontally opposed "boxer" engine architecture. This layout places the cylinders flat, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity and contributing to stable handling characteristics.
Powertrain and Performance Specs
The standard powerplant for the 2009 Impreza 2.5i sedan is a 2.5-liter naturally aspirated SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) 4-cylinder boxer engine, designated internally as the EJ253.
- Horsepower: 170 hp at 6,000 rpm
- Torque: 170 lb-ft at 4,400 rpm
- Valvetrain: i-AVLS (Active Valve Lift System)
- Block/Head Material: Aluminum alloy / Aluminum alloy
- Fuel Induction: Multi-point sequential port fuel injection
Transmission choices for the base 2.5i included a 5-speed manual transmission with hill-holder clutch functionality or a traditional 4-speed electronic automatic transmission with manual shift control.
For buyers looking at the performance-oriented WRX sedan, the specification changes dramatically:
- Engine: 2.5-liter turbocharged DOHC intercooled boxer 4-cylinder (EJ255)
- Horsepower: 224 hp at 5,200 rpm
- Torque: 226 lb-ft at 2,800β3,600 rpm
- Transmission: 5-speed manual only for the standard WRX sedan
Chassis, Suspension, and Dimensions
The third-generation Impreza moved away from the station-wagon-derived platform of the past toward a dedicated chassis featuring a four-wheel independent suspension setup.
- Front Suspension: MacPherson strut with lower L-arm, coil springs, and stabilizer bar
- Rear Suspension: Double-wishbone design with coil springs and stabilizer bar
- Steering System: Power-assisted rack-and-pinion
- Braking System: Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes (ventilated front, solid rear) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
- Wheelbase: 103.1 inches
- Overall Length: 180.3 inches
- Width: 68.5 inches
- Height: 58.1 inches
- Curb Weight: Approximately 3,010 to 3,120 lbs depending on transmission and trim
Fuel Economy and Real-World Efficiency
Fuel economy is often a deciding factor for buyers considering older all-wheel-drive vehicles. Because power must be routed to all four wheels constantly, AWD systems generally impose a fuel consumption penalty compared to front-wheel-drive alternatives of the same vintage.
Following the EPA's revision of fuel economy testing methods implemented for the 2008 model year onward, the official ratings for the 2009 Impreza sedan reflect realistic driving habits.
| Model / Trim | Transmission | EPA City (mpg) | EPA Highway (mpg) | EPA Combined (mpg) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impreza 2.5i | 5-Speed Manual | 20 | 26 | 22 |
| Impreza 2.5i | 4-Speed Automatic | 20 | 26 | 22 |
| Impreza WRX | 5-Speed Manual | 19 | 24 | 21 |
Factors Impacting Real-World Mileage
While the EPA figures provide a baseline, owners of the 2009 Impreza sedan frequently report variations based on maintenance history and driving style.
- All-Wheel-Drive Drag: Unlike part-time systems that decouple the rear axle during cruising, Subaru's Symmetrical AWD engages all four wheels continuously, resulting in constant mechanical friction.
- Aging Oxygen Sensors and Spark Plugs: High-mileage examples often suffer from degraded oxygen sensors or worn iridium spark plugs, which can quietly drop fuel efficiency by 10 to 15 percent.
- Rolling Resistance: Upgrading to heavier, wider aftermarket wheels or aggressive all-terrain tires increases rotational mass, directly impacting highway efficiency.
Assessing Long-Term Value and Ownership Costs
When evaluating the financial viability of purchasing or maintaining a 2009 Impreza sedan, value extends beyond the initial purchase price. Buyers must weigh depreciation curves, repair frequencies, and safety credentials.
Initial Purchase Price vs. Resale Stability
Because compact sedans with standard all-wheel drive remain in high demand for winter climates, the 2009 Impreza holds its residual value relatively well for a vehicle of its age. However, market pricing varies significantly based on regional demand, vehicle history reports, and odometer readings. Clean, rust-free examples with documented maintenance records frequently command a premium over front-wheel-drive rivals like the Toyota Corolla or Nissan Sentra from the same year.
Common Mechanical Considerations and Maintenance
Owning an EJ-series engine requires proactive maintenance awareness. Prospective buyers and current owners should keep several mechanical realities in mind:
- Head Gasket Integrity: Naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engines from this era can occasionally experience external oil or coolant leaks at the head gaskets around the 100,000 to 150,000-mile mark. Inspecting the engine block service history for prior head gasket replacement is essential.
- Timing Belt Service: The EJ253 engine utilizes a rubber timing belt that requires replacement every 105,000 miles or 105 months. Neglecting this maintenance interval risks catastrophic interference-engine failure.
- Suspension Bushings: Rubber components in the double-wishbone rear suspension and front control arms frequently dry-crack and wear out over time, leading to clunking noises and vague steering feedback.
Safety Ratings and Structural Protection
The 2009 Impreza sedan performed well in period safety testing, making it an appealing option for budget-conscious commuters or young drivers.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) awarded the third-generation Impreza strong marks, naming it a Top Safety Pick in its category for structure and crashworthiness. Standard safety equipment includes front-seat side-impact airbags, side-curtain airbags spanning both rows, active front head restraints, and 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes.
Comparing the 2009 Impreza Sedan to Competitors
To fully understand the value proposition of the 2009 Impreza sedan, it helps to compare it directly against its primary contemporary rivals in the compact segment.
Subaru Impreza 2.5i vs. Honda Civic LX (2009)
- Drivetrain: The Civic relies on front-wheel drive, whereas the Impreza features standard all-wheel drive.
- Fuel Economy: The Civic LX automatic achieves a superior 25 mpg city / 36 mpg highway, easily outpacing the Impreza's 20/26 mpg rating.
- Interior Space: Both offer comparable passenger volumes, but the Civic features a larger trunk opening and a more futuristic dashboard layout, while the Impreza cabin leans toward utilitarian simplicity.
- Verdict: Choose the Civic for maximum fuel economy and low running costs; choose the Impreza for superior traction in snow and rain.
Subaru Impreza 2.5i vs. Toyota Corolla LE (2009)
- Drivetrain: Toyota utilizes front-wheel drive paired with a 1.8-liter or 2.4-liter engine.
- Reliability: The Corolla is renowned for bulletproof mechanical longevity with minimal unexpected failures, whereas the Impreza demands stricter adherence to fluid and belt replacement schedules.
- Handling: The Impreza provides more communicative steering and planted high-speed stability due to its lower center of gravity and AWD layout.
- Verdict: The Corolla wins on appliance-like reliability, but the Impreza offers a more engaging and secure driving dynamic in adverse weather.
Practical Recommendations for Prospective Buyers
Purchasing a used 2009 Impreza sedan requires a methodical inspection process. Because these vehicles are frequently purchased by outdoor enthusiasts or drivers in snowy climates, structural rust and neglected maintenance are the primary risk factors.
- Verify Timing Belt Status: Ask the seller for documentary proof that the timing belt, water pump, and tensioner pulleys were changed. If service records are missing, budget immediately for this maintenance service to protect the engine.
- Inspect the Undercarriage: Check the subframes, rocker panels, and suspension components for excessive rust, particularly on vehicles sourced from northern "rust belt" states where road salt is heavily utilized during winter months.
- Check Oil Levels Regularly: Boxer engines can naturally consume small amounts of oil between changes. Establishing a habit of checking the dipstick every fuel fill-up prevents run-dry scenarios that can damage the valvetrain.
- Test Drive the AWD System: Ensure the vehicle drives smoothly through tight turns in a parking lot. A binding or shuddering sensation during low-speed turns often indicates a failing center differential or mismatched tire wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2009 Subaru Impreza sedan a reliable used car?
Yes, the 2009 Impreza sedan is generally considered reliable if it has received regular, documented maintenance. Its mechanical components are robust, but it requires strict adherence to fluid changes, spark plug replacements, and the 105,000-mile timing belt service interval to avoid costly repairs.
Can the 2009 Impreza sedan run on regular unleaded gasoline?
Yes, the standard naturally aspirated 2.5-liter engine in the Impreza 2.5i is designed to run safely on standard 87-octane regular unleaded gasoline. However, the turbocharged WRX variant specifically requires 91-octane premium fuel to prevent harmful engine detonation.
How does the all-wheel-drive system affect winter driving?
Subaruβs Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive continuously transfers power to all four wheels, optimizing traction on snow, ice, and wet pavement. While it significantly enhances acceleration and directional stability in winter weather, it does not shorten stopping distances, meaning proper winter tires remain essential.
What are the most common problems with the 2009 Impreza?
The most frequently reported issues for this model year include external head gasket oil leaks on high-mileage naturally aspirated engines, wear in the suspension bushings and wheel bearings, and occasional interior trim rattles stemming from the hard plastics used in the third-generation redesign.
Does the 2009 Impreza sedan have folding rear seats?
Yes, the 2009 Impreza sedan features 60/40 split-folding rear seatbacks. This design allows owners to fold down part or all of the rear bench to pass longer items through the cabin into the trunk space, adding versatility that rivals some compact hatchbacks.
