Overview
The 2019 Subaru Impreza is a compact car offered as a 4-door sedan or 5-door hatchback, known for standard all-wheel drive and everyday practicality. It’s ideal for commuters, students, and drivers in snowy or rainy climates who want extra traction without moving up to a larger SUV. This model sits in the value-focused end of the compact segment, competing with cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3 while standing out for AWD and a comfortable ride. The 2019 model is part of the fifth-generation Impreza introduced for 2017, so it benefits from the newer global platform design and updated safety tech.
Key Features
1) Standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: One of the few compact cars with AWD standard across trims, improving stability in poor weather.
2) 2.0L BOXER Engine: A 2.0-liter flat-four (BOXER) engine producing about 152 hp, paired with either a 5-speed manual (on select trims) or a Lineartronic CVT automatic.
3) Excellent Fuel Economy for an AWD Compact: Many CVT-equipped models are commonly rated around 28–31 mpg combined depending on body style and trim, making it efficient for an AWD vehicle.
4) Subaru EyeSight Driver Assist (available): On many trims with the CVT, EyeSight adds features like adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure/wander alerts.
5) Practical Cabin and Cargo Space: The hatchback is especially versatile, with a low lift-over height and easy-fold rear seats for small families, pets, and outdoor gear.
Common Issues & Reliability
Drivers searching “2019 Subaru Impreza reliability” will generally find the Impreza to be a solid, long-lasting compact car when maintained, but there are a few “2019 Subaru Impreza problems” and “2019 Subaru Impreza common issues” that show up repeatedly in owner complaints.
1) Infotainment and Bluetooth glitches: A common complaint involves the Starlink head unit freezing, random reboots, laggy touch response, or Bluetooth pairing/audio dropouts. These issues can appear early (often within the first 10,000–30,000 miles) and may require software updates, a head unit replacement, or troubleshooting of phone compatibility.
2) Windshield cracking/chips and glass sensitivity: Some owners report windshields that seem prone to cracking from small impacts. This can happen at varying mileage and is often more about glass durability and road conditions than mechanical reliability, but it’s a frequent real-world annoyance.
3) CVT behavior concerns (not always failure): The Lineartronic CVT can feel “rubber band” sluggish under hard acceleration, and some owners report shuddering, hesitation, or unusual noises. In many cases this is drivability-related, but any persistent shudder or delayed engagement should be inspected promptly, especially if it worsens around 40,000–80,000 miles.
4) Oil consumption or seepage (less common, but watch for it): While not universal, some owners report needing to add oil between changes or noticing minor seepage. Checking oil level regularly is important on higher-mileage vehicles or those with inconsistent service history.