Confused by nicknames of Impreza models? Then this quick guide should help in explaining the various Impreza nicknames and what model years they related to. Mainly relevant to the UK / Euro market.
Impreza 1993-2000 – “Classic”
Produced in 1993, and sold throughout the world in both saloon and wagon (estate) bodystyles with both turbo charged and naturally aspirated engines. Retired in 2000 and replaced with the Bugeye.
Impreza 2001-2002 – “Bugeye”
So called because of its bug-like eyes. Available in various forms such as the WRX, STI and GX (normally aspirated) versions and again in both saloon and wagon forms. Some loved it but many hated the new look and it was quickly replaced by Subaru in 2003 for the Blobeye.
Impreza 2003-2005 -“Blobeye”
Replaced the poor selling Bugeye, essentially the same car with a revised front end with a blob like lights. Generally regarded as an improvement and was a best seller for Subaru. Again came in the usual WRX, STI and non-turbo forms plus various special editions, such as S203, and the WR1.
Impreza 2006-2007 – “Hawkeye”
Again, another facelift with an engine change from 2.0 to 2.5L for many countries. Well received generally and came in the usual WRX, STI and normally aspirated forms, in both saloon and wagon. The Japanese still kept the 2.0 engines. Many special editions, such as the RB320, GB270 etc – see our post on Special Editions for more.
Impreza 2008-2012 – “Hatchback”
Subaru maybe decided it was time to compete in the hatchback market with the brand new hatchback range, featuring the usual WRX and STI models alongside the normally aspirated versions. The WRX and STI kept the same engines as the Hawkeye 2.5 litres. The hatchback style was quite controversial and so in 2011 Subaru produced effectively the same car but in saloon form.
Impreza 2011-2012 – “Saloon”
Essentially the same as the earlier hatchback models, but with a boot/trunk saloon style. No estate / wagons were made. This model was replaced in 2014 with the all new model.
2014 WRX STI
Brand new Peanut Eye / Eagle Eye released to replace the Saloon model, but Subaru decided it was time to drop the Impreza name, so was simply the WRX STI. Only the STI was available in the UK and much of Europe, whereas the USA and other countries got the WRX version with a brand new engine. Various special editions released. Ceased being imports into the UK in 2018, with the last model sold being branded the Final Edition.