I’ve always loved rallying. The thrill of speed, the rush of adrenaline, the demanding precision—it’s the kind of passion that shapes dreams.
During my university days from 1994 to 1998, I’d dream of owning a Subaru Impreza, even praying for it without fail. Back then, the Subaru Impreza Version 5 STi was the ultimate car in my eyes, a legend of the rally scene.
I set my sights on owning one before I turned 30, but life had other plans.
When I finally bought a brand new Impreza in 2007, I was 32. But it wasn’t just any Impreza—I had the Version 9 STi, a powerhouse that was well worth the wait.
The Subaru Impreza holds a rich history as a rally icon, dating back to its debut in 1992.
Introduced as Subaru’s entry into the world of competitive motorsport, it quickly rose to prominence thanks to its powerful Boxer engine and the symmetrical all-wheel-drive system that became its signature.
The Impreza won multiple World Rally Championships, driven by legends like Colin McRae and Richard Burns, and carved a lasting legacy as a fierce competitor on the world stage.
Its blend of power, agility, and reliability helped cement its reputation among driving enthusiasts, making it more than just a car—it became a symbol of Subaru’s rally heritage.
When I first set my sights on the Impreza during my university days from 1994 to 1998, this iconic history was one of the many reasons I dreamed of owning one.
Throughout those years, I held onto that dream, knowing that the Impreza STi was the car I wanted—one that combined the history of the rally world with incredible engineering.
Back then, the Version 5 STi was making headlines, while Mitsubishi’s Evolution was also gaining attention. But for me, Subaru’s 50:50 weight distribution, all-wheel drive, and the signature Boxer engine gave it an edge that I couldn’t ignore.
Finally, in 2007, I made that dream a reality with the Version 9 STi, a car that not only lived up to my expectations but exceeded them.
During my career with General Motors Asia Pacific, I was fortunate to experience the best in performance driving.
I trained in high-performance courses, including the Australian V8 Supercar program, where I was set to drive a Holden in the Malaysia Millennium Race. Although the project was eventually called off, it was another valuable experience, especially when I was also able to train with Subaru. That experience reinforced my love for the Impreza, its handling, and its raw capability.
But it was also during this time that I trained with Subaru, solidifying my admiration for the Impreza’s capabilities.
My love for the Impreza deepened as I saw just how much it could handle—tough courses, sharp turns, and unpredictable terrains were no match for its engineering.
My decision was further cemented in 2003 when I attended the Subaru Rally Course in Australia. There, I got a firsthand look at just how capable the Impreza was. This wasn’t just a car; it was a driving experience designed for pure thrill and control.
My time with General Motors Asia Pacific, based in Rayong, Thailand in 2002-2005 only deepened my respect for performance vehicles. I was involved in CKD (Completely Knocked Down) projects.
The Things I Love About The Impreza
The Subaru Impreza brings several performance qualities that have made it a rally legend and a joy for driving enthusiasts:
1. Balanced Weight Distribution (50:50):
The Subaru Impreza’s near-perfect weight distribution is one of the car’s defining features.
This balance provides stability, particularly in turns and on rough terrains, which gives it an edge over other vehicles in its class. It’s one of the reasons why the Impreza performs so well in rally conditions.
2. Sharp, Responsive Handling:
The crisp handling of the Impreza is a standout feature. With its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, it offers excellent grip and precision.
This design allows drivers to feel in control, even at high speeds or in challenging conditions.
3. Torque and Power:
Out of the box, the Impreza STi boasted a solid 280 bhp, which was plenty for most situations.
However, I opted to increase this to 320 bhp for that extra punch, making the car even more exhilarating. The turbocharged Boxer engine delivers power consistently, making for an effortlessly thrilling drive.
4. Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive:
Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system is legendary. Its unique layout, combined with the flat Boxer engine, keeps the center of gravity low, helping to maintain balance and providing strong traction.
It’s especially beneficial in adverse conditions, a key reason Subaru dominates in rally racing.
5. Reliability:
The Impreza has a reputation for durability and longevity, particularly under tough conditions.
It’s a car that can take a beating, which makes it not only reliable but ideal for rallying, where durability is tested at every turn.
What Others Say About the Subaru Impreza
Auto journalists and driving enthusiasts alike have praised the Subaru Impreza for its design and performance. Here’s a look at what some of them have to say:
Top Gear commented, “The Impreza is a driver’s car in every sense. Its handling is intuitive, and it feels like it’s hardwired to the driver’s instincts. There’s a reason it became a rally icon.”
Car and Driver remarked, “The Impreza STi’s Boxer engine, paired with Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system, makes for a potent combination. This is a car that feels as though it was made for performance enthusiasts.”
Evo Magazine wrote, “The Impreza is more than just a car. It’s a machine that connects with the road, offering an experience that’s hard to match. Few cars at this price point deliver the same balance of power, performance, and poise.”
Owning the Subaru Impreza isn’t just about having a car; it’s about having a piece of rally heritage.
Every time I get behind the wheel, I feel a connection to that dream I held onto during my university days.
The Impreza has been more than a vehicle for me—it’s been an enduring reminder of persistence, passion, and the power of dreams fulfilled.
Incredible Driving Experiences with the Subaru Impreza
Driving the Subaru Impreza has offered some unforgettable experiences that perfectly encapsulate why I love this car.
One of my most memorable drives was taking the Impreza on winding mountain roads, where its precise handling and balance shined.
The car’s 50:50 weight distribution made it effortless to control on sharp curves, feeling almost like an extension of myself.
The acceleration was seamless, the all-wheel-drive system offering complete confidence, even on loose or wet surfaces.
Another standout experience was testing the upgraded 320 bhp on open roads.
The additional power gave it an extra kick that brought the car to life, making each drive an exhilarating experience.
The Impreza’s torque, combined with the low center of gravity from its Boxer engine, allows it to hug the road with remarkable stability.
And whether on mountain roads, long stretches of highway, or rally-inspired dirt trails, the Impreza delivered an experience that was second to none.
The Subaru Impreza is more than just a vehicle—it’s a gateway to experiences and memories that last a lifetime.
Every drive is a reminder of its rally heritage, an embodiment of the years I spent dreaming about it, and a testament to Subaru’s commitment to performance and quality.
The Impreza’s engineering—its balance, power, and durability—continues to deliver unmatched driving pleasure. I can’t imagine my life without this incredible machine.
For me, the Impreza is a symbol of passion, persistence, and the thrill of the open road—a car that will forever hold a place in my heart.
Then I sold off the Impreza in 2011 and bought Porsche Carrera 997 PDK in 2011. InsyAllah I shall find the time to write about it too.
