1996 Subaru Impreza LX review from North America

First thing I notice to go wrong was the power steering was leaking. Which I found out was coming from the power steering reservoir. Subaru fixed this in their later models by changing the design. Simple to fix with some Stop Leak, needed only a few drops and problem was solved.

Second was on account of my own fault, I couldn't find a power lead for my radio while installing it and blew the illumination control unit. Subaru charges 100 dollars for this, so I routed the lights to work without it.

Well I didn't have this problem, the oil pump gaskets were leaking before I bought it and the dealer had them replaced which is suggested at 100k miles.

If I ever want more power there is a nice amount of choices to go with, all EJ engines including the EJ20t and EJ25t (found in the WRX and STI) are swappable. So when the engine fails I can see the brighter side of it, if it ever fails.

Cockpit or interior is well designed, no noises. Cup holder becomes a pain if you eat fast food, blocking the A/C switches.

Not that fast, but faster than you would think with only 135hp with AWD. When I went from my V6 155hp 185lb torque grand am, I didn't notice that much of a slower ride, just passing up hills and it seems impossible to spin the tires due to AWD.

Snow isn't a problem unless you try to drive over a feet of it. Meant my first snow fall with my Subaru here recently and it was about 10 or so inches and I had no problems. Other cars where having troubles at lights and getting stuck, while the impreza didn't get stuck at all. Just watch turns like you would with any other car.

My Impreza LX has all wheel disc brakes as well, now I have heard other Subaru owners say there's are drum in the back I some how have rear disc brakes which pleases me since they are easier to replace.

Re-sell value seems to stay with this car which makes me feel like I bought a good buy.

Impreza's that aren't 5 door seem to be hard to find in America even on the road for the year models of 93-01 so it can make you feel like you drive an exotic at times.

The design of the exterior is well done too, especially if it comes with a spoiler.