261 hp @ 6000 rpm (approximate for US market STI variant)
Ej207 Torque:
250 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (approximate for US market STI variant)
Fuel System
Fuel Delivery:
Multi-point fuel injection (MPI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended for WRX/STI)
🔧 Transmission
Standard
Manual Transmission:
5-speed manual (standard on NA, WRX), 6-speed manual (STI)
Optional
Automatic Transmission:
4-speed automatic (available on some naturally aspirated models)
Features
AWD System:
Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center differential (manual) or electronically controlled center differential (automatic).
Sti Differentials:
Driver Controlled Center Differential (DCCD) on STI models.
📐 Dimensions
Exterior
Overall Length Sedan:
173.4 inches (4405 mm)
Overall Length Wagon:
174.2 inches (4425 mm)
Overall Width:
66.9 inches (1700 mm)
Overall Height Sedan:
55.1 inches (1400 mm)
Overall Height Wagon:
56.5 inches (1435 mm)
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2575 mm)
Weights
Curb Weight Sedan:
2840-3200 lbs (1288-1451 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain
Curb Weight Wagon:
2900-3300 lbs (1315-1497 kg) depending on trim and drivetrain
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
NHTSA Frontal Driver Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
NHTSA Frontal Passenger Impact:
Good (for models equipped with side airbags)
Active Features
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
AWD:
Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provides enhanced traction and stability.
Passive Features
Airbags:
Front driver and passenger airbags. Optional side airbags and curtain airbags available on some trims.
Seat Belts:
3-point front and rear seat belts with pretensioners.
Child Seat Anchors:
LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) system.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Premium audio systems available on higher trims.
Display:
Basic dashboard display for audio and climate controls. No integrated navigation or large color screens.
Driver Assistance
Cruise Control:
Standard cruise control on most models.
Traction Control:
Traction control system (TCS) available on some models, particularly WRX/STI.
Connectivity
Auxiliary Input:
No factory auxiliary input or USB ports standard.
Bluetooth:
Not available from the factory.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,750 miles or 3 months (severe driving) / 7,500 miles or 6 months (normal driving), consult manual for specifics.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Every 105,000 miles or 7 years (for EJ251 and EJ205 engines). Refer to manual for EJ207.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 (API SG or higher) or SAE 10W-30 (API SG or higher) - consult manual for specific viscosity recommendations based on climate.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.8 US quarts (4.5 liters) with filter for 2.5L; 4.0 US quarts (3.8 liters) with filter for 2.0L.
Coolant Type:
Subaru Super Coolant (Blue) or equivalent silicate-free antifreeze/coolant.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 SAE 75W-90 gear oil.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
Subaru ATF-HP or equivalent DEXRON-III H/MERCON approved fluid.
Known Issues
Head Gasket Leaks:
While less prevalent in the EJ205/EJ207 than some other EJ variants, head gasket leaks can still occur. The EJ251 is more prone to this issue.
Turbocharger Failure:
On WRX models, turbocharger issues can arise from lack of proper warm-up/cool-down or oil starvation. Intercooler piping leaks are also common.
Suspension Wear:
Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, leading to noise and handling degradation.
Clutch Wear:
Performance driving can accelerate clutch wear.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Ignition coil packs can fail, leading to misfires.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Subaru History:
Subaru Corporation, formerly Fuji Heavy Industries, has a long history in aviation and automotive manufacturing, known for its pioneering use of all-wheel drive and boxer engines.
Model Evolution
Impreza Generations:
The 2002 model year marks the introduction of the second generation (GD/GG) Impreza, replacing the first-generation (GC/GF).
Wrx Debut:
The WRX variant, a rally homologation special, gained significant popularity in the early 2000s, bringing Subaru's rally success to the road.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Car And Driver 10Best:
While the 2002 model year might not have specific '10Best' listings, subsequent Subaru Impreza WRX models frequently appeared on this prestigious list for their performance value.
Ratings
Insurance Institute Highway Safety Top Safety Pick:
Early second-generation models received good ratings in frontal offset crash tests, but specific 'Top Safety Pick' designations may not apply to this exact year.