Subaru Impreza Review
2017-2023
The Subaru Impreza (GK Saloon and GT Hatchback 5th Gen) is a practical, sure-footed daily commuter in Kenya. Built on the Subaru Global Platform with standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, low center-of-gravity boxer engine, and EyeSight safety system, it offers exceptional rain traction and highway stability.
*This score is awarded by our team of expert reviewers after extensive testing of the car
What’s good
- Standard Symmetrical AWD: Superior grip during heavy downpours on Nairobi tarmac.
- Subaru Global Platform (SGP): Rigid chassis delivers sharp handling and quiet cabin refinement.
- Sub-2,000 cc KRA tax advantage: 1.6L and 2.0L engines qualify for 25% excise tax rate.
What’s not so good
- 130 mm ground clearance: Low ride height requires care over tall speed bumps.
- CVT responsiveness: Lineartronic CVT prioritizes fuel economy over aggressive acceleration.
Most popular: Impreza 1.6i-L / 2.0i-S EyeSight / Sport
45 doorsPetrolAutomatic, CVT
At a glance
- Model
- Subaru Impreza (GK / GT Series)
- Production years
- 2017–2023
- Body type
- Hatchbacks / Saloons
- Seating capacity
- 5
- Fuel types
- Petrol
- Engine sizes
- 1,599 cc (1.6L FB16) / 1,995 cc (2.0L FB20)
- Transmission
- Automatic (Lineartronic CVT)
- Drivetrain
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (SAWD)
- Ground clearance
- 130 mm
- Source market
- Japan (RHD JDM spec)
Fuel consumption
Manufacturer / import-market figures: 15.8 km/L (2.0L) / 17.2 km/L (1.6L). Tank: 50 L (about 790 km combined). Real-world use varies with load, traffic and altitude.
Running cost
- City driving
- KES 1,746 / 100 km
- Highway driving
- KES 1,227 / 100 km
- 1,000 km a month
- KES 14,365
- Full tank (50 L)
- KES 11,348
Based on petrol at KES 226.96/L, 15-10-2026 to 14-11-2026. Combined economy unless stated.
Work out a trip cost →Trims & variants
1.6i-L EyeSight / 2.0i-L / 2.0i-S EyeSight / Sport
- Setup
1.6L NA (115 hp) or 2.0L NA (154 hp / 196 Nm), Lineartronic CVT, SAWD, 15.8 km/L combined.
- Why it gets shipped
Accessible price point in Kenya (KSh 1.6M – 2.5M) combining AWD safety and Japanese build quality.
Package tiers
Package options for JDM and UK imports.
| Package | Level | Key features |
|---|---|---|
| 1.6i-L EyeSight | Core executive | EyeSight v3, 16-inch alloys, touchscreen infotainment, electronic parking brake, and climate control. |
| 2.0i-S EyeSight | Sport luxury | 18-inch dark alloys, leather interior, LED steering responsive headlights, aluminum pedals, and paddle shifters. |
About the Subaru Impreza
Kenya enforces an 8-year age restriction from manufacture month and right-hand drive compliance. In 2026, 2019 to 2023 Impreza models sit inside the direct import window.\n\nWith 1,599 cc (1.6L FB16) and 1,995 cc (2.0L FB20) engine options, all variants sit strictly under 2,000 cc to qualify for KRA's standard 25% excise duty tax rate.
Disclaimer
Tax figures are estimates based on October 2026 KRA schedules. Always verify specific chassis CRSP entries with your clearing agent prior to purchase.
