2016 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium

Two owners

Locally driven by an older couple

Two new tires

At $12,800, this Impreza is priced in line with what comparable examples are selling for locally right now. AWD at this price point is genuinely useful and worth noting. That said, every used car has its own history, so mileage, maintenance records, and overall condition should be verified before drawing final conclusions about value.

At 28 city / 37 highway, real-world fuel economy on this Impreza typically lands around 32–34 MPG in mixed driving. At 12,000 miles per year and roughly $3.50–$4.00 per gallon in the Chicago area, expect to budget around $90–$110 per month in fuel costs.

Subaru recommends oil changes every 6,000 miles on the 2.0i, and routine service intervals cover cabin and engine air filters, brake fluid, and spark plugs on a predictable schedule. A standard oil change runs $60–$90 at a shop, and a full tune-up including plugs and filters typically falls in the $150–$300 range depending on where you go.

This Impreza generally falls into the compact car insurance category, which tends to be one of the more affordable tiers. Rates will vary based on your driving history and ZIP code, but compact hatchbacks with standard safety features like this one typically carry lower premiums than SUVs or performance vehicles.

The Impreza uses standard all-season tires, and because it has Subaru's symmetrical AWD, tires should be replaced as a full set of four to protect the drivetrain. A full set of replacement tires for this size runs roughly $400–$700 installed, and with normal Chicago-area driving, you can expect to replace them every 40,000–60,000 miles depending on the brand and your driving habits.

Subaru's symmetrical AWD comes standard on the 2.0i trim, which matters when Barrington and Hoffman Estates roads turn slick in January and February. The hatchback body gives you real cargo flexibility without the bulk of an SUV, useful if your commute runs along Rt. 14 or I-90 and parking is tight. The 2016 model year puts this one past the initial depreciation curve, so you're getting AWD capability at a price that reflects age and miles rather than new-car markup.

The 2016 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium hatchback competes most directly with the 2016 Honda Fit and the 2016 Toyota Corolla iM.

Against the Honda Fit, the Impreza wins on all-wheel drive, which the Fit does not offer. The Fit wins on cargo flexibility, thanks to its Magic Seat system, and typically returns better fuel economy.

Against the Corolla iM, the Impreza again has the AWD advantage, which the Corolla iM lacks entirely. The Corolla iM tends to have lower long-term ownership costs and a slightly more polished interior feel for the segment.

The Impreza hatchback gives up some efficiency and interior refinement compared to both rivals, but the AWD system is a real, practical advantage that neither competitor can match.

This car makes the most sense for someone in a snowy or wet climate who wants a compact hatchback and is not willing to compromise on all-season traction.

Is the 2016 Subaru Impreza a reliable car?

The 2016 Impreza has a solid reputation for long-term dependability. Subaru's AWD system is well-proven, and this generation's 2.0L four-cylinder is a straightforward engine. At 73,124 miles, this car is well into its usable life but not near the end of it, assuming consistent maintenance.

What should I know about the CVT in this car?

CVTs perform differently than traditional automatics. On a test drive, you want smooth, gradual acceleration with no shuddering, jerking, or hesitation. Ask for any available service records to confirm the transmission fluid has been maintained. If the drive feels off in any way, that's worth flagging before you commit.

How does the 2016 Impreza compare to the Honda Fit and Toyota Corolla?

The Fit offers more cargo flexibility and a nimble feel, but it's front-wheel drive only. The Corolla is a traditional sedan or hatchback competitor with a strong reliability record, also front-wheel drive. The Impreza's main advantage is standard AWD, which the Fit and Corolla don't offer. If you drive in snow or rain regularly, that's a real difference.

What should I check when I go look at this car in person?

Start with the interior. Check all seat surfaces, door panels, and the headliner for wear or damage. Test every button, screen, and climate control function. Look at tire tread depth on all four corners and check that wear is even across each tire. On the test drive, listen for any unusual noises, feel for smooth braking, and make sure the car tracks straight without pulling.

Who is this car a good fit for?

This car suits someone who needs AWD without moving into SUV territory. The hatchback body style gives you more cargo room than a sedan. At $12,800 with 73,000 miles, it's priced for someone who wants a practical, capable car without a large budget. It also gets 37 mpg on the highway, so commuters will benefit there.

Why should I work with a car buying advisor instead of going to a dealership alone?

A dealership's sales team is experienced at guiding buyers toward a decision. That's their job. An advisor's job is the opposite, making sure you slow down, ask the right questions, and don't pay more than you should. V works inside the dealership environment but answers only to you. He doesn't earn a commission on what you buy.

What service history should I ask about for this car?

Ask the seller for any maintenance records they have. You want to see evidence of regular oil changes and any major services around common mileage intervals. Even if records are incomplete, knowing what the seller does and doesn't have tells you something. A vehicle history report from Carfax or AutoCheck can fill in some gaps, but it won't capture everything.

Is $12,800 a fair price for this car?

That depends on current market conditions, the car's condition, and your local area. Check recent sold listings for similar 2016 Imprezas with comparable mileage on sites like CarGurus or Edmunds. V can help you evaluate whether the asking price is reasonable and whether there's room to negotiate before you make an offer.