Subaru Impreza IV (GJ) (2011 – 2016)

Reliability score : 7.4/10

The fourth-generation Subaru Impreza (GJ chassis for the sedan, GP for the 5-door hatchback) marks a major technical turning point for the brand. It abandons the historic EJ engine family (belt-driven) in favor of the new FB generation (timing chain), designed to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. It also introduces the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission (CVT), replacing the antiquated 4-speed automatic gearbox. Still equipped with symmetrical all-wheel drive (Symmetrical AWD) as standard in almost all markets, it positions itself as a safe, spacious compact car that is formidable in precarious grip conditions. Although its design is considered conservative and its soundproofing could be improved, it shines with its overall robustness, provided attention is paid to

Common issues

Consommation excessive d'huile moteur (moteurs FB20) High
🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km
💶 3 000 – 6 000 € (remplacement bloc court ou segments)
Vérifier régulièrement le niveau d'huile, anticiper une consommation élevée.
Problèmes de transmission CVT (Lineartronic) High
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 3 500 – 6 500 € (remplacement ou reconditionnement)
Suivre scrupuleusement l'entretien de la boîte CVT, vidanges régulières.
Usure prématurée des roulements de roue Medium
🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km
💶 250 – 500 € par roue
Écouter les bruits de roulement, remplacer rapidement pour éviter d'autres dommages.
Défaillance du compresseur de climatisation ou fuites Medium
🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km
💶 600 – 1 200 €
Tester la climatisation avant l'achat, vérifier l'efficacité du froid.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change £70 – 130
Clutch £750 – 1 400
Complete brakes £220 – 480
Estimated annual budget £550 – 1 100

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.