Subaru Impreza WRX Generations Explained: Classic, Bugeye, Blobeye and Hawkeye

What are the Subaru Impreza WRX generations? The Impreza WRX story runs from the original "Classic" cars of the 1990s through the Bugeye, Blobeye and Hawkeye facelifts of the early 2000s to the hatchback and sedan cars of the late 2000s and 2010s, and each era has a different look, engine and personality. The nicknames come from the shape of the headlights, and they're the fastest way to tell the cars apart. This guide to the Subaru Impreza WRX generations explains what changed and which one suits you.

If you're already torn between two specific cars, our Blobeye vs Hawkeye STI guide and WRX vs STI explainer are the next stops.

Quick Verdict: Which Impreza WRX Is Best?

• First generation (1992 to 2000), Classic / GC8: Rally heritage, lightweight, collectable.
• Second generation (2000 to 2002), Bugeye: Quirky looks, strong value.
• Second generation (2003 to 2005), Blobeye: Cleaner styling, refined chassis.
• Second generation (2005 to 2007), Hawkeye: Modern look, improved interior.
• Third generation (2008 to 2014), Hatchback and sedan: Practical, modern, strong STI.

What Is the Classic Impreza (GC8)?

The Classic Impreza is the original rally-bred WRX, with a lightweight body, a turbocharged boxer engine and a huge reputation. It's the car that made Subaru famous in the 1990s, and it's the one that rewards enthusiasts who love raw, simple driving. The WRX STI, the Type R and the limited-run specials like the 22B are among the most sought-after Subarus ever built. Clean examples have become very expensive.

What Is the Bugeye?

The Bugeye is the early second-generation Impreza, named for its round, wide-set headlights, and it's the quirky favorite of many fans. It brought a stiffer chassis and a more modern feel while keeping the turbo boxer character. The look divides opinion, but prices are usually lower than the other generations, so it's often the best-value entry. Our Bugeye WRX build feature shows what's possible.

What Is the Blobeye?

The Blobeye is the mid-life facelift of the second generation, with a cleaner, more conventional front end and a number of chassis and engine refinements. Many people consider it the sweet spot, thanks to better looks, strong performance and a huge aftermarket. Our feature on Andrew's 2003 Blobeye STI shows one in action.

What Is the Hawkeye?

The Hawkeye is the last of the second-generation cars, with sharper, angular headlights and a more modern interior. It's a popular choice for modifying and often has the benefit of later updates and improvements. Prices have risen as the nostalgia grows. For a closer look at how it compares with its predecessor, read our Blobeye vs Hawkeye guide, and see Simon's Subaru Impreza Hawkeye.

What About the Hatchback and Later Cars?

From 2008, the Impreza became a more modern, practical car in hatchback and sedan form, with a different engine setup and a more refined feel. The later WRX and STI models are quicker and more comfortable, but some enthusiasts feel they lost the raw character of the older cars. They're also often cheaper to buy than the iconic early models, and they have strong modern aftermarket support. Read our WRX vs STI modification comparison to see how they differ.

What Engine Does Each Impreza Have?

Early WRX models use the 2.0 liter turbocharged EJ-series boxer, and later cars use larger 2.5 liter versions in many markets. JDM and UK cars differ in specification, so always check the exact engine and model year when you're shopping. The turbo boxer is tough but has known weak points, particularly head gaskets and neglected maintenance, so a full service history is critical.

Which Impreza WRX Should You Buy?

For value, buy a well-kept Bugeye or Blobeye; for style and modifying, go for a Blobeye or Hawkeye; and for a collector, choose a Classic. The most important rule is condition. A cheap, abused Impreza will cost far more than a good one, and many have been poorly modified. Check for head gasket issues, rust and signs of hard use, and read our JDM import guide if you're thinking of importing.

If you love this era, the Stance Auto 90s JDM Classics magazine is our hottest-selling issue and it's full of exactly the cars that defined the decade. You can buy it from our Amazon magazine store. To learn more about Subaru's rally partner, see Prodrive, and for current Subaru UK information, visit Subaru UK.

Want the Full Story Behind the Impreza?

If you want the complete history of the Impreza and WRX, from the Classic to the hatchback cars, we've written a whole book on it. It has a deep dive on every generation with the history, the reasoning behind each model, a buying guide and what to do and avoid when modifying, plus real owner builds. You can find it on Amazon here.

See It Done: Real Impreza Builds

• A 1999 Subaru Impreza turbo wagon
• A 2002 Subaru Impreza WRX tribute build
• Andrew's 2003 Blobeye STI

So, Which Subaru Impreza WRX Generation Is Best?

The best of the Subaru Impreza WRX generations is the one that suits your budget and your taste, but the Blobeye is the safest all-round choice. The Classic is for collectors, the Bugeye is the bargain, the Hawkeye is the stylish one and the later cars are the practical ones. Buy the best-maintained example you can afford and always check the service history.

Related Reads

• Blobeye vs Hawkeye STI: which should you buy?
• WRX vs STI: what made the STI a legend
• Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution generations explained
• Subaru WRX vs STI modification comparison
• Best JDM cars under £10k

Want more real builds and honest buying advice? Explore Stance Auto Magazine.