2016 Subaru Impreza Tires

The 2016 Subaru Impreza uses three primary tire sizes: 195/65R15, 205/55R16, and 205/50R17. All three are radial sizes, and the correct one depends on the exact sub-model and wheel package. Base models use 195/65R15, several upper trims use 205/50R17, and Premium models may use either 205/55R16 or 205/50R17.

The easiest way to narrow it down is to confirm the trim and then check the wheel diameter already on the car. A 15-inch, 16-inch, or 17-inch wheel calls for a different tire size, so the replacement decision starts there rather than with brand or sidewall style. That matters even more if the car has been fitted with different wheels at some point.

A 2016 Subaru Impreza can use 15-inch, 16-inch, or 17-inch rims depending on the sub-model. The 195/65R15 fitment is built around a 15-inch wheel, 205/55R16 uses a 16-inch wheel, and 205/50R17 uses a 17-inch wheel. The rim diameter must match the tire size exactly.

Checking the wheel first prevents one of the most common ordering mistakes on this model. The Premium trim is especially important to verify because it can use either a 16-inch or 17-inch fitment. Looking at the tire sidewall or measuring the wheel diameter gives a quick confirmation before comparing tire series, brands, and sidewall appearance.

The 2016 Subaru Impreza has more than one tire size because different sub-models use different wheel packages. Base models use 195/65R15, Limited, Sport Limited, and Sport Premium use 205/50R17, and Premium models may use either 205/55R16 or 205/50R17. The fitment changes with the trim rather than one single size covering the entire model line.

That means tire selection starts with vehicle configuration, not with a general search for Impreza tires. Once the correct trim and wheel diameter are confirmed, the remaining choice becomes much simpler. At that point, the buyer can focus on the available radial tire options in the proper size instead of sorting through sizes that belong to other versions of the same car.

Start by confirming that the 2016 Subaru Impreza actually uses the 205/50R17 fitment, since that size applies to Limited, Sport Limited, Sport Premium, and some Premium cars. Within that size, the available choices vary by brand, tire series, sidewall style, rim-width specification, weight, and in some cases load figures tied to stated inflation pressures.

Once the size is confirmed, compare the tire's character against how the car is used and how it should look. Blackwall choices keep the appearance more contemporary, while a wide whitewall changes the visual presentation substantially. It also helps to confirm wheel width before final selection, especially if the car no longer has its original wheel setup.

Available sidewall styles for applicable 2016 Subaru Impreza tires include blackwall and wide whitewall. The 205/50R17 and 205/55R16 sizes both have blackwall options, and each of those sizes also has an American Classic Radial choice with a wide whitewall presentation. That gives the car either a standard modern look or a more distinctive appearance.

Sidewall style does not change the need to stay within the correct tire size and wheel diameter. It is mainly an appearance decision after fitment is settled. On a car like the Impreza, a whitewall is a visual departure from the usual look, so buyers often choose it deliberately for style rather than as a routine replacement choice.

Applicable 2016 Subaru Impreza tire options include BFGoodrich, American Classic, Michelin, and Vredestein, depending on the size. BFGoodrich appears across both 205/50R17 and 205/55R16, American Classic offers wide whitewall radials in both sizes, Michelin appears in 205/55R16, and Vredestein appears in 205/50R17.

Brand choice should come after confirming the exact tire size on the car. Once that is done, compare each brand's available series, sidewall style, rim-width range, and other relevant specifications rather than assuming every brand offers the same type of tire. That approach keeps the decision grounded in actual fitment and the look or use the car is meant to have.

A period-style approach for a 2016 Subaru Impreza still begins with the correct modern radial size for the exact trim and wheel diameter. From there, the available look changes by product line and sidewall treatment, with blackwall options offering the more familiar contemporary presentation and wide whitewall versions creating a more customized visual statement.

Most owners seeking a stock-like overall impression will stay closer to the standard blackwall appearance, while a whitewall choice is more about personal style than restoring a typical 2016 compact-car look. Keeping the right size on the right wheel matters more than chasing a visual theme, especially on a car that may have seen wheel changes over time.

Correct tire fitment matters because the 2016 Subaru Impreza does not use one universal size across every trim. A restoration-minded replacement should match the car's proper wheel diameter and corresponding tire size, whether that is 195/65R15, 205/55R16, or 205/50R17. Getting the fitment right helps preserve the car's intended stance and overall presentation.

Appearance details such as blackwall versus wide whitewall can be chosen afterward, but the foundation is still the correct size and wheel pairing. On a newer collector-era vehicle, it is also worth confirming whether the car remains in its original trim and wheel configuration. That check prevents a restoration project from being guided by parts added later.

Yes. On a 2016 Subaru Impreza, changes such as aftermarket wheels, altered wheel width, suspension lowering, or other chassis modifications can affect which tire size works properly. Because this model already uses multiple factory wheel diameters across its trims, any deviation from the original setup makes it even more important to verify the actual wheel and tire combination on the car.

Clearance at the fender, strut, and steering range should be checked before changing size or profile. Even when the tire size printed on the car seems familiar, a modified wheel can change the fitment picture. A quick inspection of wheel diameter and width usually answers the first questions before moving on to tread style or brand selection.

Before driving a 2016 Subaru Impreza on new tires, confirm that the size matches the car's trim and wheel diameter, then inspect the wheels themselves for damage or irregular wear signs. Tire pressure should be set properly, and it is smart to look over suspension and steering components for anything that could affect alignment or create uneven contact on the road.

A quick road-use check should also include sidewall clearance, tread-to-body clearance, and a review of any prior wheel or suspension changes. On a car that has been sitting, look for signs of air loss, aged valve stems, or old tires that may have masked other issues. Catching those items early helps the new tires do their job correctly.

Tires on a 2016 Subaru Impreza should be inspected regularly, not only when tread appears worn. A visual check for uneven wear, cracking, cuts, bulges, and pressure loss is worthwhile as part of normal ownership, especially before a longer drive or after the car has sat for an extended period. Collector-minded or lightly used cars deserve the same attention.

Routine inspections matter because this Impreza may wear one of several tire sizes, and replacement timing is easier to manage when condition is tracked consistently. Looking at the tires while also checking wheel condition and inflation helps spot problems before they become fitment or handling concerns. Cars driven infrequently can age their tires out before they wear them out.