1999 Subaru Impreza Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
1999 Subaru Impreza Speaker Sizes and Audio System Guide
This page covers the factory speaker layout and audio notes for the 1999 Subaru Impreza, including where the speakers are located and what to expect when planning an upgrade. Equipment can vary by trim, body style, or audio package, and factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Use the trim table below to compare configurations and confirm the setup on your specific vehicle.
Data verified by Nick Marchenko, PhD
Speaker Size Chart – 1999 Subaru Impreza
Use this table as the main reference. Fitment depends on trim, factory audio package, mounting depth, and adapter availability.
Generic speaker location diagram. The table above shows the specific factory sizes for this vehicle. Exact location details may vary by body style and trim.
Recommended Speakers for the 1999 Subaru Impreza
Selected aftermarket speakers that match the factory sizes for this vehicle. Always verify mounting depth, connector type, and audio package before ordering.
6.5" Speakers
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Speaker Count by Trim – 1999 Subaru Impreza
Speaker count and audio equipment vary by trim and factory audio package. This table lists known configurations from our database.
| Trim | Speakers | Amplifier | Radio | Navigation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.5RS 2dr 4WD Coupe | 4 | opt | – | – |
| L 2dr 4WD Coupe | 4 | opt | – | – |
| L 4dr All-wheel Drive Sedan | 4 | opt | – | – |
| L 4dr All-wheel Drive Station Wagon | 4 | opt | – | – |
| Outback Sport 4dr All-wheel Drive Station Wagon | 4 | opt | – | – |
Data sourced from manufacturer specifications. Verify with the window sticker or dealer before ordering audio components.
Vehicle and Audio System Specifications
This block helps identify the vehicle and its audio system configuration for fitment decisions.
Body Style Audio Differences
For the 1999 Subaru Impreza, body style can affect how factory audio equipment is arranged, but the available speaker data is the same across the model. Front and rear door locations use 6.5-inch full-range speakers, and selected trims may include an optional amplifier. Equipment can vary by trim and audio package.
What Speakers Fit the 1999 Subaru Impreza?
Aftermarket fitment should start with the factory speaker locations listed for this 1999 Subaru Impreza, but diameter alone is not enough. The front and rear door openings are listed as 6.5-inch full-range locations, so matching size is the first step, then you should verify mounting depth, bracket style, and connector type before buying. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, since amplifier equipment can vary. Selected audio systems may also include a subwoofer if equipped.
Usually Safe Upgrades
- If your vehicle uses the front door location, a 6.5-inch full-range speaker is the starting point for replacement.
- If your vehicle uses the rear door location, a 6.5-inch full-range speaker is the starting point for replacement.
- If your audio system is factory-amplified on a given trim, choose speakers that work well with amplified output and confirm the wiring before installation.
- If your setup includes a subwoofer if equipped, treat it as a separate upgrade from the door speakers.
Check Before Buying
- Confirm the exact speaker location before ordering, since the listed fitment is based on front and rear door positions.
- Measure mounting depth and check for any adapter or bracket needs, because size alone does not guarantee a proper fit.
- Verify connector style and polarity so the new speakers can be wired correctly.
- Check whether your trim has factory amplifier equipment, since trim and audio package can change the installation approach.
Installation Notes
The 1999 Subaru Impreza in the first-generation GC platform uses 6.5-inch full-range speakers in the front and rear doors, with a 4-speaker layout listed across the trims provided. Panel removal is usually the first step, and care should be taken when releasing clips and lifting the door panels so the trim is not damaged. Before installing new speakers, verify speaker depth and magnet clearance behind the factory openings, since door space can vary by setup. Mounting adapters may be needed to match the factory openings, and a wiring harness adapter can help keep the vehicle wiring intact. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, since amplifier availability is not universal. If your vehicle has the factory subwoofer, plan the upgrade around the existing bass system and confirm signal routing before final assembly. After installation, test each speaker at low volume to confirm polarity, balance, and secure fit before reinstalling all panels.
Moderate difficulty, with extra care needed for panel removal, wiring verification, and speaker depth checks.
Common Mistakes When Replacing Speakers
When shopping for a 1999 Subaru Impreza audio upgrade, the biggest problems usually come from assuming every car in the lineup is wired the same.
- Buying based only on the body-style label instead of checking actual speaker locations on the vehicle.
- Ignoring trim and audio package differences, since factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package and speaker count can vary by configuration.
- Ordering 6.5-inch speakers without confirming mounting depth, basket clearance, and connector style before removal.
- Assuming tweeters are part of the factory setup; this model does not list tweeters, so any added tweeter work should only be planned if equipped or added later.
- Skipping a test fit and sound check before reassembly, which can hide wiring issues, polarity problems, or clearance conflicts until the door panels are back on.
Generation & Model Family
The 1999 Subaru Impreza belongs to the First generation (GC) (1999–2001) family. Nearby model years often share similar speaker locations and audio layouts, but exact fitment can vary by trim and audio package – verify before ordering.
Recommended Upgrade Path
The 1999 Subaru Impreza uses a simple 4-speaker layout, so the biggest gains usually come from upgrading the front stage first and then building from there. Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package, since equipment can vary. This guide focuses on practical upgrade paths that fit different goals without changing the car’s overall character.
| Goal | Best Upgrade Path | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Better clarity | Start with the front door speakers and, if equipped in your chosen setup, add upgraded tweeters or front-stage components for cleaner highs and stronger midrange detail. | The front speakers do the most work for vocals and instruments, so improving that area gives the clearest jump in sound quality. A stronger front stage helps reduce harshness and makes the system sound more refined. |
| More bass | Add an aftermarket subwoofer to complement the factory speakers and relieve the door speakers from trying to handle deep bass on their own. | This model’s listed speaker layout is focused on full-range door speakers, so a dedicated subwoofer is the most effective way to add low-end impact. It also helps the rest of the system play cleaner at normal listening levels. |
| Louder sound | Properly matched speakers and amplifier integration can improve volume and reduce distortion. Verify factory amp or premium-system integration before adding aftermarket amplifiers. | Higher output only sounds good when the speakers and amp are matched correctly. Checking the existing audio setup first helps avoid integration problems and keeps the upgrade balanced. |
| Budget improvement | Replace the front door speakers first with same-size replacement speakers and the correct mounting brackets. | The front doors are the most-used speakers in the cabin, so upgrading them first gives the best value for the money. This approach improves everyday sound without requiring a full system overhaul. |
| Factory look | Use same-size replacement speakers with the correct mounting brackets and harness adapters for a clean install that preserves the factory wiring and appearance. | This keeps the interior looking original while still improving sound quality. It also helps maintain a tidy installation and avoids unnecessary changes to the car’s interior. |
Mounting Adapters and Wiring
The same nominal diameter does not guarantee a direct mount. Before ordering, confirm:
- Speaker depth: Aftermarket speakers often have larger magnets – measure available depth at each location.
- Mounting brackets: Door locations typically need a bracket or spacer to clear the window regulator and achieve correct mounting depth.
- Wiring harness adapters: Use a plug-and-play harness adapter to preserve factory wiring.
- Tweeter mounting cups: Replacing OEM tweeters may require surface-mount cups or brackets depending on the location.
- Factory or premium amplified systems: If the vehicle has a premium or factory-amplified audio system, confirm how the factory radio, amplifier, and speakers are connected before adding aftermarket amplifiers. Depending on the setup, a line output converter, DSP, integration harness, or professional installation may be needed.
- Connector type: Factory connectors vary by trim and model year – confirm compatibility before splicing or using an adapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size are the front door speakers in a 1999 Subaru Impreza?
The front door speakers are 6.5-inch full-range units. Speaker data for this model year is listed directly for the front doors, and the same size appears across the available audio layout.
What size are the rear door speakers in a 1999 Subaru Impreza?
The rear door speakers are 6.5-inch full-range units. This matches the front door size in the factory speaker layout for the 1999 Impreza.
Does the 1999 Subaru Impreza have a factory subwoofer?
A factory subwoofer is not listed for this model year. If your vehicle has an upgraded audio package, it is worth checking the system equipment to confirm what is installed.
Do I need mounting adapters to replace the speakers?
Mounting adapters may be needed depending on the replacement speaker design and the vehicle’s factory mounting points. Check the speaker depth, mounting pattern, and trim clearance before choosing new speakers.
Can I replace the speakers without replacing the radio?
Yes, speaker replacement can be done without replacing the radio. The factory radio can stay in place as long as the new speakers are matched correctly to the vehicle’s wiring and mounting setup.
Does the 1999 Subaru Impreza have a factory amplifier?
Factory amplifier details should be verified by trim and audio package. Some trims list an optional amplifier, so the audio system can vary from one vehicle to another.