Lowering Springs Guide
Best Lowering Springs for the
2004 – 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX & STi: Every Kit Compared
A complete comparison of lowering spring kits for the 2004–2008 Subaru Impreza WRX and WRX STi — covering the GD sedan, GG wagon, and GRB hatchback (2008–2010 STi). Drop heights, pricing, fitment notes, and real-world owner feedback.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Kit | Front Drop | Rear Drop | Fits | Type | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H&R OE Sport | -0.8" | -0.5" | 04–07 WRX, STi GD/GG | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (08–10 STi) | -1.0" | -1.0" | 08–10 STi GRB | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (08–14 WRX) | -1.4" | -1.3" | 08–14 WRX Sedan/Hatch | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| H&R Sport (04–07) | -1.4" | -1.3" | 04–07 WRX, STi GD/GG | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
| Eibach Coil Spring Kit | -1.2" | -1.0" | 04–07 Impreza WRX | Progressive |
|
SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
GD vs GG vs GRB
The GD chassis is the sedan (2002–2007 WRX, 2004–2007 STi). The GG is the wagon. The GRB is the 2008–2010 STi hatchback. Different spring kits fit different chassis years: 04–07 kits fit GD/GG; 08–10 STi uses GRB-specific springs; 08–14 WRX covers sedan and hatch.
Shocks & Struts
These vehicles are 15–20 years old. Factory shocks are likely worn. H&R recommends performance aftermarket shocks for the 08–10 STi (54464) and 08–14 WRX (54462). Pairing springs with Bilstein B6 or B8 will improve ride quality.
Alignment & Camber
Drops under 1.0" typically stay within factory alignment specs. The H&R Sport (04–07) at -1.4" front may require camber correction for optimal tire wear. Always budget for a professional alignment after installation.
2.5 RS / TS / WRX / STi
The H&R OE Sport and Sport (04–07) fit 2.5 RS, Impreza, TS, WRX, and STi on the GD/GG platform. The Eibach 7714.14 fits WRX Sedan and Wagon. Verify your exact model before purchasing.
H&R OE Sport Lowering Springs
The H&R OE Sport (54457-55) delivers a conservative 0.8" front and 0.5" rear drop on the 2004–2007 Subaru Impreza WRX, 2.5 RS, TS, and STi (GD/GG). It's the most affordable option in this guide and maintains near-stock ride quality. Ideal for daily drivers who want a subtle stance improvement without compromising comfort.
H&R OE Sport springs are designed to work with factory shocks. The progressive rate provides smooth ride quality while reducing body roll. For 15–20 year old vehicles, consider pairing with new shocks for best results.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2004–07 Subaru 2.5 RS / Impreza / TS / WRX GD, GG | -0.8" | -0.5" |
| 2004 Subaru STi GD | -0.8" | -0.5" |
| 2005–07 Subaru STi GD | -0.8" | -0.5" |
Pros
- Lowest price in this guide
- Conservative drop — no camber correction needed
- Fits WRX, STi, 2.5 RS, TS
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Subtle drop — may not satisfy stance-focused owners
- Rear drop very conservative (-0.5")
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (04–07)
The H&R Sport (54457) delivers a 1.4" front and 1.3" rear drop on the 2004–2007 Subaru Impreza WRX, 2.5 RS, TS, and STi (GD/GG). It's the most popular choice for GD platform owners who want a noticeable stance improvement. The progressive spring rate balances daily comfort with improved handling and reduced body roll.
H&R springs are cold-wound from 54SiCr6 steel in Germany. Forum feedback from GD owners is consistently positive. At -1.4" front, camber correction may be recommended for optimal tire wear.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2004–07 Subaru 2.5 RS / Impreza / TS / WRX GD, GG | -1.4" | -1.3" |
| 2004 Subaru STi GD | -1.4" | -1.3" |
| 2005–07 Subaru STi GD | -1.4" | -1.3" |
Pros
- Best balance of drop and ride quality
- Fits WRX, STi, 2.5 RS, TS
- Made in Germany
- Strong community validation on GD platform
Cons
- Camber correction may be needed at -1.4"
- Higher price than OE Sport
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (08–10 STi)
The H&R Sport (54464) is designed specifically for the 2008–2010 Subaru WRX STi (GRB hatchback). It delivers a 1.0" front and 1.0" rear drop. H&R recommends performance aftermarket shocks or struts for this application — the factory dampers on the GRB can be overwhelmed by the lower ride height.
This is the most affordable option for GRB STi owners. The equal front/rear drop keeps the car level. Pair with Bilstein B8 or similar for best ride quality.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2008–10 Subaru WRX STi GRB (Hatchback) | -1.0" | -1.0" |
Pros
- Only GRB STi-specific option in this guide
- Equal front/rear drop
- Lowest price for STi
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Aftermarket shocks recommended
- Moderate drop compared to H&R Sport (04–07)
H&R Sport Lowering Springs (08–14 WRX)
The H&R Sport (54462) fits the 2008–2014 Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan and Hatchback. It delivers a 1.4" front and 1.3" rear drop. H&R notes that lowering varies by engine size, battery package, and model options. Performance aftermarket shocks are recommended.
This kit covers the widest year range in this guide (2008–2014), overlapping with the GD-era STi in 2008. For 2008 WRX (non-STi) sedan or hatch, this is the primary option.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2008–14 Subaru WRX Sedan, Hatchback | -1.4" | -1.3" |
Pros
- Best value for 08–14 WRX
- Aggressive drop (-1.4" F)
- Fits sedan and hatchback
- Made in Germany
Cons
- Aftermarket shocks recommended
- Does not fit 08–10 STi (use 54464)
Eibach Coil Spring Lowering Kit
The Eibach Coil Spring Lowering Kit (7714.14) delivers a 1.2" front and 1.0" rear drop on the 2004–2007 Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan and Wagon. It sits between the H&R OE Sport and H&R Sport in drop aggressiveness. Eibach's progressive spring design is optimized for handling and ride quality.
Eibach springs are known for durability and consistent performance. The 1.2" front drop typically stays within factory alignment tolerance. Fits WRX Sedan and Wagon; verify fitment for 2.5 RS, TS, and STi.
Drop by Application
| Application | Front Drop | Rear Drop |
|---|---|---|
| 2004–2005 Subaru Impreza RS | N/A | N/A |
| 2004–2007 Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan | -1.2" | -1.0" |
| 2004–2007 Subaru Impreza WRX Wagon | -1.2" | -1.0" |
Pros
- Balanced drop for handling
- Fits WRX Sedan and Wagon
- Made in Germany
- Strong brand reputation
Cons
- Higher price than H&R options
- Verify fitment for STi (may not be listed)
Fitment Reference
Which Kits Fit Your Trim?
| Trim | H&R OE | H&R Sport (04–07) | H&R Sport (08–10 STi) | H&R Sport (08–14 WRX) | Eibach Kit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04–07 WRX, 2.5 RS, TS, STi (GD/GG) | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | * |
| 08–10 WRX STi (GRB) | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| 08–14 WRX Sedan/Hatch (non-STi) | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
✓ = Confirmed fitment • ✗ = Does not fit • * = Verify WRX Sedan/Wagon only
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need new shocks when installing lowering springs?
Not necessarily. All kits work with factory shocks. However, these vehicles are 15–20 years old. H&R recommends performance aftermarket shocks for the 08–10 STi and 08–14 WRX. If your factory shocks are worn, pairing springs with Bilstein B6 or B8 will improve ride quality.
Will lowering springs void my factory warranty?
Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, a dealer cannot void your entire warranty for installing aftermarket parts. However, if a warranty claim is directly related to the modification, the dealer can deny that specific claim. Most 2004–2008 Subarus are long out of factory warranty.
Do lowering springs affect ride quality?
Yes. Conservative drops (H&R OE Sport at -0.8" F) maintain near-stock comfort. Aggressive drops (H&R Sport at -1.4" F) are noticeably firmer. Pairing springs with worn dampers will make any kit feel harsh.
I have an 08–10 STi. Which kit fits?
The H&R Sport (54464) is the only kit in this guide designed for the 2008–2010 WRX STi (GRB hatchback). The 08–14 WRX kit (54462) does not fit the STi.
Should I get lowering springs or coilovers?
Lowering springs offer a set drop at lower cost ($205–$341 vs. $1,000+ for coilovers). If you want adjustable ride height and damping, coilovers are the better choice. Check our Suspension Buyers Guide for a full comparison.
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