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Like the Sentra, the
Impreza is expensive for an economy car and doesn’t feel upscale. However,
it has the group’s only all-wheel-drive system standard (one other, the
Suzuki Aerio, has it optional), which accounts for the price increase.
Without considering the system, the Impreza is an mediocre car, with very
good ride and handling and excellent crash-test scores but a cramped
interior, poor gas mileage, and inflated price, but with it, it’s the best
all-weather choice in this group.
The Impreza has a rather
firm, comfortable, and well-controlled ride, though larger bumps are not
always well-smothered. Handling is also very controlled, with little body
roll and quick, well-weighted steering that combine to make the Impreza one
of the more fun-to-drive vehicles in this group. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder
provides adequate power, but is too noisy even at cruise. Wind noise is also
excessive. The Impreza has the worst gas mileage of the group, a downside to
the standard AWD.
Inside, the Impreza’s
front seats are well-shaped and very supportive, but a bit too hard. The
rear is very small, so while the cushion is well-shaped, the lack of legroom
prevents adult comfort.  There are too many low-quality trim pieces
throughout the interior despite a recent upgrade, but they fit together
well. The gauges are too small, but well-marked. The instruments are well
laid-out, but many are too small. Drivers sit comfortably if a bit low, but
rearward visibility could be better. The trunk is the smallest in the group.
The Impreza reviewed
here came in at $18,131, equipped with its standard all-wheel-drive system
and active head restraints, but missing curtain-style side-impact airbags,
which are not offered.
Overall, the Impreza
is fun to drive and reasonably comfortable for two occupants, and comes with
the benefits of all-wheel-drive for no extra charge. However, the downsides
to all-wheel-drive also come standard: decreased fuel efficiency and
acceleration and a higher price. Despite its cramped rear seating, the
Impreza is a very good choice for consumers who need more traction than most
economy cars can provide. But if you don’t need all-wheel-drive, buy
something else.
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