Snapshot: Years of development with minimal cosmetic changes have resulted in one of the better compact cars. Can be had as a sedan or station wagon. Flat-4 engine is powerful yet economical. A WRX STi model produces 300 hp, but the 165 hp base is a class leader.
How Much?: Price range for a 2004 Subaru Impreza in the US is $17,895 for the SportWagon; up to $30,995 performance-loaded.
The Inside Story: Seats four comfortably, five in a pinch. Comes with air-conditioning, power windows and door locks, tilt steering, AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and four speakers. Sunroof optional.
Under the Hood: Engine: No other car maker (including Porsche) can make this claim: Every engine is a flat, boxer configuration, which means a low center of gravity. Mileage (EPA) city/highway is 21/38 mpg. ABS braking is standard.
Transmissions: 5-speed manual. 4-speed automatic is optional. But what sets this car apart is that every Impreza comes with all-wheel-drive as standard equipment. Snow folks and mud-runners aside, it helps when the going gets rough.
Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper. 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain.
Should You Buy a 2004 Subaru Impreza?: Forget the now-outdated styling, accept the advantages of all-wheel-drive plus ABS as standard equipment, enjoy 165 hp from an economical 4-cylinder engine, be happy there's a choice of sedan or wagon. Be aware that the Impreza is more than a small car yet not quite a compact. No, it's not perfect but no car is. So there's your answer. Should you buy an Impreza? Are you a clone or an individual?
