What I liked about the Subaru Impreza WRX:
- A hoot and a half to drive
- Reasonably priced
- Very practical, especially in hatchback form
What I didn't like:
- Handling isn't as sharp as it could be
- Hate those hard-plastic door panels
- Doesn't offer an automatic
Who should buy the Subaru Impreza WRX:
Anyone and everyone... so long as they can drive a stick-shift
Who should not buy the Subaru Impreza WRX:
Those who need an automatic transmission and/or are looking for the best possible handling right off the showroom floor
Details and specs:
- Body style: 4-door sedan, 5-door hatchback
- Seating capacity: 5
- Trim levels: (one)
- Price range (including destination and options): $25,660 - $30,660
- Test car price: $30,660
- Base engine: 2.5 liter turbocharged horizontally-opposed four-cylinder, 265 hp @ 6,000 RPM, 244 lb-ft @ 4,000 RPM
- Optional engine: None
- Premium fuel required? Yes
- Transmission: 5-speed manual
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 18 MPG city/25 MPG highway
- Where built: Japan
- Standard safety equipment: Front airbags, front-seat-mounted side airbags, two-row side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, electronic stability control
- Optional safety equipment: None
- Major standard features: Power windows, mirrors and locks, automatic climate control, keyless entry, CD player
- Major options: Heated seats, sunroof, upgraded stereo, navigation, satellite radio
- Warranty: 3 years/36,000 miles bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles powertrain, 5 years/unlimited mileage outer-body rust-through
- Roadside assistance/free maintenance: 3 years/36,000 miles roadside assistance
Best rivals:
The vehicle for this test drive was provided by Subaru.
