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The Subaru Impreza -- specifically the entry-level 2.5i model tested here -- is my favorite choice for new and nervous drivers. As the only compact car with standard all-wheel-drive, the Impreza keeps a better grip on the pavement than front- or rear-wheel-drive cars, so the driver is less likely to lose control on wet roads or in a sudden panic swerve. For 2009, Subaru has made the safety package even better -- but does being the safest make it the best? Read on.
Larger photos: Front - rear - interior - all photos
- Excellent accident-avoidance technology
- Simple, uncluttered control layout
- Handy as a Swiss Army knife
- Costs the same as comparably-equipped front-wheel-drive cars
- Bland styling
- Stick-shift is noisy and sluggish
- Fuel economy unbecoming of a small car
- 2.5i is the work-a-day version of the Impreza
- Price range: $18,190 - $23,690 (plus dealer-installed options)
- Model tested/price: Impreza 2.5i Premium hatchback, $20,890
- EPA fuel economy estimates: 20 MPG city/27 MPG highway (manual), 20/26 (automatic)
- Observed fuel economy: 26.9 MPG
- Best rivals: Toyota Corolla, Mazda3, Honda Civic
For 2009, Subaru has improved the Impreza's safety résumé by adding standard electronic stability control (ESC -- Subaru calls it VDC, for Vehicle Dynamics Control). Translation: Even if you do manage to break the Impreza's grip on the pavement -- which isn't easy; I tried repeatedly -- ESC can help bring the car back under control. Subaru has also added rear disc brakes with electronic braking assist for shorter panic-stop distances, especially in wet weather. From an accident-avoidance standpoint, it doesn't get any better than this. And if that isn't enough, manual Imprezas now get a hill-holder, which keeps them from rolling backwards on steep hills -- a boon for novice stick-shifters.
But active safety isn't the only reason to buy one. The Impreza 2.5i sedan gets power windows, mirrors, and locks, air conditioning, cruise control and a CD player for $18,190. That's just $25 more than a Honda Civic LX and $60 less than a Mazda 3i Sport; both lack all-wheel-drive and the Civic doesn't have ESC. The Impreza is also available as a handy mini-wagon for $500 more.
Flaws: Bland styling, mediocre fuel economy, and the manual-transmission version feels sluggish. (The automatic does a better job, but uses even more fuel.) Subaru also offers a 2.5GT version, which is powerful but pricey, and the hot-rod WRX (one of my favorite cars) and STI. Nota bene, parents: The WRX and STI aren't suitable for young, inexperienced drivers.
Bottom line: If I was going to buy my kid a new car, the Impreza 2.5i is the one I'd get -- and it isn't bad for adults, either. All-wheel-drive, electronic stability control, and excellent crash-test scores make the Impreza 2.5i one of the safest compacts you can buy, while the rest of the package makes it a great car to live with every day. -- Aaron Gold
The vehicle for this test drive was provided by Subaru.
