Subaru

Impreza

Guaranteed to impress, the Impreza offers the combination of the Subaru Boxer engine and Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. There are a number of engines available and, of course, a great spec level across the board.

Test Drive

Subaru Impreza 2.5 WRX STI spec D 4dr

With a fan base as long as your arm, there’s always something a little bit special about test driving the mighty Subaru Impreza.

It always attracts the attention of car-mad youngsters in my neighbourhood and I cannot fail to be impressed with how many facts and figures they can reel off about the vehicle’s performance, but when you take a step back and look at this vehicle, it’s easy to see just why it’s so appealing.

From the incredibly throaty engine sound that could cause a little animosity in quieter streets to that distinctive spoiler, the Impreza has really made its mark on the rallying circuit where it has enjoyed years of success.

But as a road vehicle, the Impreza can honestly deliver the ride-of-a-lifetime.

From a standing start it can race to 60mph in just five seconds and with a top speed of 158mph, it’s no wonder the kids on the block know their facts so thoroughly.

Admittedly, comfort levels are minimal despite the very supportive sports seats and just why the vehicle is fitted with a sound system that boasts tiny controls and buttons I’ll never understand because it is virtually impossible to adjust any dials whilst moving.

But, those minor gripes aside, what a car. The 2.5-litre engine delivered blistering pace and the road-holding at speed was exceptionally good thanks to the all-wheel drive.

Acceleration through the gears was awesome and the power just seems to keep on coming.

In and around town it is guaranteed to turn heads thanks to its distinctive style and sound.

But there is another appealing factor to the Impreza – it has an excellent reliability record and is reputed to have a very long engine life… no matter how hard you thrash it!

Today’s green brigade may not view it’s environmental credentials with much pleasure and you may need shares in an oil refinery, but if you can afford to keep it running, just go for it.