2018 Subaru Impreza review

What We Like

Driving: It may be low on power and slow to accelerate, but the Impreza makes up for this deficit with excellent handling and drivability. Steering is quick and responsive, with good feedback, and the brakes are strong and easy to modulate. With the grip of full-time all-wheel drive and a solid chassis, the Impreza handles well with very little body lean in the corners. The available manual gearbox is a nice addition, offering better engagement than the CVT (continuously variable transmission).

Interior: The Impreza may be a compact car, but the inside feels quite roomy, with large windows and good headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel combined with the multi-adjustable driver's seat creates a good driving position for a range of drivers. The seats are mounted high enough that sliding in and out is easy, further aided by the wide-opening doors.

Technology: Subaru offers two infotainment displays in the Impreza, with the larger eight-inch touchscreen in the Sport and Limited trims. Both screens feature good graphics with logical navigation via large, easy-to-read icons similar to smartphones. Apple CarPlay^® and Android Auto^™ are standard on all trim levels. EyeSight^® driver-assist systems with automatic emergency braking and other advanced driver-assist features are available on all CVT-equipped Imprezas.

What Needs Improvement

Utility: The cargo areas of the five-door hatchback and four-door sedan are smaller than other models in the class, although the hatchback offers a bit more space. This lack of space can be alleviated in either body style by folding down the folding split rear seat. Storage spaces in the cabin are limited, with shallow door pockets and a small center console storage cubby.