What are the advantages of a Subaru Impreza?

The Impreza’s main advantages are its standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, strong safety features, and versatile hatchback practicality that suit daily driving in varied weather.

This article examines how those strengths translate into real-world benefits, highlighting handling, safety, practicality, and long-term value for potential buyers or curious readers.

All-Wheel Drive and Handling

Before diving into the specifics, it helps to understand why all-wheel drive is central to the Impreza’s appeal, and how it translates into everyday handling.

• Standard symmetrical all-wheel drive across most trims, providing balanced stability and traction in rain, snow, and slick roads.


• AWD layout that contributes to confident cornering and a planted feel on a variety of surfaces.


• Consistent drivetrain performance supports predictable acceleration and braking in less-than-ideal conditions.

For drivers who face winter weather or frequent rain, the Impreza’s AWD is a tangible, day-to-day advantage that enhances security and ease of use.

Engine and Drivetrain Details

In addition to the AWD system, the Impreza typically pairs a capable 2.0-liter engine with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a manual option on select trims in earlier generations. This combination aims to balance efficiency with responsive everyday performance, while the AWD system remains the core differentiator in this segment.

Safety and Driver Assistance

Safety is a central selling point, with Subaru’s contemporary approach focusing on accessible driver aids and strong crash-performing design.

Before listing the key safety features, note how these tools contribute to driver confidence, especially for new drivers, families, and commuters.

• EyeSight driver-assist technology, including adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane-keeping assist, available on many trims.


• Strong crash-test performance across various model years, with IIHS and NHTSA ratings that reflect Subaru’s emphasis on passive and active safety.


• Good all-around visibility and a driver's-seat-to-road feel that helps anticipate and respond to roadway hazards.

These safety features and design choices translate into practical peace of mind and a reputation for safeguarding occupants in everyday driving and adverse conditions.

EyeSight and Driver-Assist Tech

EyeSight’s availability and feature set have evolved with model year updates. When equipped, it commonly includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aids that function in a wide range of speeds, enhancing both highway cruising and city commutes.

Visibility, Design, and Real-World Safety

Beyond electronic aids, the Impreza’s seating position, window geometry, and compact footprint contribute to good outward visibility and maneuverability in tight urban spaces, aiding safer driving in everyday scenarios.

Practicality and Space

Practicality is where the Impreza often shines, especially for buyers who need flexible cargo and everyday usability without stepping up to a larger SUV.

Before the list, consider how the hatchback design specifically enhances cargo and everyday carrying capacity compared with many compact sedans.

• Hatchback body style offers versatility with a wide opening and split-folding rear seats for tailoring cargo space to luggage, gear, or groceries.


• Cargo capacity, roughly 20 or so cubic feet behind the rear seats in hatchback form, expanding to more than 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded (values vary by model year); sedans offer a smaller trunk space by comparison.


• Split-fold rear seats and accessible loading height improve practicality for everyday errands and weekend trips.


• Standard or available roof rails on many trims expand capacity for bikes, kayaks, or cargo boxes, increasing versatility.

Overall, the Impreza’s layout, interior design, and cargo flexibility make it a strong performer for families, students, and anyone who values usable space in a compact package.

Value, Reliability, and Ownership Costs

Value is built on a balance of upfront cost, capability, and long-term ownership considerations, including maintenance and resale potential.

Before the list, note the factors buyers commonly weigh when assessing long-term ownership viability.

• Solid value in the compact AWD segment, thanks to standard drivetrain capability and a practical interior.


• Reliability history and a straightforward maintenance profile that keeps ownership predictable for daily use.


• Reasonable insurance costs for a compact sedan/hatchback class, with parts and service widely available through Subaru’s dealer network.


• Competitive, if not class-leading, fuel efficiency for an all-wheel-drive vehicle, contributing to lower operating costs over time.

In summary, the Impreza tends to appeal to buyers who want the security of AWD without moving up to a larger vehicle, paired with practical space and predictable maintenance costs.

Bottom Line: Who Should Consider the Impreza?

If you prioritize all-wheel drive as a baseline feature, safety technology, and daily practicality in a compact footprint, the Impreza offers a compelling package that stands out in its class.

Potential buyers should test-drive both hatchback and sedan configurations to gauge cargo flexibility and visibility, and compare trims to see how EyeSight and safety equipment are packaged on the model year you’re considering.

Summary

The Subaru Impreza delivers core advantages that matter for many buyers: standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, strong emphasis on safety features, and a versatile hatchback design that makes everyday errands and weekend adventures easier. Its combination of capable handling in inclement weather, practical interior space, and relatively straightforward ownership costs positions it as a practical choice in the compact car segment for students, small families, and daily commuters who value all-weather readiness.

What are Subaru Imprezas good for?

If you're in the market for a new car, consider a hatchback because the new Subaru Impreza has enormous appeal. With a robust driveline, reliable engine and fantastic driver-focused cabin, it's an ideal multi-purpose runabout for your family.

What is the biggest issue with a Subaru Impreza?

Top Subaru Impreza Problems

• Subaru Front O2 Sensor Recall.
• Improved Spark Plug Wires for Misfire Issues.
• Check Engine Light Due to Failed Knock Sensor.
• Cooling System Problems Cause Head Gasket Failure.
• Subaru Impreza passenger seatbelt light and alarm issue persists with no passenger present, potentia...

What are the pros and cons of the Subaru Impreza?

The Subaru Impreza's pros include standard all-wheel drive, roomy seating, and a smooth ride, making it a good option for various weather conditions. However, cons include a lack of power from the base engine, potentially bland interior design, and fuel economy that is below average for the class due to the standard AWD system.
 
You can watch this video to see a review of the 2024 Subaru Impreza's design and driving experience: 59sThe Car Care Nut ReviewsYouTube · Nov 14, 2023
Pros

• Standard All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Provides excellent traction in poor weather conditions, which is a key selling point for many buyers. 
• Roomy Interior: Offers generous seating and a comfortable cabin for passengers. 
• Smooth Ride: Generally provides a comfortable and quiet ride, especially at lower speeds. 
• Standard Safety Features: Comes with many standard or optional driver-assist features. 
• Good Value (in lower trims): The lower trims can be a great way to get all-wheel drive at a reasonable price point. 

Cons

• Lackluster Acceleration: The base engine is often criticized for being slow, though a more powerful option is available on higher trims. 
• Below-Average Fuel Economy: The standard AWD system results in lower gas mileage compared to some competitors. 
• Bland Interior: The cabin design is frequently described as uninspired or lacking premium materials. 
• Noise: Wind and engine noise can be noticeable, particularly at highway speeds or during hard acceleration. 
• Limited Cargo Space: Cargo capacity, especially in the trunk of the sedan, is less than many rivals. 

This video discusses potential issues with older Subaru Impreza models, such as engine and transmission problems: 48sAmerican Vs. ImportsYouTube · Dec 30, 2022

Which car is better, Toyota or Subaru?

Neither brand is universally "better" as the choice depends on individual priorities; Toyota is often favored for overall reliability and fuel efficiency, especially in hybrid models, while Subaru is preferred for standard all-wheel drive, off-road capability, and standard safety features. Toyota typically leads in long-term reliability ratings, while Subaru excels in performance features like its Boxer engine and symmetrical all-wheel drive.
 
Choose Toyota if:

• Maximum reliability is your top priority: Toyota has a long-standing reputation for being the gold standard in reliability and lower maintenance costs. 
• Fuel efficiency is most important: Toyota offers several highly efficient hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. 
• You need a balance of practicality and modern features: Toyota's popular models, like the RAV4, are known for their spacious interiors and tech. 

Choose Subaru if:

• You need all-wheel drive: Subaru provides standard all-wheel drive on all its models, which is ideal for snow, rain, or off-road conditions. 
• Off-road capability is a must: Subaru vehicles often have higher ground clearance and a rugged design built for adventure. 
• Standard safety features are important: Subaru includes its EyeSight safety tech as a standard feature across its lineup. 

Consider the following when comparing:

• Older vs. newer models: While newer Subaru models have addressed issues like oil consumption found in some older models, older Subaru engines (1996-2004) were known for head gasket problems. 
• Maintenance costs: Toyota's long-term maintenance costs are often lower than Subaru's, though both are considered reliable brands.