- For: Equipment, all-wheel-drive, practicality
- Against: Sluggish performance, no manual option, far too expensive
- Verdict: A capable family hatchback
If you’re after a reliable family car that’s good in all weathers, along with being safe and well-equipped, the Subaru Impreza makes sense.
It’s packed with many features as standard, some of which would be options on rivals. There is now just a single 1.6-litre petrol engine after the earlier 2.0-litre was dropped. It is mated to a standard CVT transmission.
This drains what little power is available from the 1.6, making progress frustrating. We much preferred the 2.0-litre, even if it wasn’t as economical (not that this 1.6 is particularly fuel-efficient).
The Impreza drives well, thanks in part to a lowered ride height and body that’s 100 percent more rigid than before.
The boot is one of the largest in its class, while there’s room for five adults in the cabin.
It’s often overlooked, despite Subaru’s reputation for reliability. We can’t help but think the heady list price of nearly £27k does it no favours…
KEY INFO
- Launched: 2017
- Facelifted: 2020
- Due for replacement: 2022