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Friday, June 24, 2011
Browsing through the 2011 Subaru Impreza lineup is akin to strolling down the cereal aisle at the supermarket. There's something here for everyone, ranging from the sensible base Impreza 2.5i hatchback to the wickedly fast WRX STI sedan. With such a wide-ranging lineup, it can actually take a bit of time to figure out what kind of Impreza you want.
The 2011 Subaru Impreza incorporates a number of changes that you'll want to pay attention to. Every Impreza trim level except the base model gets as standard equipment an updated audio system that features iPod integration and Bluetooth connectivity, though sound quality itself still ranks as subpar. There's also a new option for an inexpensive and removable (but dealer-installed) TomTom navigation system.
Those who crave performance will want to check out the 2011 Subaru WRX, which gets not only the STI's wide-body fenders but also improved handling thanks to wider wheels, wider track dimensions and stiffer subframe bushings. And then there's the STI itself, which gets a firmer suspension calibration and lighter wheels to sharpen its handling as well as a few more standard features (such as heated seats). This year is also the first year of the current-generation Impreza where you can order the WRX STI as a sedan in addition to the pre-existing hatchback.
This comprehensive lineup means the Impreza competes against a wide variety of other models. Base Imprezas go up against compacts such as the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Mazda 3 and Volkswagen Golf. The Impreza is neither as fuel-efficient nor as value-driven as its rivals, but it does offer standard all-wheel drive, a notable advantage for those who live where rain and snow are a way of life. The Outback Sport hatchback, with its increased ground clearance and extra body cladding, can even serve as an alternative to a compact crossover SUV.
The performance-tuned WRX belongs to the sport compact club that also includes the Mazdaspeed 3, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart and Volkswagen GTI. Though lacking in features and refinement, the WRX is like Olympic runner Usain Bolt, as it boasts swift acceleration that beats them all. The WRX STI is a rally-bred performance machine that remains a compelling choice for Fast & Furious types drawn to big turbos, all-wheel drive and limited-slip differentials. Of course, the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is an omnipresent thorn in the STI's side; enthusiasts are encouraged to test-drive both of these road rockets to see which suits them best.
As you've gathered by now, there are plenty of flavors of the Subaru Impreza. Whether you're a snow-belt resident looking for a basic compact with the advantage of all-wheel drive or a serious performance enthusiast seeking the sweet sensation of turbocharged thrust and agile handling, there's likely an Impreza worthy of a test-drive.
Reviewers agree that while there is plenty of head and legroom in the Impreza’s front seats, the lack of a tilt and telescoping steering wheel on most models makes finding an ideal driving position difficult. Also, the seats themselves seem a bit stiff. Still, those in the rear seat of the Subaru Impreza should have more than enough room.
For the Impreza’s price, its standard features list runs a bit short. It does offer amenities like air conditioning, an audio system with MP3/WMA capability, power windows and mirrors, but there are many less expensive cars that offer these and more. Furthermore, while the controls in the base model are simple to read and use, adding navigation absorbs the stereo controls, which complicates things. Some reviewers also complain about the stereo’s sound quality.
The Suzuki SX4 costs over $1,500 less than the Impreza, also offers all-wheel drive and comes with a similar lineup of interior features. If you upgrade to the SX4 Crossover Technology model (about $17,700), you’ll get a built-in pop-up navigation system standard for only $200 more than you would pay for a base Impreza.
The Impreza’s cargo space varies depending on whether you buy a sedan or hatchback model. The sedan only offers 11.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the trunk, which isn’t bad for the class but isn’t particularly impressive either. On the other hand, the hatchback model has a split folding rear seatback that offers an impressive 19 cubic feet of space with all seats in use and 44.4 cubic feet with the rear seat folded -- which is a lot for a small car.
The WRX builds on the 2.5i and adds 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control, larger brakes, sport-tuned suspension, rear stabilizer bar, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, hood scoop, electroluminescent gauges, cloth rally-style seats, fixed rear seat with folding centre armrest, stereo auxiliary input, aluminum sport pedals, and leather-wrapped wheel.
The Subaru Impreza gets mixed reviews from the automotive press for styling. The hatchback models generally get good reviews, and are described as aggressive and rugged. However, many think the base sedan looks boring.
he Impreza Outback Sport is a more rugged Impreza, similar to how Volvo distinguishes the V70 from the XC70. It's only available as a four-door hatchback featuring a two-tone appearance, with the lower section of the body a contrasting silver hue.
Even with the flared cyclops nostril in the hood, the 2.5 GT flies under the radar more easily than the bulged and bescooped WRX. Handsome 17-inch alloy wheels finish off the GT, and the more you look at it, the better it gets.
Every 2011 Subaru Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive. The 2.5i and Outback Sport models are powered by a 2.5-liter horizontally opposed (boxer) four-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission with hill-start assist is standard and a four-speed automatic is optional.
In performance testing, this normally aspirated 2.5-liter engine with the manual powered the Impreza from a standstill to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. Though it benefits from all-wheel drive, estimated fuel economy is subsequently below average for a small car with this type of power -- the manual gets 20 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined, while the automatic drops the highway number to 26 mpg.
The WRX has a turbocharged version of the 2.5 that cranks out 265 hp and 244 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual is the lone transmission choice. Its 0-60 time in testing was a snappy 5.3 seconds, while fuel economy estimates are 18/25/21. The WRX STI gets even more turbo boost for 305 hp and 290 lb-ft of torque. With its standard six-speed manual, the STI achieves fuel economy of 17/23/19 and, more important, reaches 60 mph in a blazing 4.5 seconds.
In addition to standard all-wheel drive, the Subaru Impreza comes with six airbags, anti-lock brakes with brakeforce distribution and brake assist, electronic stability control, and a traction control system.
While the 2011 Impreza has yet to be crash tested, the very-similar 2010 Impreza did very well in government crash tests. It earned a top score of five stars for both driver and passenger protection in a front-end collision, as well as for front passenger protection in a side-impact collision. In addition, it earned four stars for rear passenger protection in a side-impact collision. The Impreza earned a four-star rating in rollover testing, which means it only has a 10 percent chance of rollover in a single vehicle crash.
The insurance industry named the 2011 Impreza a “Top Safety Pick” for receiving a top score of “Good” in all tests for passenger protection in front-end, side impact and rear crash protection collisions, as well as in roof strength tests and standard electronic stability control.
reference:www.autos.ca,usnews.rankingsandreviews.com,www.edmunds.com
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