Subaru Impreza.(Small Sedans - Road Test)(Cover Story)(Evaluation)

The Impreza's well-engineered chassis provides a balance of ride and handling that's comparable to far costlier cars. With precise steering, a compliant ride, and agile handling, it's fun to drive. Although the Impreza carries a higher price than the other cars here, it's still the least expensive all-wheel-drive sedan. Drawbacks include a tight rear seat and the worst fuel economy of the group.

THE DRIVING EXPERIENCE

The Impreza 2.5 RS rides like a European car: firm and tightly controlled but compliant. The cabin stays almost as quiet as the Corolla's. Communicative steering and beautifully well-balanced cornering behavior make this car a pleasure to drive. Its 39-foot turning circle, though, is wide for a typical small car. The 2.5 RS proved competent on our track's twists and turns. But in our avoidance-maneuver test, the tail wanted to slide out as the car approached its limits, requiring driver correction to keep it on course.

The 165-hp, 2.5-liter flat Four performs well, but the Impreza averaged just 22 mpg overall on regular fuel. The four-speed automatic shifts smoothly, but the shift lever slides too easily past Drive and into third gear. Braking performance was very good overall, but the brake-pedal feel was a little mushy.

INSIDE THE CAR

The interior is trimmed to be sporty. You'll find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, bright accents, and rally-inspired bucket seats. Overall, the plastic trim is well finished and nicely put together. A high driving position yields a good view out. The deeply contoured seats are very comfortable. Side bolsters help hold you in place during tight cornering, but some people may find the bolsters too confining. Two adults won't be comfortable in the tight rear seat. Access is aided by assist grips above each door.

Gauges are clearly legible and most controls are easy to reach and use, but we had some minor complaints: Some secondary controls are unlit and hard to find at night; the audio controls are small; and the primary climate-control knobs turn stiffly. The cabin has numerous small bins, pockets, and nooks for storage. The front has one sturdy and one flimsy cup holder, and there are no cup holders in the rear.