I am a former sportscar driver (350z) and the transition has been pretty seamless.
rn
rnThe steering feels a bit floaty compared to the Z but otherwise this car is money.
I am a former sportscar driver (350z) and the transition has been pretty seamless.
rn
rnThe steering feels a bit floaty compared to the Z but otherwise this car is money.
I used to drive a Nissan 350Z, but now have transitioned into a freelance job & need to transport gear. The Impreza can fit a TON of gear. I also love the splitting 60/40 rear seats because I can access one of my packs from the passenger door if there isn't room to open the hatch lid. Makes it easy to keep a modular & segmented packing system for me.
It takes a while for the engine & drivetrain to break in, but when they do you will start to see some very impressive numbers on the ODO. I'm at ~2600 miles right now and averaging 29-30 mpg between 50% open freeway cruising, 25% freeway traffic, 25% city driving.
I love the look of these new '12-13 Subaru Imprezas. With the sport racks it gives a nice outdoorsy look to the car, while still being a small vehicle (only 3 inches longer than my 350Z yet can pack SO MUCH more gear) and street-friendly. Very quiet engine, too.
AWD and fuel economy combined? Sold.
Subaru is legendary for the durability & craftsmanship of the engine, powertrain, and vehicle frame. The interior may not be luxury, but that's fine by me.
The OEM tires are garbage. Ridiculously noisy on certain road surfaces.
If you value music highly, and audio clarity & depth... this car may not be for you in its stock configuration. The speakers & acoustics of the Impreza Sport Limited are not impressive in the least. I didn't opt for any upgrades there, but I'm not an audiophile.
The lumbar support is slightly lacking for me, but I have dancer-like posture so it could just be my preference. The seats are very plush and well-designed otherwise... go sit in one.
The chromed area surrounding the shift knob acts as a perfect reflector for sunlight, blinding me as I drive. I may design some kind of applique for it to reduce the glare. I am a 6' male.
If you're an audiophile & value interior luxuries, the Subie may not be for you.
Honda Fit - NO
Mazda CX-5 - YES but rear visibility is nil
Toyota RAV4 - MAYBE but the CX-5 is a better driver