2018 Subaru Impreza Sport: Review, Specs & More

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, a car that's been turning heads and winning hearts. If you're in the market for a reliable, sporty, and practical compact car, then buckle up because this review is for you. We're going to cover everything from its performance and features to its interior and overall driving experience. So, let's get started and see what makes the 2018 Impreza Sport such a compelling choice.

Overview of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a standout in the compact car segment, blending practicality with a touch of sporty flair. It's designed for those who need a dependable daily driver but still crave a bit of excitement behind the wheel. One of the most appealing aspects of the Impreza Sport is its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, a feature that sets it apart from many of its competitors. This makes it an excellent choice for drivers who live in areas with challenging weather conditions, such as snow or rain.

Beyond its AWD capability, the Impreza Sport offers a well-rounded package that includes a comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and a range of features that enhance both convenience and safety. It's available as both a sedan and a hatchback, giving buyers the flexibility to choose the body style that best suits their needs. The hatchback, in particular, offers impressive cargo space, making it a practical option for those who frequently haul gear or groceries. The Impreza Sport's reputation for reliability and durability further adds to its appeal, making it a smart long-term investment for budget-conscious buyers.

The exterior design of the 2018 Impreza Sport is both modern and sporty, with distinctive styling cues that set it apart from the base Impreza model. Unique alloy wheels, a rear spoiler, and sporty accents give it a more aggressive and dynamic look. Inside, the cabin is well-appointed with comfortable seats, intuitive controls, and a range of available features such as a sunroof, upgraded infotainment system, and advanced safety technologies. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a compelling combination of practicality, performance, and value that makes it a top contender in the compact car market.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a balanced and engaging driving experience. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this may not seem like a lot on paper, it provides adequate power for daily driving and commuting. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on your preference. The manual transmission offers a more engaging driving experience, while the CVT provides smooth and efficient acceleration.

One of the standout features of the Impreza Sport is its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which provides excellent traction and stability in a variety of driving conditions. This makes the Impreza Sport a confident and capable performer, whether you're navigating slippery roads or tackling challenging terrain. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and handling, offering a smooth ride on the highway while still providing responsive handling on twisty roads. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you a good feel for the road.

In terms of fuel economy, the 2018 Impreza Sport delivers respectable numbers. The CVT-equipped models achieve an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, while the manual transmission models get slightly lower ratings. Overall, the Impreza Sport offers a satisfying blend of performance, handling, and fuel efficiency that makes it a joy to drive. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a weekend road trip, the Impreza Sport is up to the task. The combination of its all-wheel-drive system, responsive handling, and comfortable ride make it a standout in its class.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, you'll find a well-designed and comfortable cabin that's packed with features. The interior is both functional and stylish, with high-quality materials and a layout that's easy to navigate. The seats are supportive and comfortable, providing ample space for both front and rear passengers. The Impreza Sport also offers a generous amount of cargo space, especially in the hatchback version, making it a practical choice for families or anyone who needs to haul gear.

In terms of technology, the 2018 Impreza Sport comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system that includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to easily connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation features. Other standard features include a rearview camera, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port. Available upgrades include an 8-inch touchscreen display, a premium audio system, and a sunroof.

One of the standout features of the Impreza Sport is its EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes features such as adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to enhance safety and prevent accidents, giving you added peace of mind on the road. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a comfortable and well-equipped space that's designed to enhance your driving experience. From its comfortable seats and intuitive controls to its advanced technology and safety features, the Impreza Sport has everything you need to stay connected, entertained, and safe on the road.

Reliability and Safety

When it comes to reliability and safety, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport excels in both areas. Subaru has a long-standing reputation for building durable and dependable vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. The Impreza Sport is built on a solid platform and features high-quality components that are designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. Additionally, Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides added traction and stability, making it a safer vehicle to drive in a variety of conditions.

In terms of safety, the 2018 Impreza Sport has earned top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It has received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, making it one of the safest vehicles in its class. The Impreza Sport comes standard with a range of safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. Available safety features include Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a reliable and safe vehicle that provides peace of mind for both drivers and passengers. Its durable construction, advanced safety features, and top safety ratings make it a smart choice for anyone who values safety and reliability. Whether you're commuting to work or taking a long road trip, the Impreza Sport is designed to keep you and your passengers safe and secure.

Potential Drawbacks

While the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport has a lot to offer, it's not without its potential drawbacks. One of the main criticisms of the Impreza Sport is its engine performance. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for daily driving, but it can feel a bit underpowered when accelerating or passing on the highway. Additionally, the CVT transmission can sometimes feel sluggish, especially when trying to accelerate quickly.

Another potential drawback of the Impreza Sport is its interior design. While the interior is functional and well-laid-out, it's not the most stylish or luxurious in its class. Some may find the materials to be a bit basic, and the overall design to be somewhat bland. Additionally, the infotainment system can be slow to respond at times, and the touchscreen can be difficult to use while driving.

Finally, the Impreza Sport's fuel economy is not as good as some of its competitors. While it's not terrible, it's not the best in its class either. The CVT-equipped models achieve an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, which is decent but not exceptional. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport has a lot to offer, but it's important to be aware of its potential drawbacks before making a purchase.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport? Overall, it's a well-rounded and capable compact car that offers a lot of value for the money. Its standard all-wheel-drive system, comfortable interior, and advanced safety features make it a standout in its class. While it may not be the most powerful or luxurious vehicle on the market, it's a reliable and practical choice that's perfect for daily driving and commuting.

If you're looking for a compact car that's safe, reliable, and fun to drive, then the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is definitely worth considering. Its sporty styling, comfortable interior, and available features make it a great choice for anyone who wants a vehicle that's both practical and enjoyable. Whether you're a first-time car buyer or a seasoned driver, the Impreza Sport is sure to impress. So, go ahead and take it for a test drive – you might just fall in love!