Subaru Impreza 2011 Review


The Subaru Impreza is available as a sedan or hatchback. All-wheel drive is standard. A 305-horsepower Impreza WRX STI tops the model line, both in price and in speed.
The WRX has adopted the 2010 STI model's wider body and more aggressive exterior.
The standard wheels are 17 inches, and this year they're 8 inches wide, up from 7 inches, for more grip.

All WRX models employ a turbocharged version of Subaru's 2.5-liter four-cylinder that generates 265 hp and 244 pounds-feet of torque. Satellite radio and a navigation system are options.

For 2011, the Subaru Impreza gets upgraded audio features, STI-inspired styling for the WRX and a sedan version of the WRX STI. There's something here for everyone, ranging from the sensible base Impreza 2.5i hatchback to the wickedly fast WRX STI sedan. This comprehensive lineup means the "Subaru Impreza" competes against a wide variety of other models. 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.

The 2011 Subaru Impreza is available in four-door sedan and four-door hatchback body styles. Trim levels include 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, Outback Sport, WRX, WRX Premium, WRX Limited, WRX STI and WRX STI Limited. The Outback Sport is hatchback only, while the WRX STI Limited is sedan only.

The WRX is essentially a high-performance version of the Subaru Impreza that comes with a five-speed manual transmission (no automatic is available), a turbocharged engine, summer tires, a more aggressively tuned suspension, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column and special WRX trim and body styling. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI is equipped similarly to the WRX, but ups the performance ante even further. It gains a six-speed manual transmission, 18-inch wheels, high-performance tires, Brembo brakes, front and rear limited-slip differentials, SI-Drive vehicle settings, an even more aggressively tuned suspension, a bigger hood scoop, xenon headlights, sport seats and faux-suede and leather upholstery. The Subaru Impreza WRX STI Limited adds foglights, 18-inch BBS wheels, the sunroof package and leather upholstery. A navigation system is optional on the STI trims as well.

Every 2011 Subaru Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive. In performance testing, this normally aspirated 2.5-liter engine with the manual powered the Subaru Impreza from a standstill to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. Standard on all Impreza models are antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and active front head restraints to help mitigate crash-induced whiplash. In government crash tests, the 2011 Subaru Impreza scored a perfect five stars for frontal crash protection, five stars for front occupants in a side crash and four stars for rear occupants in a side crash.

The base 2011 Subaru Impreza rides and handles satisfactorily for a compact car, and its tenacious all-wheel drive is a boon for driving in bad weather.
The Subaru Impreza has standard all-wheel drive and impressive crash test scores, making it a sure-footed option for small car shoppers. The main reason to buy the Subaru Impreza is for its safety features. If you're shopping for safety in the Affordable Small Car class, the Impreza should be on your list. For the most part, critics like the Subaru Impreza. New Car Test Drive says the Subaru Impreza is solid, safe, and simple, with the added attraction of all-wheel drive, so it's ready for any road driving condition.

All-wheel drive models of the SX4 start at about $500 less than the Impreza. The Subaru Impreza is also available in a performance trim, the Subaru Impreza WRX, which is reviewed separately.

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