Hey guys! Thinking about snagging a Subaru Impreza 2018? You've come to the right place. This review dives deep into everything you need to know, from performance and fuel economy to interior comfort and tech features. We'll break it down in a way that's easy to understand, so you can decide if this is the perfect car for you. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza 2018 is a compact car that's known for its reliability, practicality, and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Unlike many of its competitors, the Impreza comes with AWD across all trims, making it a great choice for those living in areas with challenging weather conditions. Available as both a sedan and a hatchback, the Impreza offers versatility and ample cargo space. It competes with other popular compact cars like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3, but its standard AWD gives it a unique edge.

The 2018 model year marked a continuation of the Impreza's fifth generation, which brought significant improvements in design, technology, and overall refinement. Subaru aimed to create a car that was not only safe and dependable but also enjoyable to drive and comfortable for daily use. The Impreza 2018 boasts a well-built interior, user-friendly technology, and a smooth ride quality, making it a compelling option in the crowded compact car segment. Furthermore, the Impreza's reputation for holding its value over time adds to its appeal, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Whether you're looking for a practical commuter car or a reliable vehicle for weekend adventures, the Impreza 2018 is worth considering.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the Subaru Impreza 2018 is equipped with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this might not sound like a lot, it's adequate for everyday driving. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is the more popular choice, offering smooth and efficient acceleration, but some drivers may prefer the engagement of the manual transmission. The Impreza's acceleration is decent, though it's not the quickest in its class. Expect a 0-60 mph time in the range of 8.5 to 9 seconds.

Handling is where the Impreza shines, thanks to its standard all-wheel-drive system. The AWD provides excellent traction and stability, making it confident and composed in various driving conditions. Whether you're navigating wet roads, snowy streets, or gravel paths, the Impreza feels sure-footed and planted. The steering is precise and responsive, offering good feedback and making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a smooth and compliant ride that absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road. While the Impreza isn't a sports car, it offers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience that's perfect for daily commutes and weekend getaways. The combination of AWD, comfortable ride quality, and responsive steering makes the Impreza a standout in its class.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is an important factor for many car buyers, and the Subaru Impreza 2018 delivers respectable numbers. With the CVT, the Impreza achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission version gets slightly lower ratings, at 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. These figures are competitive with other compact cars in its class, though some rivals offer slightly better fuel economy. However, it's worth noting that the Impreza's standard all-wheel drive typically results in a slight fuel economy penalty compared to front-wheel-drive vehicles.

Despite the AWD, the Impreza manages to strike a good balance between performance and efficiency. The CVT helps to optimize fuel consumption by keeping the engine in its most efficient operating range. Additionally, the Impreza's lightweight construction and aerodynamic design contribute to its fuel-saving capabilities. In real-world driving, you can expect to achieve fuel economy numbers that are close to the EPA estimates, depending on your driving habits and conditions. Overall, the Impreza 2018 offers a cost-effective and fuel-efficient transportation solution, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and long road trips. The savings on gas can add up over time, making the Impreza an even more appealing option.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Subaru Impreza 2018, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. The cabin is constructed with quality materials, and the layout is straightforward and easy to use. The seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The Impreza offers plenty of headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers, making it a comfortable car for families and groups. The rear seats can also be folded down to create a larger cargo area, adding to the Impreza's versatility.

Comfort is a priority in the Impreza, with features like automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a sunroof available on higher trim levels. The ride quality is smooth and refined, thanks to the Impreza's well-tuned suspension. Road noise is minimal, creating a quiet and relaxing cabin environment. The Impreza's interior is also designed with practicality in mind, with plenty of storage compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a touchscreen display that's easy to navigate. Overall, the Impreza's interior is a comfortable and inviting space that's perfect for daily commutes and long road trips. The attention to detail and quality materials make it a standout in its class.

Technology and Features

The Subaru Impreza 2018 comes with a range of technology features designed to enhance the driving experience. Standard features include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a rearview camera. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, a premium audio system, and Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system.

The EyeSight system includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies help to improve safety and prevent accidents. The infotainment system is user-friendly and responsive, with a clear and easy-to-navigate interface. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation services. The Impreza's technology features are well-integrated and enhance the overall driving experience. Whether you're looking for advanced safety features or convenient connectivity options, the Impreza has you covered. The combination of user-friendly technology and innovative safety systems makes the Impreza a smart and modern choice.

Safety Ratings and Features

When it comes to safety, the Subaru Impreza 2018 excels. It has earned top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA gave the Impreza a five-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+. These ratings reflect the Impreza's strong performance in crash tests and its comprehensive suite of safety features.

Safety features on the Impreza include standard antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. As mentioned earlier, the available EyeSight system adds advanced safety technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. The Impreza's all-wheel-drive system also contributes to its safety by providing enhanced traction and stability in slippery conditions. Overall, the Impreza 2018 is a safe and reliable car that offers peace of mind for drivers and passengers alike. The combination of strong crash test performance and advanced safety features makes it a top choice in its class.

Trim Levels and Options

The Subaru Impreza 2018 is available in four trim levels: base, Premium, Sport, and Limited. Each trim level offers a different set of features and options, allowing you to customize the Impreza to your specific needs and preferences.

The base model comes standard with features like all-wheel drive, a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a rearview camera. The Premium trim adds features like heated front seats, a sunroof, and alloy wheels. The Sport trim offers a sport-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler, and unique interior and exterior styling elements. The Limited trim is the top-of-the-line model, with features like leather upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen, navigation, and the EyeSight driver-assist system. Depending on your budget and priorities, you can choose the trim level that best suits your needs. Each trim level offers a great value for the money, with a range of features and options that enhance the driving experience.

Common Problems and Reliability

Overall, the Subaru Impreza 2018 is known for its reliability. However, like any car, it's not without its potential issues. Some common problems reported by owners include issues with the CVT transmission, particularly with hesitation or jerky acceleration. Others have reported problems with the infotainment system, such as glitches or freezing. It's important to note that these issues are not widespread, and many Impreza owners have had trouble-free experiences.

Reliability is a key strength of the Impreza, with Subaru's reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles. The Impreza's standard all-wheel-drive system is also known for its robustness and dependability. To ensure the longevity of your Impreza, it's important to follow the recommended maintenance schedule and address any issues promptly. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and inspections can help to keep your Impreza running smoothly for years to come. If you're considering purchasing a used Impreza, it's a good idea to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems before you buy. Overall, the Impreza is a reliable and dependable car that offers excellent value for the money.

Pricing and Value

The Subaru Impreza 2018 offers excellent value for the money, with a starting price of around $18,500. The price can increase depending on the trim level and options you choose. Even at the higher trim levels, the Impreza remains competitively priced compared to its rivals. Its standard all-wheel-drive system, combined with its fuel efficiency, safety features, and comfortable interior, make it a compelling choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Value is a key selling point for the Impreza, with its reputation for holding its value over time. Subaru vehicles are known for their longevity and durability, which means you can expect your Impreza to last for many years with proper maintenance. Additionally, the Impreza's low cost of ownership, thanks to its fuel efficiency and reliability, makes it an affordable car to own in the long run. Whether you're looking for a practical commuter car or a reliable vehicle for weekend adventures, the Impreza 2018 offers excellent value for the money. Its combination of features, performance, and reliability make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a compact car.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the Subaru Impreza 2018? Overall, it's a solid and reliable compact car that offers a lot of value for the money. Its standard all-wheel-drive system sets it apart from many of its competitors, making it a great choice for those living in areas with challenging weather conditions. The Impreza's comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and strong safety ratings make it a well-rounded and practical car for daily use.

While the Impreza's engine may not be the most powerful in its class, it's adequate for everyday driving. The Impreza's fuel economy is respectable, and its handling is confident and composed. Whether you're looking for a practical commuter car or a reliable vehicle for weekend adventures, the Impreza 2018 is worth considering. Its combination of features, performance, and reliability make it a smart choice for anyone looking for a compact car. If you value safety, reliability, and all-wheel drive, the Impreza should definitely be on your list.