Overview:
This week we’re looking at the 2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited 4-door sedan. Yep, it’s a compact and it is in a class that is very crowded with competitors because it is one of the more popular segments of the market. It is affordable for all you get including a reasonable cost of operations. In addition to the price issues, the size is very serviceable and it is worth mentioning again that it is stingy on gas. Perfect in today’s world.
I’ve never felt so uncertain about ‘everything’ and cars are at the top of that list of everything because of the unstable gas prices. Is the government playing games with the economy while the man in the street is struggling to make a living, pay the rent and put food on the table and have reasonable transportation cost. They are stonewalling everything like we don’t know what they are doing. The support for that statement is simple – Approval rating of government is 10-15%. Well, we’ll see what happens in November when Change is sure to be coming. Then the drilling can resume, gas prices can stabilize and confidence will get us back to work. I’m tired of putting out $100 to fill the tank and do it again in a week. I’m not a happy camper.
Finally this Subaru is a trusted brand that you will rarely hear negative comments. Subaru simply has been a consistent company and performer.
General Information:
Parts from the US / Canada 0%, Japan 100%. It is assembled in Japan. Classification is Compact. Cars from Subaru: BRZ, Forester, Impreza, Impreza WRX, Legacy, Outback and Tribeca.
Handling & Performance:
Just fine handling since it is average in size but you won’t win many drag races with only 148 horsepower. But then I don’t imagine anyone expects more from an economy compact and neither do I. But I did appreciate the fuel to performance ratio generally and that is especially so when you consider it is an all wheel drive vehicle.
Performance is enhance by control features such as dynamic control, traction control, brake assist with brake force distribution technology. In addition it has a complete air bag system for safety.
Styling:
Nice clean lines and conventional styling.
Fit and Finish:
Very Good.
Cost:
A good value commuter that will serve well as a small family sedan.
Conveniences and comfort:
I wasn’t happy with the electronic screen display. It is not easy to see and that was frustrating in using audio controls which was difficult to operate even for my passengers. Subaru – that needs some attention. Settings and Bluetooth were only fair and not as user friendly as they should and could be. But these are things only I would notice since once hands free and audio settings are done you won’t do much changing again, so I doubt it will be as irritating to you.
Overall it delivered a comfortable ride and the USB and iPod connectivity is appreciated in any car. Bluetooth of course should be standard equipment on all cars since it is a safety matter.
Consumer Recommendation:
The field of competitors is 25 strong and that is a tough one to trim down to a manageable number. Price is for the most part very close with the exception of the Audi and the Volvo that almost seem out of place in the lineup. Subaru is a must to include in your evaluation, however, because it sets itself apart with standard all wheel drive and with comparable fuel economy to boot.
I would also include Hyundai, Chevy Cruze, Kia and VW that are standout in my mind. Then sprinkle in a few others including your favorite brands.
Recognized Competition:
Subaru Impreza $22,000, Audi S4 $48,000, Dodge Dart $16,000, Volkswagen Beetle $19,000, Hyundai Elantra Touring $16,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution $34,000, Scion tC $19,000, Volvo C30 $25,000, Chevrolet Cruze $17,000, Mazda 3 $15,000, Volkswagen Golf $18,000, Nissan Sentra $16,000, Hyundai Elantra $17,000, Kia Forte Koup $17,000, Ford Focus $17,000, Honda Fit $15,000, Honda Civic $16,000, Chevrolet HHR $19,000, Honda Civic Hybrid $24,000, Toyota Matrix $19,000, Mitsubishi Lancer Sportback $18,000, Toyota Corolla $16,000, Mitsubishi Lancer $16,000.
Good News:
Affordable, good fuel numbers, all wheel drive standard and a trusted brand.
Bad News:
Subaru needs to look at improving the video display.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 4 cylinder 148 horsepower engine, automatic transmission, symmetrical all wheel drive, 4-wheel independent suspension, dynamic control, front, side and side curtain and driver knee airbag system, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist and electronic brake force distribution, tire pressure monitor, anti theft alarm and immobilizer system, variable intermittent wipers, 17 “ aluminum alloy wheels, climate control, audio with CD, aux input and steering wheel mounted controls, Bluetooth hands free phone system, cruise control, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows and door locks and power mirrors, remote keyless entry, leather trim and steering wheel and shifter, all weather package with heated front seats.
Gas Stats:
$3.99/ Gal avg. August 20, 2012
For more information.
27 City and 36 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $21,695.
