2018 Subaru Impreza Sport: Review, Specs, & Reliability

Kim Anderson
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2018 Subaru Impreza Sport: Review, Specs, & Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a compact car that blends practicality, sporty styling, and Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system. If you're considering this vehicle, you likely have questions about its performance, reliability, and features. This in-depth review covers everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

What Makes the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport Stand Out?

The 2018 Impreza Sport distinguishes itself from the base model with several key upgrades:

  • Sport-tuned suspension: Offers a more engaging driving experience.
  • 18-inch alloy wheels: Enhance the car's sporty appearance.
  • Sport-specific exterior trim: Includes unique styling elements.
  • Interior upgrades: Features sport seats and red stitching.

These enhancements, combined with Subaru's standard all-wheel drive, make the Impreza Sport a compelling option in the compact car segment.

Performance and Handling

Engine and Transmission

The 2018 Impreza Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this might not seem like a lot on paper, the Impreza Sport provides adequate power for daily driving. Our testing shows that the engine is responsive enough for city commutes and highway merging.

The standard transmission is a five-speed manual, which enthusiasts will appreciate. However, most buyers opt for the available continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT simulates gear changes to provide a more natural driving feel, but some drivers may still find it less engaging than a traditional automatic.

Driving Dynamics

The Impreza Sport's sport-tuned suspension delivers a firmer ride compared to the base model, which translates to better handling in corners. The steering is precise and provides good feedback, making the car feel planted and confident. In our analysis, the Impreza Sport excels in its ability to maintain composure on winding roads.

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a major selling point. It provides excellent traction in all weather conditions, giving drivers added peace of mind. This system continuously distributes power to all four wheels, ensuring optimal grip and stability. Drew Gulliver OnlyFans Leaks: Facts And Insights

Interior and Features

Cabin Comfort

The 2018 Impreza Sport offers a comfortable and well-designed interior. The sport seats provide good support, and the red stitching adds a touch of sporty flair. The cabin is spacious for a compact car, with ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats.

The Impreza Sport's interior materials are generally of good quality, although some hard plastics are present. Overall, the cabin feels durable and well-assembled.

Technology and Features

The 2018 Impreza Sport comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing seamless integration with smartphones. An optional 8-inch touchscreen is available, which adds more functionality and a larger display. USC Vs. Alabama: A Gridiron Showdown!

Standard features on the Impreza Sport include:

  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • USB ports
  • A rearview camera
  • A six-speaker audio system

Optional features include:

  • A sunroof
  • Keyless entry with push-button start
  • Blind-spot monitoring
  • Rear cross-traffic alert
  • Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system

Cargo Space

The 2018 Impreza Sport offers a generous amount of cargo space for a compact car. The sedan provides 12.3 cubic feet of trunk space, while the hatchback offers 20.8 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. The hatchback is the more practical choice for those who need to carry larger items.

Reliability and Safety

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Impreza has a good reputation for reliability. J.D. Power gives the 2018 Impreza a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, which is considered above average. However, some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission. It's advisable to research these potential issues and consider purchasing an extended warranty for added peace of mind.

Safety

The 2018 Impreza Sport excels in safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 2018 Impreza a five-star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2018 Impreza a Top Safety Pick. These ratings reflect the Impreza's strong performance in crash tests and its available safety features.

The Impreza Sport comes standard with a rearview camera, and optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Subaru's EyeSight system. EyeSight includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

Fuel Economy

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport offers competitive fuel economy for a compact car with all-wheel drive. According to the EPA, the Impreza Sport with the CVT transmission achieves 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission version is slightly less efficient, with ratings of 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.

Real-world fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. However, the Impreza Sport generally provides good fuel efficiency for its class.

Pricing and Value

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is priced competitively within the compact car segment. The starting price is around $20,000, making it an accessible option for many buyers. Considering its standard all-wheel drive, sporty features, and strong safety ratings, the Impreza Sport offers good value for the money.

Pros:

  • Standard all-wheel drive
  • Sporty handling
  • Comfortable interior
  • Good safety ratings
  • Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility

Cons:

  • Engine power could be more robust
  • CVT transmission may not appeal to all drivers
  • Some hard plastics in the interior

Common Questions About the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport

Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport reliable?

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport has an above-average reliability rating from J.D. Power, but some owners have reported issues with the CVT transmission. Regular maintenance and addressing any issues promptly can help ensure long-term reliability.

Does the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport have good gas mileage?

Yes, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport achieves good fuel economy for a compact car with all-wheel drive, with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway for the CVT version.

What are the safety features on the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport?

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport comes standard with a rearview camera. Optional safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Subaru's EyeSight system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.

What is the difference between the 2018 Subaru Impreza and the Impreza Sport?

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport offers several upgrades over the base model, including a sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-specific exterior trim, and interior enhancements like sport seats and red stitching. Vikings Vs. Chargers: Epic NFL Clash Analysis

Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport a good car for winter driving?

Yes, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is an excellent car for winter driving due to its standard symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which provides superior traction and stability in snowy and icy conditions.

Conclusion: Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport Right for You?

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a well-rounded compact car that offers a compelling combination of sporty handling, standard all-wheel drive, and a comfortable interior. Its strong safety ratings and available technology features make it a practical and appealing choice for a wide range of drivers.

If you value all-weather capability, engaging driving dynamics, and a reputation for reliability, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is worth considering. We recommend test driving both the manual and CVT versions to determine which transmission best suits your driving style. Contact your local Subaru dealer today to schedule a test drive and explore the Impreza Sport's features firsthand.

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