Impreza like a movie star

Jan 26 2009 Peter Hayward

WHEN the new Subaru Impreza came out I thought the hatchback shape would put off many of those who hanker after this most iconic of cars.

It looks quite ordinary in lower order models, but then came the WRX STi and it changed everything.

It's still a five door hatch but with pumped-up wheel arches, spoilers, huge wheels and tyres and a bonnet air scoop big enough for an F16 jet, it looks like something from the movies.

And once behind the wheel it can feel like something from the movies too.

The clutch is hefty and the gearchange notchy and occasionally obstructive but I did get used to them after a couple of days.

Drive as a normal car and it feels like a normal car with a little extra power. Drive it as a road going rally car and it chews up the tarmac and spits out gravel.

Acceleration is mind-blowing with a marvellous soundtrack, road holding and grip almost unbelievable from a four wheel drive system and ride just about comfortable enough most of the time.

Interior

Leather and suede sports seats are comfortable and supportive and all the controls are right to hand.

That said, the interior is a little disappointingly bland in a car costing more than £25,000, when I know the company has done much better with the Legacy.

FAST FACTS

Subaru Impreza

Price : £25,984

Mechanical : 295bhp, 2,457cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving four wheels via 6spd manual gearbox

Max speed : 155mph

0-62mph : 5 secs

Combined mpg : 27

Insurance group : 19

CO2 emissions : 243g/km

BiK rating : 35%

Warranty : 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust

Marks : 9/10

Main rival : Ford Focus ST