Impressive Impreza

Subaru shocked its traditional fans a few years back when it introduced a hatchback Impreza.

The idea was to place this iconic nameplate in the hands of mainstream buyers who were looking for quality, safety and affordability of a different flavour.

Although loyalists were peeved to the core, truth is they aren't bad cars at all.

Perhaps you have been bitten by the exclusivity bug and are in the market for a unique run-around. If the Subaru Impreza has drawn your eye, expect a very capable all-rounder.

All are powered by the company's famous flat-four 'boxer' engine. These engines feature horizontally-opposed pistons instead of the now universal vertical position of every other car except Porsche.

The Impreza can be found in two, naturally-aspirated 1,5-litre and 2,0-litre versions, while are the famed 2.5-litre turbocharged WRX and WRX STI versions also available.

Performance seekers should look exclusively to the top two models which are powered by the same four-cylinder engine but in turbocharged form.

At first, WRX models boasted 180kW and 320 Nm while the STI packed 220kW and 400Nm. However, by the end of the run, the WRX power had bulged to 230kW and 420Nm. Beware; these two empty their fuel tanks rapidly!

All Impreza models have two common features regardless of power or price. These are a manual five-speed gearbox and the AWD (All-Wheel Drive). The chief aim is to enhance traction whether the roads are dry, wet, iced or even dirt-type. AWD also enhances driving dynamics and the truly adventurous can solicit some spectacular drifts.

Be aware that lower models are equipped with ABS but are devoid of traction control electronics. This shouldn't be much bother as the AWD largely guarantees stability.

Luxury and safety features depend largely on model range but even the two entry-level models were satisfactorily equipped with the usual items such as air-conditioning, electric windows, a decent entertainment system and central locking. In higher spec models, the list will include Recaro bucket seats, a sun-roof and multifunction steering wheel.

Take care with seat choice - the range came with the option of either full leather, partly leather-clad or total cloth covering. Boot space is sadly not of the deep kind.

Overall they are perfectly "good" cars built to the same exacting standard as their Japanese counterparts.

You'd need to be aware of the kind of cash needed to own WRX models, which should be on a par with exotic German rivals. However, lesser cars should not eat into your pocket more than an average VW Golf would.

The 2.0-litre naturally-aspirated variant is the pick but for kicks either of the two WRX cars will do. Prices start from about R129000 for early 1.5R models and range to R489000 for late WRX STI models.