2018 Subaru Impreza Review

Detailed Review

The Subaru Impreza availed its first generation in 1992 and remained in production until 2000. The second version of the Impreza was manufactured from 2000 to 2007. The third generation of the Impreza commenced its production in 2007 and continued until 2011.

The fourth iteration of the Impreza started its production in 2011 and lasted up to 2016. The fifth generation of Impreza was manufactured from 2016 to 2023. It was the first model based on the new Subaru Global Platform. Its suspension system gives better comfort when compared to its predecessors. The Subaru Impreza is currently in its sixth generation designated as GU.

The 2018 Subaru Impreza comes with one engine option, a 2.0 L (Petrol) linked to either a 5-speed manual transmission or CVT.

2018 Subaru Impreza grades

1. Subaru Impreza 2.0i- This grade comes with an auto-dimming mirror, an Immobilizer, a driver footrest, body-colored door handles, Bluetooth connectivity, power mirrors, and power windows.
2. Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium- This grade features brake assist, electronic brake force distribution, climate control, cruise control, a multi-function display screen, and power locks.
3. Subaru Impreza 2.0i Sport- This grade comes equipped with navigation via a mobile phone, a 12-volt power outlet, a Trip Computer, a voice activation system, and an all-wheel drive system.
4. Subaru Impreza 2.0i Limited- This grade has traction control, a trunk spoiler, Auto-dimming mirrors with compass, multiple airbags, Parking assistance, and a theft deterrent system.

Interior

Legroom & Space

The 2018 Subaru Impreza has a less luxurious interior than its rivals but is somewhat appealing. The first row boasts plenty of legroom and headroom and the seats can recline to match your preferred posture. The second row has ample knee room and headroom.

Cabin Storage

The 2018 Subaru Impreza has various storage compartments that are used for storing or holding different items including beverages and documents. The first row has two cupholders, a center console, a glove box compartment, and door panel storage. The second row includes jacket pockets, two cupholders, and door pockets.

Boot Space

The 2018 Subaru Impreza comes with two body designs either the hatchback or sedan and has a spacious boot space that can hold small and medium-sized luggage. If more space is required, the rear seats can be folded.

Exterior

The 2018 Subaru Impreza features an attractive and sporty design language as both the hatchback and sedan have LED daytime running lights plus headlights which gives it a modern feel. A nicely curved chrome grille that sits in the front end is adorned with the famous Subaru emblem that makes it assert its dominance wherever it goes. Fog lights and air events that improve aerodynamics are both incorporated into the lower fascia.

The side profile of the Impreza is very conservative. The rear end features tail lights and turn signals. On the hatchback models, the lip spoiler is attached to the sloping roof line while the sedans have their lip spoiler placed on the trunk.

2018 Subaru Impreza Safety Features

The 2018 Subaru Impreza features traction control, stability control, an anti-locking braking system, multiple airbags, and electronic brake force distribution. It also incorporates Starlink Safety Plus telematics system which includes emergency assistance and automatic collision notification.

2018 Subaru Impreza Fuel Consumption

2018 Subaru Impreza 1.6 L petrol engine consumption- 16.2 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0 L petrol engine consumption- 15.0 km/l on average

2018 Subaru Impreza Acceleration

2018 Subaru Impreza 1.6 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 12.2 secs

2018 Subaru Impreza 2.0 L petrol engine accelerates from 0-100km/h in 9.7 secs

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Fuel Tank Capacity: 50 liters

Ground Clearance

The 2018 Subaru Impreza has a ground clearance of 5.1 inches which is below the required standard of 6.5 inches on Kenyan roads.

Service Intervals

Minor Service: At 5,000 km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil.

Major Service: At 10,000km. Requires Air Cleaner, Oil Filter, Fuel Filter, ATF Filter, Cabin Filter, Plugs, Front Brake Pads, Rear Brake Pads, ATF Oil, and Engine Oil.

Spare Parts and Availability

Service parts are available and fairly priced in Kenya. Body parts on the other hand are expensive and mostly available from Subaru Kenya.

Stability And Handling

The 2018 Subaru Impreza has a smooth and pleasant ride. The steering wheel responds very well to road curvature making it easy for the driver to control the car. Its suspension system cushions occupants from experiencing any kind of jarring movements especially when driving on uneven road surfaces.

The all-wheel-drive system is standard on all Impreza’s whether it is a hatchback or sedan, hence it appeals to enthusiasts who like off-road driving but owing to its low ground clearance, off-road driving could damage its body components. The braking system of the Impreza is very robust as it can bring this car to a stop in a matter of seconds which helps in averting potential accidents.

Other technologies incorporated in the Impreza to improve its stability include traction control, brake assist, and electronic brake force distribution.

Reliability

The 2018 Subaru Impreza is considered a reliable car. Owing to its low ground clearance, the Impreza is hindered from exploiting off-road terrains due to the risk of damaging its body components. Rough idling, and brake line issues are the most common problems reported by Impreza Owners. Regular service and maintenance are required to avoid experiencing such issues.

Refer to the Subaru Impreza buyer guide for a thorough reliability report. We also urge that you always follow the instructions in the owner’s manual.

Resale Value: Good

Subaru Impreza Competitors: Toyota Auris, Mazda Axela, VW Golf, Audi A3, Mitsubishi Galant Fortis, Honda Civic, and Nissan Tiida.

What we like about the 2018 Subaru Impreza

Quite a comfortable cabin

Standard all-wheel drive delivers agile handling

Highly rated safety features

What we don’t

Transmission is very loud under heavy loads

Lower interior quality compared to its competitors

Low ground clearance

Conclusion

The 2018 Subaru Impreza comes with two body designs, the hatchback and the sedan so preferences of different consumers more especially Impreza enthusiasts have been catered for. The all-wheel-drive system incorporated in this car makes it appeal to many drivers who love traversing uneven road surfaces. Individuals on a tight budget may not be in a position to own this car due to its exorbitant price as well as service and maintenance.