Other Subaru Impreza (1993 - 2001) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    What are you likely to buy next?

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £3,400

    When did you buy the car?

    January 2007

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    What was the dealer like?

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Amazingly quick - 0-60 in about 5.8 seconds. The way the power is delivered, once above 3500rpm, is addictive and licence-threatening. I have previously driven a Skyline GTS-T (which felt a bit quicker but might have been chipped) and a Honda Integra Type R (slower). I have been surprised at how good the handling is - very little body roll and excellent grip. Steering is accurate but could be quicker with more feel. My car has 17 inch alloys from the later version, and the brakes have been uprated with EBC Competition discs and pads - a worthwhile upgrade. I'm not too sure about the image - it's clear that other road users give you a lot of respect, but this might not be the car for you if you are after a bit more of a refined image!

    What's it like to park?

  • Living with it

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Attempted theft in first week of ownership - passenger door handle ripped off - insurance job - door needs replacing. Luckily I have a Cobra Thatcham 1 alarm and immobiliser. Make sure you get adequate security - thieves seem to go a bit insane about these cars.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?