2010 Subaru Impreza review

Even though the Impreza sedan and hatchback were redesigned last year, Subaru is still working on improving its compact car. For 2009, there's a new 2.5GT trim level of the Impreza, and it uses the 224-horsepower engine that used to power the performance-oriented WRX.

That car has more power this year — as 224 hp is apparently no longer enough for a compact performance car — but fortunately Subaru didn't do away with the horizontally opposed turbocharged four-cylinder that I thoroughly enjoyed in the 2008 WRX. In the new 2.5GT, it's teamed with a four-speed automatic transmission (see a side-by-side comparison with the 2008 Impreza).

I tested the new 2009 Impreza 2.5GT hatchback and came away impressed with what Subaru has accomplished with this car. If you're a hatchback enthusiast who likes a healthy dose of turbocharged performance now and then, the 2.5GT is a willing participant when you're in the mood for some sporty driving.

However, the 2.5GT's starting price is high, and if you've been inside competitors like the Volkswagen GTI, the Impreza might let you down somewhat in terms of its interior quality.

See also:

Parking on a grade
Always block the wheels under both vehicle and trailer when parking. Apply the parking brake. You should not park on a hill or slope. But if parking on a hill or slope cannot be avoided, you shoul ...

Rear passenger cup holder (if equipped)
Rear passenger cup holder (if equipped) A dual cup holder is located on the rear seat center table. ...

Use of engine braking
Remember to make use of engine braking in addition to foot braking. When descending a grade, if only the foot brake is used, the brakes may start working improperly because of brake fluid overheat ...