Ride & Handling

There's no question you're going to feel the road when driving the Impreza 2.5GT, but while the sport suspension always lets you know when you've driven over a large bump in the road, the impact from those bumps and holes isn't jarring to occupants. The shocks do a nice job absorbing impacts, and the car remains poised when driving on undulating roads. Body roll isn't a problem when pushing the car hard through a corner, as the 2.5GT feels nicely planted.

The 2.5GT's steering is worth highlighting, too, as it's precise. It takes some effort to turn the wheel, as there isn't a lot of power assistance, but that pays off when driving on the highway. The car doesn't feel twitchy or skittish in those circumstances, but rather locked-in and ready to track wherever you point it. It doesn't hurt that the steering wheel feels great in your hands, too, thanks to its thick leather-wrapped rim, which is standard.

    See also:

    Driving tips
    Do not drive with your foot resting on the clutch pedal and do not use the clutch to hold your vehicle at a standstill on an upgrade. Either of those actions may cause clutch damage. Do not drive wit ...

    U.S.-spec. models
    1) Trip meter A/B selection and trip meter reset knob (page 3-6) 2) Tachometer (page 3-7) 3) Trip meter and odometer (page 3-6) 4) Speedometer (page 3-6) 5) Multi function display switching knob ...

    Quick With the Six
    The Outback's base engine — a 170-horsepower four-cylinder — delivers leisurely acceleration, in large part because of a continuously variable automatic transmission that's in no hurry to respond ...