2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan Pros vs Cons
The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan is a carryover coming from the 2015 model year with just a couple of small tweaks here and there. Among the notable additions is that the infotainment system has received Subaru Starlink Cloud additional applications in all the models. Other new features include the Starlink safety and security services specifically for the Impreza Limited trims.
For those considering a compact car for all-weather as an alternative to the Nissan Sentra, Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, the 2016 Subaru Impreza deserves a closer look.
Ten Reasons You May Like the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan – The Pros
1) Powertrains and Performance
The new 2016 Subaru comes with a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that has a horsepower output of 148 and some 145 pound-feet of torque.
- Estimates from EPA point at excellent fuel economy that comes with the manual transmission standing at 28 mpg combined (34 highway/25 city).
- According to reviewers, these numbers are competitive for the class, and for an AWD remarkably high.
2) Handling and Braking
Auto reviewers point out that the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan has a responsive feel around corners.
- Also, they appreciate the strong brakes, accurate steering, and smooth ride, especially when you are using the 17-inch tires and wheels.
- The ride is compliant and smooth.
- Even when you drive over rough pavement, it feels substantial and well-built.
When you are on the road, this Subaru has excellent feedback from the electric-assist power steering, is predictable, surprisingly responsive, and gives a controlled feel.
3) Impreza Cabin/Interior
The interior of the 2016 Subaru Impreza has user-friendly controls and high-quality materials, according to auto critics. Reviewers think buyers are going to like the simple design of the cabin.
- Build quality and materials are quite decent for this car segment.
- It is highlighted by tight panel gaps and soft-touch materials.
- The cabin materials impress, as they bring a level of consistency—rare in this vehicle class.
4) Interior Features
According to critics, most of the dashboard controls on the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan are easy to see, use and reach.
- They are logically placed and clearly marked.
- The controls have been mounted fairly high.
5) The Seating
The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan can seat 5. Auto writers indicate that it's easy for the driver to get to a comfortable position for driving.
Features of note include:
- Cloth upholstery comes standard.
- Heated front seats
- For long trips, front seats are comfortable.
- For this class, leg and headroom are above average.
- The rear seat is among the roomiest in this class, which makes this particular Subaru suitable for families.
Test drivers have commended the Subaru Impreza’s telescoping/tilt steering wheel.
6) Cargo Capacity
At 12 cubic feet cargo space is generous in the trunk. Test drivers say there are lots of small-item cabin storage spaces, better than found on average sedans.
- 2 cup-holders in the center console
- Bottle holders on all four doors
- In front of the shifter, a large open bin
- Behind the shifter, a bi-level bin
- Good-size glove-box
7) Safety Rating
One of the biggest advantages of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan is safety. For 2016, Subaru has integrated the Starlink Safety and Security system.
- The system includes among other features, automatic collision notification and stolen vehicle notification.
- The Subaru Impreza has passed all tests done by the IIHS even the extremely tricky small frontal overlap test.
- Trims levels equipped with the Eyesight System have been given Top Safety Pick Plus, the highest possible rating in the industry.
8) Cost Effective
Auto shoppers out for an all-weather compact vehicle that comes with impressive fuel economy and top safety credentials will find that all pointers lead to the 2016 Impreza.
- For the base 2016 Impreza trim, buyers will get it starting at about $19,000.
- Higher trims like the Sport Limited go for around $25,000.
9) Recalls and Reliability
The NHSTA has not released any recalls for the 2016 Subaru Impreza.
- Subaru has covered the Impreza with a limited 3-year plus 36,000-mile warranty.
- It has 5-year powertrain 60,000-mile warranty.
10) Driving Impressions
While the new Impreza may not immediately dazzle you with a catlike agility, when you press the gas pedal more aggressively, it will surprise you.
- It’s got secure handling
- Has confident braking
- Got precise steering
Reasons You May Not Like the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan – The Cons
1) Weak Acceleration
The four-cylinder 2016 Subaru Sedan engine may supply adequate acceleration when you are moving around town, but you're going to need to plan well ahead for your maneuvers when engaging in highway passing. Generally, this is among the slower cars in this small sedan class.
2) Handling
While the Impreza has been deemed highway compliant, on curvy roads it isn't all that exciting.
- Matters are not made any better by the CVT, which reviewers say tends to respond too eagerly to your throttling, unnecessarily increasing engine speed.
- The CVT somewhat amplifies the racket beneath your hood.
Reviewers have also complained that the engine could be quite noisy and feels a bit underpowered when you are on the highway.
3) Quality of Interior Materials/Features
Some reviewers have complained that both the optional and standard audio systems bring out sound that is of poor quality.
- Even by the modest standards of this class, the systems deliver rather disappointing sound output.
- The front-seat heaters buttons are hidden low beneath the armrest to the drivers side.
4) Limited Trunk Space
According to most automotive reviewers, the 2016 Subaru sedan’s 12 cubic feet of trunk space may only be described as being rather low for a sedan car.
How it stacks up to the competition:
The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan has been compared by auto journalists with the Mazda Mazda3 and the Honda Civic.
- At $18,295MSRP, the Impreza compares very favorably with the Honda Civic at$18,640, just slightly above the Mazda3 at $17,845
- Regarding Front Head Room and Front Leg Room, the Subaru beats both the Mazda and the Civic.
- At 14.5, the Impreza beats the Mazda (13.2) and the Honda (12.4) regarding Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx. (gal)
- The Subaru beats the two as it comes with Premium Sound System which they lack.
Conclusion
Probably, Subaru is best known as the auto company that manufactures AWD vehicles with a heavy appeal to off-road enthusiasts, campers, and skiers. But even if rough and wet weather conditions are not your favorite places, you still have lots of reasons why you may want to think of the new 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan.
The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sedan remains a solid option if you are looking for a solid family-friendly compact car that will maintain its handling composure in all manner of weather conditions.
