Model tested: Subaru Impreza 2.5 WRX STI Type UK
Price: £24,995
Date tested: April 2008
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 82%
The Impreza has been the performance car of a generation. But the latest Impreza has evolved from a three-box saloon/estate into a hatchback – putting it up against some very impressive opposition.

1. Looks
Beefed-up wheelarches hide a widened track for greater stability in the STI, four exhausts poke out the back, and there's the trademark bonnet scoop to force air into the engine.
8/10

2. Looks inside
The interior is far from radical, but it has some flair, despite using hard plastics. Like many serious sub-£40,000 performance cars, it's function over form. The leather and alcantara seats are supportive while the steering wheel and gearknob are pleasantly chunky.
7/10

3. Practicality
Those lugging large loads will miss the old estate; the hatch has a 301-litre boot, due to a shallow boot floor because of the four-wheel drive. The cabin offers a few storage spaces though.
7/10

4. Ride and Handling
The Impreza has long been one of the fastest ways to get from A to B; the new model is no different. It features four-wheel drive and a Driver's Control Centre Differential to distribute the power optimally, translating into an astonishing level of grip.
10/10

5. Performance
The WRX STI has a revised version of its predecessor's 2.5-litre turbocharged engine which produces 294bhp and 300lb/ft of torque to give a top speed of 155mph and a 0-60mph time of 4.8 seconds.
10/10

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6. Running Costs
Considering the performance, the Impreza is a bargain at £24,995. But insurance is group 19, while CO2 emissions of 243g/km place it in tax band G, costing £400 a year. The STI officially drinks a gallon of super unleaded every 27.4 miles – hard-driven cars will be much thirstier.
7/10

7. Reliability
Subaru has built up a good reputation for building tough cars. There shouldn't be any real concerns here, although used buyers should check carefully for crash damage.
9/10

8. Safety
The Impreza hasn't been crash tested by EuroNCAP yet, but standard equipment includes front, side and curtain airbags, electronic brake force distribution and chunky Brembo brakes.
8/10

9. Equipment
The WRX STI isn't short on equipment, with cruise control, 17-inch alloys, bright HID headlamps, leather/alcantara seats, climate control and a 6-CD in-dash autochanger all standard.
8/10

10. X-Factor
Few cars offer as much performance for as little money. Subaru may have placed the Impreza straight in the firing line of other talented hot hatches, but the Scooby offers pace and grip the others can't dream of.
8/10