Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium, a car that often flies under the radar but definitely deserves a closer look. If you're in the market for a reliable, practical, and surprisingly fun-to-drive compact car, the Impreza Premium might just be the ticket. We'll cover everything from its performance and features to its interior comfort and overall value. So, buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium stands out in the crowded compact car segment with its standard all-wheel drive (AWD), a feature that's typically an upgrade or not even available on many competitors. This alone makes it a compelling option for those living in areas with inclement weather. But there's more to the Impreza Premium than just AWD. It offers a comfortable ride, a user-friendly infotainment system, and a range of features that enhance both convenience and safety. For the 2018 model year, the Impreza received high marks for its fuel efficiency, especially considering its standard AWD system. It's available as both a sedan and a hatchback, catering to different needs and preferences. The "Premium" trim level adds several desirable features over the base model, making it a sweet spot in the Impreza lineup. Think of it as the perfect blend of affordability and features. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides adequate power for daily driving. While it's not going to win any drag races, it's peppy enough for city streets and comfortable on the highway. The Impreza Premium also boasts Subaru's reputation for reliability and safety, making it a smart choice for those looking for a long-term investment. Plus, with its spacious interior and ample cargo space (especially in the hatchback version), it's a practical option for families and individuals alike. So, if you're searching for a compact car that offers all-weather capability, a comfortable ride, and a host of features, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium should definitely be on your list.

Performance and Handling

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium's performance is characterized by its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which delivers 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not sound particularly impressive, they provide adequate power for everyday driving situations. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is the more popular choice, and it's designed to maximize fuel efficiency. However, some drivers find that it can drone a bit under hard acceleration. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is standard on all Impreza models, including the Premium trim. This system provides excellent traction and stability in a variety of weather conditions, making the Impreza a confident performer in snow, rain, and even on gravel roads. The handling of the Impreza Premium is generally considered to be good. The steering is responsive and the car feels planted on the road. It's not a sports car by any means, but it's fun to drive and offers a good balance between comfort and agility. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and comfortable ride. One of the standout features of the Impreza is its ability to inspire confidence behind the wheel. The combination of all-wheel drive, responsive steering, and a well-tuned suspension makes it a joy to drive, even in challenging conditions. While the engine could use a bit more power, especially for passing maneuvers on the highway, it's still a capable performer in most situations. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium offers a well-rounded driving experience that prioritizes safety, stability, and comfort.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. The cabin is made with quality materials, giving it a more upscale feel than some of its competitors. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making it a great car for long road trips. The Premium trim comes with several upgrades over the base model, including heated front seats, which are a welcome addition on cold mornings. The infotainment system in the Impreza Premium is user-friendly and easy to navigate. It features a 6.5-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, so you can make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly. Other notable features of the Impreza Premium include a rearview camera, automatic headlights, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. These features add to the convenience and comfort of the car. The interior of the Impreza is also surprisingly spacious, with plenty of room for both front and rear passengers. The hatchback version offers even more cargo space, making it a practical choice for those who need to haul gear or groceries. One of the things that sets the Impreza apart from its competitors is its focus on safety. All Impreza models come standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system. This system includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and keep you and your passengers safe on the road. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium is a comfortable, well-equipped, and safe place to spend time. It offers a good balance of features, comfort, and technology, making it a great choice for those looking for a practical and reliable compact car.

Fuel Economy and Safety

When it comes to fuel economy, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium delivers respectable numbers, especially considering its standard all-wheel-drive system. According to the EPA, the Impreza Premium with the CVT transmission gets an estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. These figures are competitive with other compact cars in its class, and they make the Impreza a relatively fuel-efficient choice for daily commuting and road trips. Of course, actual fuel economy may vary depending on driving conditions and habits. However, the Impreza's efficient engine and CVT transmission help to maximize fuel efficiency in a variety of situations. Safety is another area where the Impreza Premium excels. The car has earned top marks in government and independent crash tests, thanks to its robust construction and advanced safety features. The Impreza comes standard with a suite of airbags, antilock brakes, and stability control. It also offers Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features help to prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision. In addition to its crash-test performance and safety features, the Impreza also offers good visibility and a comfortable driving position, which can help to reduce driver fatigue and improve overall safety. Subaru has a long-standing reputation for building safe and reliable vehicles, and the Impreza Premium is no exception. It's a car that you can trust to protect you and your passengers in the event of an accident. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium offers a compelling combination of fuel economy and safety. It's a car that's both efficient to operate and safe to drive, making it a smart choice for those who prioritize these factors.

Common Problems and Reliability

Like any car, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium has its share of potential problems. However, overall, it's considered to be a reliable vehicle. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include problems with the infotainment system, such as freezing or crashing. Others have reported issues with the CVT transmission, such as hesitation or jerky shifting. However, these problems are not widespread and most owners have not experienced any major issues with their Impreza. Subaru has a good reputation for reliability, and the Impreza is generally considered to be a dependable car. However, it's always a good idea to do your research and be aware of potential problems before you buy any used car. One way to mitigate the risk of encountering problems is to buy a certified pre-owned Impreza from a reputable dealer. These cars have been inspected and reconditioned, and they typically come with a warranty that covers any major repairs. Another way to ensure reliability is to follow the recommended maintenance schedule and have your Impreza serviced by a qualified mechanic. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and other maintenance tasks can help to prevent problems and keep your Impreza running smoothly for years to come. Despite the potential for some minor issues, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium is generally considered to be a reliable and dependable car. It's a car that you can count on to get you where you need to go, without breaking down or requiring expensive repairs. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium is a solid and reliable choice for a compact car. While it's not perfect, it offers a good balance of features, performance, and reliability.

Value and Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium? Well, it's a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, practical, and safe compact car. The standard all-wheel drive is a huge selling point, especially if you live in an area with snow or rain. The Impreza Premium offers a good balance of features, comfort, and fuel economy, making it a great value for the money. While it's not the most exciting car to drive, it's certainly not boring. The handling is responsive and the ride is comfortable, making it a joy to drive on a daily basis. The interior is well-designed and functional, with plenty of room for passengers and cargo. The infotainment system is easy to use and offers all the features you need to stay connected on the road. Of course, the Impreza Premium is not without its flaws. The engine could use a bit more power, and the CVT transmission can be a bit noisy at times. However, these are minor complaints compared to the overall value and reliability of the car. If you're in the market for a compact car, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium should definitely be on your list. It's a car that offers a lot of value for the money, and it's sure to provide you with years of reliable service. Plus, with its standard all-wheel drive, you can be confident that you'll be able to handle any weather conditions that come your way. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium is a great choice for anyone looking for a practical, reliable, and safe compact car. It's a car that you can count on to get you where you need to go, without breaking the bank.