Hey guys! Are you looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and fun-to-drive compact car? Then buckle up, because we're about to take a detailed look at the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium. This car isn't just about getting from point A to point B; it's about enjoying the journey, no matter the weather. We'll explore everything from its performance and features to its safety and overall value. Let's dive in!

Performance and Handling: Ready for Anything

When it comes to the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium's performance, the heart of the beast is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that churns out a respectable 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Now, I know what you might be thinking: "Is that enough power?" Well, while it might not win any drag races, it provides more than adequate pep for daily driving and merging onto highways. The real magic, though, lies in Subaru's legendary symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which comes standard on every Impreza. This system provides exceptional grip and stability in all kinds of weather conditions, from rain and snow to gravel and dirt. Seriously, this car feels planted and confident, no matter what Mother Nature throws your way. The Impreza Premium also boasts a well-tuned suspension that strikes a nice balance between comfort and handling. It soaks up bumps and potholes with ease, while still providing enough feedback to keep you engaged in the driving experience. Steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and navigate winding roads. You can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). While the manual is more engaging for driving enthusiasts, the CVT offers smoother acceleration and better fuel economy. Speaking of fuel economy, the Impreza Premium with the CVT gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, which is excellent for an all-wheel-drive vehicle. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium offers a compelling blend of performance, handling, and fuel efficiency. Its standard all-wheel-drive system and comfortable ride make it a great choice for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather or who simply want a more confident and capable driving experience.

Interior and Features: Comfort and Convenience

Stepping inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium, you'll find a cabin that prioritizes comfort and convenience. While it might not be the most luxurious interior in its class, it's well-built and features plenty of soft-touch materials. The seats are supportive and comfortable, even on long drives, and there's ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Impreza Premium comes standard with a host of features that enhance the driving experience. These include a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, automatic climate control, and heated front seats. The infotainment system is easy to use and responsive, and the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The heated front seats are a welcome addition on cold mornings, and the automatic climate control keeps the cabin comfortable no matter the weather outside. In terms of cargo space, the Impreza Premium offers a generous 12.3 cubic feet of space in the trunk, which is plenty for groceries, luggage, or sporting equipment. The rear seats also fold down in a 60/40 split, allowing you to expand the cargo area even further. One of the standout features of the Impreza Premium is its quiet cabin. Road noise and wind noise are well-suppressed, making it easy to have conversations or listen to music while on the road. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium offers a comfortable and well-equipped interior that's perfect for daily commutes and long road trips. Its user-friendly technology, spacious cabin, and quiet ride make it a standout in its class. Subaru really nailed the balance between practicality and comfort in this model.

Safety and Reliability: Peace of Mind

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium truly shines. It has earned top marks from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), making it one of the safest cars in its class. The Impreza Premium comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. It also offers Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist system as an option, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features use cameras and sensors to monitor the road ahead and can help prevent accidents. The adaptive cruise control maintains a set distance from the car in front of you, while the lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. The automatic emergency braking system can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent collision. In addition to its impressive safety ratings and advanced safety features, the Impreza Premium also boasts a reputation for reliability. Subaru has a long history of building durable and dependable vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. According to Consumer Reports, the Impreza has above-average reliability ratings, meaning that it's less likely to experience problems than other cars in its class. This can give you peace of mind knowing that you're buying a car that will last for years to come. Regular maintenance is key to keeping any car running smoothly, and the Impreza is no different. Be sure to follow the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual, and take your car to a qualified mechanic for any repairs. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium offers exceptional safety and reliability. Its top safety ratings, advanced safety features, and reputation for dependability make it a great choice for drivers who prioritize safety and peace of mind.

Trim Levels and Options: Finding the Right Fit

The 2018 Subaru Impreza comes in several trim levels, each offering a different set of features and options. The base model is the Impreza 2.0i, which comes standard with features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and Bluetooth connectivity. The next step up is the Impreza Premium, which adds features like a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, heated front seats, and alloy wheels. The Impreza Sport offers a more sporty appearance and handling, with features like a sport-tuned suspension, a rear spoiler, and unique interior and exterior trim. The top-of-the-line Impreza Limited comes with all the bells and whistles, including leather upholstery, a power driver's seat, and a premium audio system. When choosing the right trim level for you, it's important to consider your needs and budget. If you're looking for a basic and affordable car, the base model Impreza 2.0i might be a good choice. If you want more features and convenience, the Impreza Premium is a great value. If you're looking for a sporty driving experience, the Impreza Sport is the way to go. And if you want all the luxury and features you can get, the Impreza Limited is the ultimate choice. In addition to the different trim levels, the Impreza also offers a variety of optional features, such as the EyeSight driver-assist system, a sunroof, and a navigation system. These options allow you to customize your Impreza to your specific needs and preferences. Before you buy, be sure to research the different trim levels and options to find the right fit for you. Visit your local Subaru dealer to test drive the different models and see which one you like best. With so many choices available, you're sure to find an Impreza that's perfect for you.

Value and Conclusion: Is the Impreza Premium Right for You?

So, is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium a good value? In my opinion, the answer is a resounding yes. It offers a compelling blend of performance, features, safety, and reliability at a price that's hard to beat. The standard all-wheel-drive system is a major selling point, especially for drivers who live in areas with inclement weather. The comfortable interior, user-friendly technology, and quiet ride make it a great choice for daily commutes and long road trips. And the top safety ratings and reputation for reliability provide peace of mind. Of course, the Impreza Premium isn't perfect. Its engine isn't the most powerful in its class, and the CVT transmission can feel a bit sluggish at times. But overall, the Impreza Premium is a well-rounded and capable car that offers a lot of value for the money. If you're looking for a compact car that's safe, reliable, and fun to drive, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium should definitely be on your list. Before you make a decision, be sure to compare it to other cars in its class, such as the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Mazda3. Each of these cars has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it's important to find the one that best meets your needs. But if you're looking for a car that offers a unique combination of features and capabilities, the Impreza Premium is definitely worth a look. Ultimately, the best way to decide if the Impreza Premium is right for you is to take it for a test drive. Get behind the wheel and experience the car for yourself. See how it handles, how comfortable it is, and how well it meets your needs. If you do, I think you'll be impressed. Thanks for reading, and happy car shopping!