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Impreza base vs. sport – a budget-friendly powerhouse or sporty upgrade?

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to...

What To Know

  • According to the EPA, the Sport model has an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the Base model has an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.
  • Whether you opt for the Subaru Impreza Base or Sport model, you’ll get a reliable and versatile compact car that offers a blend of performance, practicality, and all-wheel drive capability.
  • The Sport model has a more aggressive front fascia, larger grille, fog lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Base model has a more subdued appearance with 16-inch steel wheels.

The Subaru Impreza is a compact car that has been a popular choice for drivers who seek a combination of practicality, performance, and all-wheel drive capability. Offered in two primary trim levels, Base and Sport, the Impreza presents a distinct set of features and capabilities that cater to different driving preferences and budgets. This blog post will delve into the key differences between the Subaru Impreza Base and Sport models to help you make an informed decision when selecting the best Impreza for your needs.

Performance and Handling:

The Subaru Impreza Sport offers a more spirited driving experience compared to the Base model. It features a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, while the Base model comes with a 1.8-liter engine that produces 145 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. The Sport model also benefits from a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances handling and cornering capabilities.

Exterior Styling:

The Impreza Sport distinguishes itself with a more aggressive exterior design. It features a sportier front fascia with a larger grille and fog lights, as well as 18-inch alloy wheels. In contrast, the Base model has a more subdued appearance with a smaller grille and 16-inch steel wheels.

Interior Features:

Inside, the Impreza Sport offers a more premium and comfortable cabin. It comes with upgraded seats featuring bolsters for improved lateral support, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control. The Base model, on the other hand, has cloth seats and manual climate control.

Technology and Safety:

Both the Impreza Base and Sport models come well-equipped with advanced technology and safety features. They include a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver-assist technologies such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking.

Fuel Economy:

Despite its increased performance, the Impreza Sport offers comparable fuel economy to the Base model. According to the EPA, the Sport model has an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the Base model has an estimated 29 mpg in the city and 37 mpg on the highway.

Price and Value:

The Subaru Impreza Base model has a starting price of around $20,000, while the Sport model starts at around $23,000. The price difference reflects the additional features and performance enhancements offered by the Sport model. However, both models provide excellent value for their respective price points.

Which Impreza is Right for You?

The choice between the Subaru Impreza Base and Sport models ultimately depends on your individual preferences and driving needs. If you prioritize practicality, fuel economy, and a more affordable price, the Base model is an excellent choice. However, if you seek a more engaging driving experience, enhanced exterior styling, and a more premium cabin, the Sport model is worth considering.

Summary:

Whether you opt for the Subaru Impreza Base or Sport model, you’ll get a reliable and versatile compact car that offers a blend of performance, practicality, and all-wheel drive capability. By carefully considering the key differences highlighted in this blog post, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your driving style and budget.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: What are the key performance differences between the Impreza Base and Sport models?
A: The Sport model features a more powerful engine and a sport-tuned suspension for enhanced handling and cornering.

Q: How does the exterior styling differ between the Base and Sport models?
A: The Sport model has a more aggressive front fascia, larger grille, fog lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels, while the Base model has a more subdued appearance with 16-inch steel wheels.

Q: What are the major interior upgrades in the Impreza Sport model?
A: The Sport model offers upgraded seats with bolsters, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and automatic climate control, while the Base model has cloth seats and manual climate control.

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Mike Sullivan

Mike has spent over 15 years working in the automotive industry and is a lifelong Ford truck guy. He currently drives a 2018 Ford F-150 Lariat that he enjoys customizing on the weekends. As editor of wheelsgeeks.com, Mike focuses on sharing his passion for Blue Oval vehicles through reviews, how-to guides and industry news updates. When he's not writing about Ford, you can find Mike cheering on his favorite NFL team at the local pub on game days.
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