What will your next car be?

[kimona]

Drove a 2018 Subaru Impreza hatchback this weekend. First time I've ever driven a Subaru. Glad I did. Awesome car in every way!

[Kalispel]

Originally Posted by kimona

Drove a 2018 Subaru Impreza hatchback this weekend. First time I've ever driven a Subaru. Glad I did. Awesome car in every way!

All the auto reviews that I have seen seem to agree with you. I'm fairly neutral on the styling of the Impreza, and I'm not sure what's up with that 90's retro wing spoiler on the sedan, lol. Still, if I didn't select a Toyota made vehicle for purchase, I would likely elect a Subaru instead - especially since Honda has gone down the horrible styling and quality-control route that they have. For some reason, the Crosstrek does seem to appeal to me, even though I'm not 'an SUV guy'.

I'm seriously thinking about moving up my next car purchase to Winter 2018. Waiting until the end of 2018 will allow me to see what changes (if any) are in store for the Toyota iM, and then likely select a 2018 or 2019 model depending on styling/feature differences - plus the end of year discounted pricing to clean out inventory is always nice. If I selected a 2018 iM, it would likely be in Barcelona Red Metallic, since a Dark/Falcon grey metallic isn't available. The piano black trim really pops with that deeper burgundy-red color, and the taillights blend nicely with it. I find it really odd that it is the least popular color on the iM. The runner-up, if I changed my mind on the iM for some reason, would probably be a 2018/2019 Black (stealth-styling ) Yaris SE - which I would have dealership swap wheels with my 2015 SE as conditions of the purchase, and transfer over the TRD rear sway bar also. We will see.

[kimona]

Originally Posted by Kalispel

All the auto reviews that I have seen seem to agree with you. I'm fairly neutral on the styling of the Impreza, and I'm not sure what's up with that 90's retro wing spoiler on the sedan, lol. Still, if I didn't select a Toyota made vehicle for purchase, I would likely elect a Subaru instead - especially since Honda has gone down the horrible styling and quality-control route that they have. For some reason, the Crosstrek does seem to appeal to me, even though I'm not 'an SUV guy'.

Yes, the new Impreza gets great reviews. I agree about Subaru styling... always thought it kind of ho-hum. But, the redesigned Impreza is actually very appealing IMHO.

The new sheet metal design makes sense form any angle. The front grille, headlights, and fog lights, though conservative, are very handsome. And, the tail light configuration is clean and nicely integrated into the body.

I'm really impressed with the interior design, roominess, and the quality and feel of the materials. Plus, the front seats are among the most comfortable I've ever experienced; firm and supportive, with excellent lumbar... even in base trim.

The drive put all other small hatchbacks to shame; quick, responsive, confident, road hugging, and surprisingly quiet. Seating position, steering wheel adjustment, and visibility are excellent.

Needless to say, I loved this car!

These are the small hatchbacks I've driven recently:
Honda Civic - YUK (I hated this car)
Toyota iM - Fair overall (too many things I didn't like)
Mazda 3 - Pretty darn good (but cramped/unattractive/cheap interior and noisy)
Subaru Impreza - Winner by a mile (couldn't find anything to complain about)

If you get a chance, stop by a Subaru dealership and check one out. Test drive if you have the time. I'd be interested how you feel about the car after a close inspection and drive.

BTW, there is a promotion that pops up when you visit a Subaru dealership's website: $25 to test drive. When I got home, there was a virtual Visa card sent by email.