Fuel economy wars: ford fiesta vs subaru impreza battle for mileage supremacy

The automotive landscape is teeming with a plethora of compact cars vying for the attention of discerning drivers. Among these contenders, the Ford Fiesta and Subaru Impreza stand out as two formidable options that have consistently captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. This comprehensive comparison delves into the depths of these two vehicles, scrutinizing their performance, features, and overall value to determine which one emerges victorious in this epic battle.

Performance

Engine and Power

The Ford Fiesta boasts a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that generates 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque. The Subaru Impreza, on the other hand, offers a more potent 2.0-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration and Top Speed

The Impreza’s superior horsepower and torque translate into a faster acceleration time, reaching 60 mph in approximately 8.5 seconds, compared to the Fiesta’s 9.5 seconds. However, the Fiesta’s lower weight gives it a slight edge in top speed, with a maximum of 118 mph versus the Impreza’s 115 mph.

Fuel Economy

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Fiesta takes the lead with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway. The Impreza, with its larger engine and all-wheel drive system, trails slightly behind with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Handling and Safety

Handling

The Fiesta is renowned for its agile handling and responsive steering, making it a joy to navigate through urban environments and winding roads. The Impreza, however, excels in handling on slippery or uneven surfaces, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive system.

Safety

Both the Fiesta and Impreza have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Fiesta earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, while the Impreza received a Top Safety Pick+ designation from IIHS.

Features and Comfort

Interior Space and Comfort

The Impreza offers a more spacious interior than the Fiesta, providing ample legroom and headroom for both front and rear passengers. Both vehicles feature comfortable seats and a user-friendly infotainment system.

Technology and Connectivity

The Fiesta comes standard with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The Impreza offers a larger 8-inch touchscreen with similar connectivity features, as well as an optional navigation system.

Cargo Space

The Impreza’s hatchback design provides a generous 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up, expandable to 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down. The Fiesta’s sedan configuration offers a more modest 12.9 cubic feet of trunk space.

Value and Pricing

Starting Price

The Ford Fiesta has a lower starting price than the Subaru Impreza, with an MSRP of $14,000 compared to the Impreza’s $18,895.

Standard Features

The Fiesta’s base model comes with a host of standard features, including air conditioning, power windows, and a rearview camera. The Impreza offers a more generous array of standard features, such as all-wheel drive, heated front seats, and a sunroof.

Warranty

Both the Fiesta and Impreza come with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Ford Fiesta and Subaru Impreza ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize affordability, fuel efficiency, and agile handling, the Fiesta is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you value spaciousness, all-wheel drive, and a higher level of standard features, the Impreza is the superior option.

Beyond the Basics: Uncovering Hidden Differences

Engine Design

The Fiesta’s inline-four engine is a compact and lightweight design, while the Impreza’s boxer engine is horizontally opposed, resulting in a lower center of gravity and improved handling.

Drivetrain Options

The Fiesta is available with either a five-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission. The Impreza offers a six-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Off-Road Capability

The Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive system provides superior traction in inclement weather and light off-roading conditions, while the Fiesta is strictly a front-wheel drive vehicle.

Customization Options

Both the Fiesta and Impreza offer a range of customization options, including different wheel designs, exterior colors, and interior trim levels.

Key Points: The Verdict

After a thorough examination of both vehicles, the Subaru Impreza emerges as the superior choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded compact car that combines performance, practicality, and value. Its spacious interior, all-wheel drive system, and generous standard features make it an ideal choice for everyday commuting, family adventures, and occasional off-road excursions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which car has a more powerful engine?

A: The Subaru Impreza has a more powerful engine, with 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque compared to the Fiesta’s 120 horsepower and 112 lb-ft of torque.

Q: Is the Ford Fiesta more fuel-efficient than the Subaru Impreza?

A: Yes, the Ford Fiesta is more fuel-efficient than the Subaru Impreza, with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of up to 33 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway compared to the Impreza’s 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway.

Q: Which car has a larger cargo space?

A: The Subaru Impreza has a larger cargo space than the Ford Fiesta, with 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats up and 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down compared to the Fiesta’s 12.9 cubic feet of trunk space.