Fuel economy face-off: subaru impreza vs sport – who reigns supreme?
What To Know
- The Sport takes the Impreza’s design to the next level with a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts, and a unique rear diffuser.
- However, if you crave more performance, a more engaging driving experience, and a sportier look, the Sport is the better option.
- Both the Impreza and Sport come standard with all-wheel drive, but the Impreza may have a slight advantage in terms of ground clearance for off-road adventures.
For automotive enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance and practicality, the Subaru Impreza and Sport models stand out as compelling options. Both vehicles offer a unique set of strengths and compromises, making the choice between them a matter of individual priorities. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the key differences between the Subaru Impreza vs. Sport, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Handling
Impreza: The Impreza boasts a 2.0-liter flat-four engine that delivers 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), it provides smooth and responsive acceleration. The Impreza’s all-wheel drive system ensures excellent traction in all conditions.
Sport: The Sport steps up to a 2.5-liter flat-four engine with 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Mated to a six-speed manual or CVT, it offers more spirited performance and a more engaging driving experience.
Interior and Features
Impreza: The Impreza’s cabin is spacious and well-equipped, with comfortable seating and a user-friendly infotainment system. Standard features include an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and a rearview camera.
Sport: The Sport’s interior is more focused on performance, with supportive sports seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also comes with upgraded interior materials and exclusive features like a sunroof and blind-spot monitoring.
Exterior Design
Impreza: The Impreza’s exterior is sleek and modern, with a distinctive grille and sharp lines. It features LED headlights, 17-inch alloy wheels, and a rear spoiler that adds a touch of sportiness.
Sport: The Sport takes the Impreza’s design to the next level with a more aggressive front fascia, side skirts, and a unique rear diffuser. It also rides on larger 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a more imposing stance.
Safety and Reliability
Impreza: The Impreza has earned top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.
Sport: The Sport matches the Impreza’s safety ratings and features. However, its more powerful engine and performance-oriented suspension may slightly compromise its overall reliability compared to the Impreza.
Fuel Economy and Emissions
Impreza: The Impreza with CVT achieves an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission model offers slightly lower fuel economy at 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
Sport: The Sport with CVT delivers 26 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The manual transmission model sees a drop to 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
Price and Value
Impreza: The Subaru Impreza starts at around $19,000 for the base model. The top-of-the-line Limited trim level can reach up to $27,000.
Sport: The Subaru Sport has a higher starting price of around $25,000. The range-topping Limited trim can cost up to $32,000.
The Verdict: Which One is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Subaru Impreza vs. Sport depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize fuel economy, practicality, and a value-oriented package, the Impreza is an excellent choice. However, if you crave more performance, a more engaging driving experience, and a sportier look, the Sport is the better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which model is faster, the Impreza or the Sport?
A: The Sport is faster, with its 2.5-liter engine producing more horsepower and torque than the Impreza’s 2.0-liter engine.
Q: Is the Impreza more fuel-efficient than the Sport?
A: Yes, the Impreza is more fuel-efficient than the Sport, especially with the CVT transmission.
Q: Which model has a more spacious interior?
A: Both the Impreza and Sport offer similar interior space, with ample room for passengers and cargo.
Q: Is the Sport more expensive than the Impreza?
A: Yes, the Sport has a higher starting price and can be more expensive than the Impreza, especially in higher trim levels.
Q: Which model is better for off-roading?
A: Both the Impreza and Sport come standard with all-wheel drive, but the Impreza may have a slight advantage in terms of ground clearance for off-road adventures.