2021 Subaru Impreza

Pros: Standard (and affordable) all-wheel drive; wide array of available safety features; simple-to-use controls

Cons: Acceleration is a bit slow from a stop; no optional engine available

CG Says: The 2021 Subaru Impreza adds an SI-DRIVE feature that can switch between Normal and Sport modes of engine performance to the midrange Premium model. Otherwise, Impreza is little changed.

Impreza offers 4-door hatchback and sedan bodystyles and all-wheel drive—an unusual feature in the compact-car class—is standard. The sole engine is a 152-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual or continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).

Available convenience features include keyless entry and starting and roof rails. Available safety features include autonomous emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot alert, rear-cross-traffic alert, and adaptive fog lights that turn with the steering wheel.

Subaru’s all-wheel-drive system has long been a key Impreza selling point, but the redesign for 2017 brought plenty of new strengths that made this compact contender a more compelling choice. The Impreza’s standout features include excellent visibility, a sensible control layout, and a full range of up-to-date safety and convenience features. Interior room, fuel economy and overall driving dynamics are also class competitive.

The Impreza is well worth a look—even if you don’t need all-wheel drive.