MotorMouths

The Impreza is the least expensive Subaru, and one of the least expensive four-wheel-drive cars you can buy. A redesign for 2012 has made it a much stronger offering. It’s a very livable, all-wheel-drive sedan for only $20,000.

Subaru’s more mainstream Impreza corrects nearly all of the outgoing model’s deficits, but it doesn’t water down the compact lineup’s unique flavor. We could nitpick here and there, but the Impreza has finally become an absolute segment standout.

The Impreza is a year-round, do-everything runabout that seamlessly blends practicality and the fun of driving.

The 2012 Subaru Impreza is lighter than its predecessor. It’s better looking and its fuel economy is vastly improved. It’s also faster and the exhaust pipe emits only ice cream.

The 2012 Impreza 2.0i’s appearance has greatly improved, and to a lesser degree driving performance. But when you factor in the timely boost in economy, restrained pricing, and standard all-wheel drive, it comes mighty close to being the perfect family-friendly compact car.

The Impreza is a well-made vehicle and offers a lot for the money, especially considering the standard all-wheel drive. With the new generation’s $17,495 starting price identical to that from 2011, it’s hard to complain about the updated Impreza, and we doubt anyone will.

Subaru has addressed some basics of the Impreza’s fuel economy and interior volume that might have previously led mom and dad into the arms of another automaker. And they get the all-wheel drive.

The 2012 Subaru Impreza gets a new 2.0-liter Boxer engine, design improvements and upgraded interior materials. It is also a good highway cruiser and adept at local roads, too.

This Impreza is absolutely good enough to compete in this class. Of course, it’s up against equally good cars, so as in years past, AWD is the main reason you’d buy it.

No matter what the weather does, no matter what the idiot drivers in front of you do, the Impreza has a better chance than most cars of getting you safely to your destination. And the new attention to accommodations and styling means you no longer have to trade convenience and curb appeal for safety.

My first thought when I considered the 2012 Subaru Impreza’s standard all-wheel drive and this model’s $23K price tag was, why wouldn’t you buy one? But the cabin tech is not the most advanced, feeling like a slapdash set of different systems.

The all-new 2012 Subaru Impreza is a value leader. It is more comfortable than expected and more glamorous by far, yet it still embodies all of the admired practicality that has made Subaru among the most owner-loyal brands anywhere.