Faults:

Clutch thrust bearing now noisy, gearbox bearings now noisy as well.

Petrol tank way too small, but space underneath is limited, and for a small 4x4 it's thirsty.

Sun visor gaps.

High load lip for an estate car.

Still an expensive car to run and tax.

General Comments:

Easy to drive, and easy to change the oil and oil filter.

Headlamp bulbs are a whole different matter. Not much legroom in the back, but it will do for short journeys.

Carpets are not very good; too thin.

Speakers made from rice paper.

Dead easy to get in and out of with the windows down.

Tyre wear OK; 2 on the front so far.

Very good traction; grippy in the wet.

Full sized spare wheel.

Faults:

Nothing has gone wrong with the car. I am disappointed with the quality of the audio system.

General Comments:

This car is a UK right-hand-drive Impreza fitted with a 160bhp quad-cam engine and electronic VVT. The chassis, body and interior are similar to the WRX.

The car drives absolutely great. Cornering is like its on rails. The engine is very smooth and will rev easily to 7000rpm.

Seat comfort is good. Steering, braking, clutch, gearshift are all excellent.

There is a little more tyre roar than I would like. I don't like the 'fish eye' ventilators on the dashboard. The boot (trunk) is plenty big enough.

Fuel economy is surprisingly good for a four-wheel drive car and even with hard driving I easily hit 30mpg. Insurance and repair costs are lower than for the turbo version, which was the main reason for buying this particular model.