Faults:

Power steering hose leak. Took a month for a new one to arrive.

Front crank seal continuously pops out. I've replaced it twice, and got the dealership to do it once (middle of winter and no garage), where I was accused of not installing the seal properly (journeyman millwright, I've done hundreds of seals in every size and shape).

Gear grind when downshifting to 4th (been driving stick for 15 years, I know how to shift).

Never going back to that dealership again.

General Comments:

Pros:

Excellent handling, especially in the snow. All around fun to drive. Safe and practical. Somewhat easily accessible for repairs.

Cons:

High maintenance car. Spark plugs every 50k. Trans and diff oil is pricey and doesn't seem to last as long as it should. Most parts are pricey and you can only get them from dealerships.

Faults:

Annoying dash rattle since new... rattled all over the place. I took the car in 10-15 times to get it addressed. Eventually they were able to have Mercedes grade foam put in to help with the rattle. Still creaks... only when it's super cold, 35 degrees & below.

General Comments:

I was on the market for my 1st NEW car with a budget. I test drove over a dozen cars and finally settled with this great little Subaru. I do a lot of high driving, so gas mileage surprisingly is between 36-42 MPG (!) with 25-30 city. It does great in snow and has never let me down... After all, I talked this brand new car out the door for $15,490.00 so I can't complain.

I have upgraded the car with a nice sounding stereo, rims and tires, and tinted the windows... and I get compliments from almost everyone!... "That's a Subaru?... wow, it looks so sleek..."

This car isn't seriously quick and doesn't handles like it's on rails, but it does a great job from point A - Z. Next car will most definitely be a WRX!