2019 Subaru Impreza Sport Review: Is It Worth It?

So, you're eyeing the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport, huh? Good choice! This compact car has a lot to offer, but let's dive deep to see if it's really the right fit for you. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from performance and handling to interior comfort and tech features. By the end, you'll have a clear picture of whether this sporty Impreza deserves a spot in your garage. So buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

When it comes to the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport's performance, it's important to set your expectations. This isn't a WRX, so don't expect neck-snapping acceleration. The Impreza Sport is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While these numbers might not sound impressive on paper, they're adequate for daily driving and commuting. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which prioritizes fuel efficiency over sporty performance. However, the CVT does a decent job of mimicking gear changes, and it includes paddle shifters that allow you to take more control of the driving experience.

Handling is where the Impreza Sport truly shines. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system comes standard, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. Whether you're navigating snowy roads or tackling twisty mountain passes, the Impreza Sport feels confident and planted. The suspension is well-tuned, offering a comfortable ride without sacrificing agility. The steering is precise and responsive, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Overall, the Impreza Sport delivers a balanced and enjoyable driving experience, especially for those who value all-weather capability and confident handling.

For those who crave a more engaging driving experience, the manual transmission option might be worth considering. While it's not available on the Sport trim, it can be found on the base and Premium models. The manual transmission provides more direct control over the engine's power and allows you to extract more performance from the 2.0-liter engine. However, the CVT is the more popular choice, and it's hard to argue with its fuel efficiency. The Impreza Sport gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, which is quite respectable for an all-wheel-drive vehicle.

In summary, the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a competent and confident driving experience. While it's not the fastest car on the road, its all-wheel-drive system, balanced handling, and comfortable ride make it a great choice for daily driving and all-weather adventures. Just remember to manage your expectations when it comes to acceleration, and consider the manual transmission if you're looking for a more engaging driving experience.

Interior and Comfort: What's It Like Inside?

Let's talk about the inside of the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport. The interior is generally well-built with a focus on practicality and user-friendliness. The design is simple and straightforward, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The materials used are decent for the price point, although some may find them to be a bit basic compared to some competitors. However, the overall impression is one of durability and functionality, which is in line with Subaru's reputation.

The seats in the Impreza Sport are comfortable and supportive, making them suitable for long drives. The front seats offer ample headroom and legroom, even for taller drivers and passengers. The rear seats are a bit more cramped, but they're still adequate for adults on shorter trips. The Impreza Sport also boasts a surprisingly spacious cargo area, with 12.3 cubic feet of space in the trunk. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more room, making it easy to transport larger items.

One of the standout features of the Impreza Sport's interior is its infotainment system. The standard 6.5-inch touchscreen display is easy to use and responsive, and it comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. This allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation features. The optional 8-inch touchscreen display offers even more functionality, including a built-in navigation system and a more refined user interface. The Impreza Sport also comes with a range of other convenient features, such as automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

However, the interior isn't without its drawbacks. Some reviewers have criticized the Impreza Sport's lack of sound insulation, which can lead to a noisy cabin at highway speeds. The base audio system is also underwhelming, and upgrading to the optional Harman Kardon system is recommended for audiophiles. Additionally, some may find the interior design to be a bit too bland and utilitarian, lacking the style and flair of some competitors.

Overall, the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a comfortable and functional interior with a focus on practicality and user-friendliness. While it may not be the most luxurious or stylish interior in its class, it's well-built and offers a range of convenient features. The spacious cargo area and user-friendly infotainment system are definite highlights, making the Impreza Sport a practical choice for daily driving and road trips.

Technology and Features: What Gadgets Does It Have?

Okay, let's get into the techy stuff inside the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport. Subaru has packed this car with a decent amount of features, especially considering its price point. The centerpiece is definitely the infotainment system, which, as we mentioned earlier, comes with a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen. This screen is your gateway to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making smartphone integration a breeze. You can easily access your music, maps, and messages right on the car's display. If you want a bit more screen real estate, you can opt for the 8-inch touchscreen, which also adds a few extra features like voice command and SiriusXM satellite radio.

Beyond the infotainment system, the Impreza Sport comes standard with a rearview camera, which is essential for safe backing up and parking. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly. As you move up the trim levels, you'll find even more tech goodies, such as keyless entry, push-button start, and a sunroof. One of the most notable tech features is Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which is available as an option on the Impreza Sport. This suite of safety features includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. These features can help you stay safe on the road and prevent accidents.

However, the Impreza Sport's technology isn't perfect. Some reviewers have noted that the infotainment system can be a bit slow to respond at times, and the graphics aren't the most modern. The base audio system is also lacking in sound quality, and you'll likely want to upgrade to the optional Harman Kardon system if you're a music lover. Additionally, some of the safety features, such as lane departure warning, can be a bit too sensitive and intrusive, leading to false alarms.

In conclusion, the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a decent array of technology and features for its price. The infotainment system is user-friendly and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the available EyeSight Driver Assist Technology provides an extra layer of safety. While the technology isn't the most cutting-edge, it's functional and reliable, making the Impreza Sport a good choice for tech-savvy drivers on a budget.

Reliability and Safety: Can You Count On It?

When you're buying a car, reliability and safety are probably high on your list, and the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport doesn't disappoint. Subaru has a solid reputation for building dependable vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. According to various reliability surveys, the Impreza generally scores well, with owners reporting few major issues. This is partly due to Subaru's commitment to quality and its use of proven technology.

The Impreza also comes standard with Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, which not only enhances handling but also improves safety in adverse weather conditions. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, helping you stay in control on slippery roads. In terms of crash safety, the 2019 Subaru Impreza performs exceptionally well. It has earned top ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The Impreza received a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ award from IIHS.

One of the key reasons for the Impreza's strong safety performance is its robust structure and comprehensive suite of safety features. As we mentioned earlier, the Impreza is available with Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which includes features like adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane departure warning. These features can help you avoid accidents and mitigate the severity of collisions. The Impreza also comes standard with a full complement of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags.

However, it's important to note that no car is perfect, and the Impreza has had a few recalls over the years. These recalls have typically been for minor issues, such as problems with the fuel pump or the brake light switch. It's always a good idea to check the recall history of any car you're considering buying, and to make sure that any necessary repairs have been performed.

In summary, the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport is a reliable and safe car that you can count on. It has a solid reputation for dependability, excellent crash test scores, and a range of advanced safety features. While it's not immune to recalls, the Impreza is generally a safe and reliable choice for drivers who prioritize peace of mind.

Value and Verdict: Is It Worth Buying?

Alright, so we've covered a lot about the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport. Let's wrap it all up and see if it's actually worth your hard-earned cash. When it comes to value, the Impreza Sport offers a lot for its price. It's one of the most affordable cars on the market with standard all-wheel drive, which is a huge selling point for those who live in areas with snow or rain. The Impreza also gets good fuel economy, especially considering its all-wheel-drive system. And with its spacious interior and user-friendly technology, it's a practical choice for daily driving.

However, the Impreza Sport isn't without its drawbacks. Its engine is underpowered, and its CVT transmission can be a bit boring. The interior is also a bit bland, and some may find the ride to be too firm. But when you weigh the pros and cons, the Impreza Sport comes out on top for many buyers. It's a reliable, safe, and practical car that offers a lot of value for its price.

So, who is the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport for? It's a great choice for those who:

• Need all-wheel drive for inclement weather
• Want a reliable and safe car
• Value practicality and fuel economy
• Are on a budget

It might not be the best choice for those who:

• Want a sporty and exciting driving experience
• Prioritize luxury and comfort
• Need a lot of horsepower

In conclusion, the 2019 Subaru Impreza Sport is a solid choice for those who value reliability, safety, and practicality. While it's not the most exciting car on the market, it offers a lot of value for its price, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers who need all-wheel drive. So, is it worth buying? For the right person, absolutely! You should consider your own needs and preferences. Test drive one and see if it's the perfect fit for you.