Hey guys, let's dive deep into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs! If you're eyeing this specific model, you're probably after a car that blends sporty aesthetics with practical Subaru reliability. The Impreza Sport trim for 2018 really tried to hit that sweet spot, offering a bit more flair than the base models without breaking the bank. We're talking about a car that’s designed to be a solid all-rounder, perfect for daily commutes, weekend adventures, and everything in between. Subaru has a reputation for building cars that are not only durable but also offer excellent value, and the 2018 Impreza Sport is a prime example of that philosophy. It comes packed with features that make driving more enjoyable and safer, all wrapped up in a package that’s surprisingly spacious and versatile. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a small family, this car has a lot to offer.

What really sets the 2018 Impreza Sport apart is its focus on a more engaging driving experience, coupled with the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive that Subaru is famous for. This means you get confidence and stability in pretty much any weather condition, which is a huge plus for many drivers. The 'Sport' designation isn't just a badge; it hints at some tweaks aimed at making the car feel a bit more dynamic on the road. We'll be breaking down everything from the engine and transmission to the interior features, safety tech, and dimensions, so you know exactly what you're getting into. It's always a good idea to have all the specs laid out clearly, especially when you're making a decision about a vehicle. So, buckle up, and let's get into the nitty-gritty of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport!

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Beast

Alright, let's talk about what makes the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport tick: its engine and performance. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine. Now, 'BOXER' refers to the horizontally opposed cylinders, which Subaru has championed for ages. This design leads to a lower center of gravity, which is fantastic for handling and stability. For the 2018 Impreza Sport, this engine typically churns out around 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While it's not going to win any drag races, it's more than enough power for daily driving, merging onto highways, and navigating city streets with confidence. It’s a balanced powerplant that prioritizes smooth operation and efficiency.

When it comes to transmissions, the 2018 Impreza Sport offered buyers a choice. You could opt for a 5-speed manual transmission, for those who love to be in complete control and enjoy a more engaging driving experience. Or, for a more relaxed drive, there was the Subaru's Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The CVT is designed to keep the engine in its most efficient powerband, which helps with fuel economy and provides a smooth, seamless acceleration. It also often comes with paddle shifters, allowing you to manually select gear ratios if you feel like a more spirited drive, adding a touch of sportiness. It’s pretty cool that Subaru offered both options, catering to different driver preferences.

One of the absolute standout features, and a key part of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs, is the standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Unlike many competitors that only offer AWD on higher trims or as an expensive option, Subaru includes it across the board for the Impreza. This system is brilliant. It constantly monitors traction and sends power to the wheels that have the most grip, ensuring excellent stability and control in rain, snow, or even just slippery roads. This is a major reason why many people choose Subaru – that extra layer of security and capability is invaluable. The Sport trim also typically gets some suspension tuning that makes it feel a bit more responsive and athletic compared to lower trims, though it's still comfortable enough for everyday use. Fuel economy is respectable, too, with the CVT generally achieving better mileage than the manual, often in the ballpark of 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway, which is pretty great for an AWD vehicle.

Exterior and Interior Design: Style Meets Practicality

Let's talk about how the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport looks and feels, both inside and out. The exterior of the Sport trim was designed to be a bit more visually appealing than the standard models. You'll often notice unique 17-inch alloy wheels that give it a sportier stance. It also typically features body-colored side mirrors and door handles, and sometimes a rear spoiler on the sedan version, all contributing to a more dynamic appearance. The front fascia might get some subtle styling tweaks, like a sportier grille or front fascia design, setting it apart. The overall design is clean and modern, avoiding overly aggressive lines but still conveying a sense of athleticism. It's a car that looks good whether you're parked at the office or heading out on a road trip.

The Sport trim also often came with fog lights, which not only add to the look but are genuinely useful for improving visibility in poor weather conditions. Subaru's design language for the Impreza has always been about functionality and a bit of understated ruggedness, and the 2018 Sport version hits that mark well. It’s not flashy, but it’s purposeful and handsome. The dimensions are typical for a compact car, making it maneuverable in urban environments while still offering decent interior space. It’s the kind of car that doesn’t shout for attention but earns quiet admiration for its well-thought-out design and practical approach. It strikes a balance between being attractive and being ready for whatever life throws at it.

Now, let's hop inside. The interior of the 2018 Impreza Sport is where practicality really shines, but with some sporty touches. You'll likely find sport cloth upholstery with contrast stitching, giving the seats a more premium and engaging feel. The driver's seat often includes lumbar support to make those longer drives more comfortable. The steering wheel is usually a leather-wrapped unit, which feels great in your hands and adds a touch of sophistication. Red or blue stitching accents might be present throughout the cabin, reinforcing the Sport theme. Beyond the aesthetics, the cabin is known for its excellent visibility thanks to Subaru’s large windows and well-placed pillars. This makes driving and parking much easier and contributes to a feeling of spaciousness.

Subaru has always been good at making user-friendly interiors, and the 2018 Impreza is no exception. The layout of the controls is intuitive, and the materials, while not luxury-grade, are durable and well-assembled. You’ll find plenty of soft-touch surfaces in key areas. For entertainment and connectivity, the Sport trim usually comes standard with a 6.5-inch STARLINK touchscreen infotainment system. This system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, which are essential these days for seamless smartphone connectivity. Bluetooth hands-free calling and audio streaming are also standard, along with USB ports for charging devices. Some models might even offer SiriusXM® radio. The automatic climate control system keeps the cabin temperature just right, and the rear-view camera is a standard feature for added safety when backing up. It's a comfortable, functional, and well-equipped space designed for everyday life. The rear seats offer good legroom for the class, and the trunk space is also competitive, especially in the hatchback variant, making it a very practical choice for hauling gear or groceries.

Technology and Safety Features: Peace of Mind Included

When you're looking at the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs, you absolutely have to consider the technology and safety features, because Subaru really doubles down in this area. For starters, the infotainment system is quite capable. As mentioned, the 6.5-inch STARLINK touchscreen is the centerpiece, offering crisp visuals and responsive touch controls. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard is a massive win. This means you can easily access your favorite navigation apps (like Google Maps or Waze), stream music, make calls, and send messages using voice commands, all through the car’s interface. It makes using your phone while driving much safer and more convenient. Beyond that, you get Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calls and audio streaming, and a suite of pre-loaded apps through STARLINK that can enhance your experience. USB ports are strategically placed for easy access, ensuring your devices stay charged on the go. The sound system is generally decent for the class, providing clear audio for music and podcasts.

But where Subaru truly excels is in safety. The 2018 Impreza Sport comes standard with a rear-view camera, which is a must-have for parking and reversing safely. Beyond that, depending on the specific package or options chosen, you could equip the car with Subaru's EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology. This suite of advanced safety features is truly impressive. It uses a stereo camera system mounted near the rear-view mirror to monitor the road ahead and can include features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Pre-Collision Braking, Pre-Collision Throttle Management, and Lane Departure and Sway Warning. Adaptive Cruise Control is a game-changer on long highway drives, automatically maintaining a set speed and distance from the vehicle in front. Pre-Collision Braking can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision, potentially avoiding an accident or reducing its severity. Lane Departure Warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane unintentionally. These systems significantly enhance the car's ability to help prevent accidents, giving drivers incredible peace of mind.

In addition to EyeSight®, the Impreza is built on Subaru's Global Platform, which is engineered for enhanced rigidity and crash protection. It features a robust frame, multiple airbags (including front, side-curtain, and knee airbags), and active safety systems like traction control and stability control. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system itself is a major safety feature, providing superior grip and stability in challenging conditions. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) often gives the Impreza top ratings for safety, reflecting Subaru's commitment to protecting its occupants. When you combine the advanced active safety tech with the passive safety structures and the inherent stability of AWD, the 2018 Impreza Sport stands out as a very safe and secure vehicle in its class. It’s the kind of car that makes you feel confident and protected, no matter where your journey takes you.

Dimensions and Practicality: Is it Roomy Enough?

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs regarding its physical size and how practical it is for your everyday needs. The Impreza Sport was available as both a 4-door sedan and a 5-door hatchback. This choice alone significantly impacts practicality, especially cargo space. The sedan offers a more traditional trunk, while the hatchback is the champion for versatility.

For the sedan, the overall length is typically around 175.6 inches, with a width of about 69.8 inches and a height of 57.3 inches. The wheelbase is 105.1 inches, which is pretty generous for the compact class and contributes to a comfortable ride and good interior legroom. The hatchback version is slightly longer overall, usually around 168.9 inches (or a bit more depending on the bumper design), but shares the same width and height as the sedan. The longer wheelbase on both helps maximize interior space. It's important to note that these dimensions make the Impreza Sport a compact car, meaning it’s easy to maneuver and park in tight city spots, but it’s not so small that it feels cramped inside.

Inside, Subaru did a commendable job maximizing the available space. Front passengers get ample headroom and legroom, usually around 39.8 inches of headroom and 43.1 inches of legroom. Rear passengers aren't forgotten either, with a respectable 36.7 inches of headroom and 35.2 inches of legroom. While the rear legroom is on the tighter side compared to some larger sedans, it’s perfectly adequate for average-sized adults or children for typical journeys. The generous cabin width also means you don't feel too squeezed next to your fellow passengers.

Cargo space is where the hatchback really shines. The 2018 Impreza Sport hatchback offers a substantial 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Fold those seats down (and they split 60/40 for added flexibility), and you get a cavernous 55.3 cubic feet of space. This is enough to haul furniture, bikes (with front wheel removed), or a significant amount of gear for camping or sports. The sedan's trunk, while smaller, still offers a respectable 12.3 cubic feet of storage, which is sufficient for groceries, luggage for a weekend trip, or sports equipment. The liftover height for both the trunk and the hatchback are also reasonably low, making loading and unloading easier. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system does add a slight bit to the floor height in the cargo area, particularly in the hatchback, but the overall utility remains excellent. The fuel tank capacity is typically around 14.5 gallons, which, combined with the good fuel economy, provides a solid driving range between fill-ups.

Why the 2018 Impreza Sport Might Be the Right Choice

So, after breaking down all the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs, why might this car be the perfect fit for you? First off, standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is a massive differentiator in the compact segment. If you live anywhere with unpredictable weather – snow, rain, ice – or just want that extra grip and confidence year-round, the Impreza Sport delivers. It’s not an option; it’s standard equipment, offering incredible value. Combined with Subaru’s reputation for reliability and durability, you’re getting a car that’s built to last and handle diverse conditions.

The Sport trim itself offers a compelling package. It adds those sporty design cues like unique wheels and interior accents that make the car feel more special without a huge price jump. You get a more engaging look and feel that complements the capable performance. Speaking of performance, the 152-horsepower 2.0L BOXER engine provides a balanced blend of power and efficiency, especially when paired with the CVT. The handling is often praised for being responsive, and the low center of gravity from the boxer engine really helps.

Safety is another huge selling point. Even without the optional EyeSight® system, the Impreza boasts a strong safety structure and standard backup camera. With EyeSight®, you’re getting some of the most advanced driver-assist features available, rivaling luxury brands. This makes the Impreza Sport an incredibly secure choice for commuting, road trips, and family duty. Technology integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is seamless, keeping you connected and entertained.

Finally, practicality is key. Whether you choose the sedan or the hatchback, the interior is well-designed, offering good passenger space and user-friendly controls. The hatchback, in particular, offers exceptional cargo versatility, making it a fantastic option for those who need to carry gear or appreciate the flexibility. The 2018 Impreza Sport hits a sweet spot – it's practical, safe, capable in all weather, technologically up-to-date, and offers a touch of sporty style. It’s a smart, well-rounded package that delivers a lot of value for its price point. If you're in the market for a compact car that punches above its weight, the 2018 Impreza Sport is definitely one to consider.