Hey guys, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport! If you're on the hunt for a reliable, stylish, and fun-to-drive compact car, the Impreza Sport is definitely worth a closer look. Subaru has always been known for its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system, and this model is no exception, offering superior traction and handling in a variety of conditions. But it's not just about the AWD; the 2018 Impreza Sport packs a punch with its performance, technology, and comfort features, making it a solid contender in its class. We're going to break down all the essential specs and features that make this car a standout option for everyday driving and weekend adventures alike. So, buckle up as we explore what the 2018 Impreza Sport has to offer, from its engine and fuel economy to its interior space and safety ratings. Whether you're a seasoned Subaru enthusiast or new to the brand, you'll find plenty to love about this sporty Impreza.

Engine and Performance: Getting the Job Done

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport. For this model year, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder SUBARU BOXER engine. Now, don't let the "four-cylinder" fool you; this engine is designed to deliver a respectable 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. This power is more than enough for zipping around town, merging onto the highway, and even tackling some winding roads with confidence. The real magic, though, comes from Subaru's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This isn't your typical front-wheel-drive setup; AWD is standard on all Impreza trims for 2018, which is a huge selling point for many. It means that power is distributed continuously to all four wheels, enhancing grip, stability, and control, especially in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice. It’s a game-changer, guys, giving you peace of mind no matter the weather. The Sport trim comes standard with a 5-speed manual transmission, which is fantastic for those who love a more engaging driving experience. But, if you prefer, you can opt for the Lineartronic® Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which is designed to optimize fuel efficiency and provide smoother acceleration. The CVT also comes with manual mode and paddle shifters on the Sport trim, so you can still get a bit of that sporty feel if you desire. When it comes to handling, the Impreza Sport offers a well-balanced ride. The suspension is tuned for a good mix of comfort and responsiveness, making it enjoyable to drive whether you're commuting or going on a road trip. The steering is precise, and the car feels planted on the road, further contributing to that confident driving feel. So, while it might not be a sports car in the traditional sense, the 2018 Impreza Sport offers a capable and enjoyable performance package, especially when you factor in the standard AWD. It's a practical powerhouse that's ready for whatever your day throws at it.

Fuel Economy: Smart Savings on the Road

Let's talk about keeping your wallet happy, because the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is pretty good on gas, guys! Fuel efficiency is a big deal for most of us, and the Impreza Sport strikes a nice balance between its all-wheel-drive capability and its fuel consumption. When equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission, the Impreza Sport achieves an EPA-estimated 22 miles per gallon (MPG) in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. That's decent for an AWD vehicle, especially one that offers such great all-weather traction. However, if you opt for the Lineartronic® CVT, you'll see a noticeable improvement in fuel economy. The CVT version boasts an EPA-estimated 28 MPG in the city and 38 MPG on the highway. That's a significant jump, especially on the highway, which can really add up if you do a lot of long-distance driving or commuting. So, the choice of transmission can make a difference in your long-term fuel costs. It's awesome that Subaru offers both options, catering to drivers who prioritize engagement with the manual or maximum efficiency with the CVT. Remember, these are EPA estimates, and your actual mileage may vary depending on driving habits, road conditions, and vehicle maintenance. But generally speaking, the Impreza Sport, particularly with the CVT, is quite competitive in its class for fuel efficiency, which is impressive considering the standard AWD system. This means you can enjoy the benefits of Subaru's renowned grip and stability without completely sacrificing your budget at the pump. It's a smart choice for those looking for a practical, all-season vehicle that doesn't guzzle gas. Plus, the Impreza typically runs on regular unleaded gasoline, which is usually cheaper than premium fuels required by some competitors. So, when you factor in the purchase price, the standard AWD, and the respectable fuel economy, the 2018 Impreza Sport presents a compelling value proposition for budget-conscious drivers who still want a capable and safe car.

Exterior Design: Sporty Looks That Turn Heads

When you look at the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, you can immediately tell it's got a bit more flair than the standard trims. Subaru did a great job giving the Sport model a distinct look that says, "I'm not just your average commuter car." The front fascia features a unique grille design and sportier front bumper, which gives it a more aggressive and dynamic stance. You'll also notice 17-inch alloy wheels that come standard on the Sport trim, adding a touch of athleticism and complementing its overall profile. These wheels aren't just for looks; they contribute to the car's sporty handling. The side profile benefits from sculpted lines and a sleek silhouette that hints at its agile nature. And, of course, being an Impreza, it's available in both sedan and 5-door hatchback body styles, giving you options depending on your needs and preferences. The hatchback, in particular, offers that versatile, can-do attitude that many people love. For the 2018 Sport trim, Subaru also added unique exterior accents like rocker panel extensions and a rear spoiler (on the hatchback) to further enhance its sporty appeal. These details might seem small, but they collectively make the Impreza Sport stand out from the crowd. The headlights are stylish and functional, providing excellent illumination, and the taillights have a distinctive design that's easily recognizable. The overall design language is modern and clean, avoiding overly flashy elements while still exuding a sense of sportiness and sophistication. It's a car that looks good whether you're parking it at the grocery store or taking it on a weekend getaway. The proportions are well-balanced, and the build quality, as is typical with Subaru, feels solid and well-executed. So, if you're looking for a compact car that doesn't blend into the background and has a sporty aesthetic without being over-the-top, the 2018 Impreza Sport definitely delivers on that front. It's a car that's as pleasing to the eye as it is to drive.

Interior Comfort and Technology: Your Connected Cabin

Step inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, and you'll find an interior that's designed to be both comfortable and technologically savvy, guys. Subaru has really stepped up its game in recent years, and the Impreza Sport is a great example of that. The cabin offers a surprisingly spacious feel for a compact car, with good headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The Sport trim gets some unique interior touches to set it apart, like sport cloth upholstery with contrast stitching, which adds a premium feel and better grip during spirited driving. The seats are supportive and comfortable, making them ideal for longer journeys. The driver's seat typically offers multiple adjustments to help you find that perfect driving position. Behind the wheel, you'll find a leather-wrapped steering wheel, which feels great in your hands and is home to various controls for the audio system, cruise control, and Bluetooth hands-free calling. This keeps your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road, which is always a win. Speaking of technology, the infotainment system is a key highlight. The 2018 Impreza Sport comes standard with a 6.5-inch STARLINK touchscreen display. This system is your hub for entertainment, connectivity, and vehicle information. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are absolutely essential these days, guys! This means you can seamlessly integrate your smartphone to access your favorite apps, music, navigation, and make calls directly through the car's touchscreen. It's incredibly convenient and keeps you connected on the go. Other tech features often include Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports for charging devices, and a rearview camera for easier parking and reversing. Higher trims or optional packages might add features like satellite radio or even a Harman Kardon premium audio system for an even better sound experience. The overall layout of the dashboard is intuitive and user-friendly, with physical buttons for climate control and other frequently used functions, which many drivers still appreciate. The materials used in the cabin are generally good quality for the segment, giving it a solid and refined feel. The attention to detail, like the soft-touch surfaces and the clean design, makes the Impreza Sport a pleasant place to spend time. So, whether you're commuting to work or heading out on an adventure, the 2018 Impreza Sport's interior offers a comfortable, connected, and enjoyable environment.

Safety Features: Peace of Mind on Every Drive

When it comes to safety, Subaru doesn't mess around, and the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a prime example of their commitment. This car is packed with features designed to protect you and your passengers, giving you that extra peace of mind on every journey, guys. First off, the Impreza Sport benefits from Subaru's strong body structure, which is engineered to absorb and redirect impact energy in the event of a collision. It’s built with high-strength steel, contributing to its overall safety profile. Beyond the passive safety features, the Impreza Sport offers a suite of active safety technologies, especially if you opt for the EyeSight® Driver Assist Technology package. EyeSight is Subaru's signature safety system, and it's truly impressive. It uses stereo cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor traffic, identify potential hazards, and can even intervene if necessary. Key features within EyeSight include: Pre-Collision Braking, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an imminent frontal collision; Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which can reduce engine power if a frontal collision is likely, helping to mitigate damage; Adaptive Cruise Control, which can maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing driver fatigue on long drives; and Lane Keep Assist, which can gently steer the vehicle back into its lane if it starts to drift unintentionally. These are game-changing features that can help prevent accidents or reduce their severity. In addition to EyeSight, the 2018 Impreza Sport typically comes standard with a rearview camera, which is incredibly helpful for backing up safely. You'll also find other standard safety features like multiple airbags (front, side-curtain, and knee airbags), anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), and traction control systems. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) often give the Impreza excellent safety ratings, which is a testament to its design and engineering. For instance, the 2018 Impreza received a TOP SAFETY PICK designation from the IIHS, and typically earns high marks in crash testing. So, whether you're navigating busy city streets or cruising on the open highway, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is equipped with advanced safety features that prioritize your well-being. It's a car that's designed not just to get you from point A to point B, but to do so as safely as possible.

Trim Levels and Value: What You Get for Your Money

When you're looking at the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, it's important to understand its place within the lineup and the value it offers, guys. The Impreza was redesigned for the 2017 model year, and the 2018 Sport trim builds upon that foundation, offering a compelling blend of features and sporty styling. The Impreza lineup for 2018 generally included base, Premium, Sport, and Limited trims, with the Sport sitting comfortably in the middle, offering a nice step up from the base and Premium models without the higher price tag of the Limited. The Sport trim is specifically designed for those who want a bit more excitement and a sportier aesthetic. As we've discussed, this translates to features like the unique grille, 17-inch alloy wheels, rocker panel extensions, and interior accents like sport cloth seats with contrast stitching. It's essentially an appearance and minor performance package wrapped into one. Compared to the Premium trim, the Sport often adds those styling cues and sometimes might have slightly different standard equipment, depending on the specific configuration. The value proposition of the Sport trim is strong because it includes many desirable features as standard that might be optional on lower trims, or simply unavailable. For instance, the inclusion of the 6.5-inch STARLINK touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a major draw for tech-savvy buyers. The standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive is, of course, a huge value-add that sets the Impreza apart from many front-wheel-drive competitors in its price bracket. When considering its MSRP at the time of release, the 2018 Impreza Sport offered a lot of bang for your buck. You were getting a well-equipped, safe, and capable compact car with standard AWD and modern tech, all wrapped in a sportier package. If you were looking at other compacts, you'd often be paying extra for AWD or advanced safety features that come standard on the Impreza. Even when looking at used models today, the 2018 Impreza Sport often holds its value well due to Subaru's reputation for reliability and the enduring appeal of its AWD system. So, whether you were buying new or considering a pre-owned option, the Sport trim provided a solid balance of style, features, and capability that made it a smart financial choice for many buyers.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Compact Car Choice

So, what's the final verdict on the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport? Well, guys, it's a seriously well-rounded compact car that punches above its weight in several key areas. We've covered a lot of ground, from its capable 2.0-liter engine and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system to its impressive fuel economy (especially with the CVT), sporty exterior styling, and tech-filled interior. The safety features, particularly the availability of EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, further solidify its appeal as a smart and secure choice for drivers and families alike. The Sport trim itself strikes a fantastic balance, offering those desirable sporty aesthetics and interior touches without breaking the bank, making it a popular choice for those who want a little extra flair. It's not just about having a car that looks good; it's about having a car that performs reliably, offers excellent traction in all conditions, and keeps you connected and safe. For anyone in the market for a compact sedan or hatchback that offers a premium driving experience, superior all-weather capability, and a solid dose of technology and safety, the 2018 Impreza Sport is an excellent contender. It's a testament to Subaru's commitment to building durable, practical, and enjoyable vehicles. Whether you're a daily commuter, a student heading to campus, or an adventurer looking for a dependable ride, the 2018 Impreza Sport is a car that consistently delivers on its promises. It’s a smart buy that offers great value and a driving experience that continues to impress.