Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus. If you're in the market for a reliable, safe, and fuel-efficient compact car with a touch of luxury, this might just be the ride for you. We’re going to explore everything from its performance and interior features to its safety ratings and overall value. Buckle up, because we’ve got a lot to cover!

Overview of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus stands out in the crowded compact car segment, and it's important to understand why. Firstly, Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety, and this model is no exception. Equipped with Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology, it offers advanced safety features that can significantly reduce the risk of accidents. This includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking, making it an excellent choice for families and daily commuters alike. Secondly, the Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive, a feature not commonly found in its class. This gives it superior traction and stability in various weather conditions, making it a reliable option for those living in areas with snow or rain.

Beyond safety and practicality, the Premium Plus trim adds a touch of luxury with features like heated front seats, a sunroof, and upgraded infotainment system, enhancing the overall driving experience. These added comforts make long drives more enjoyable and everyday commutes less of a chore. In terms of fuel efficiency, the Impreza performs admirably, offering a balance between power and economy. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for city and highway driving, while still managing to deliver impressive gas mileage. The combination of these features makes the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus a well-rounded vehicle that caters to a variety of needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize safety, all-weather capability, or a comfortable driving experience, this car has something to offer. It's a testament to Subaru's dedication to providing reliable, practical, and enjoyable vehicles.

Performance and Handling

Let's get into how the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus actually performs on the road. The heart of this car is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While it's not a powerhouse, it provides enough pep for daily driving and merging onto the highway. The engine is paired with a Lineartronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), which prioritizes fuel efficiency. Some drivers might find the CVT a bit uninspiring compared to a traditional automatic, but it does a great job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. The real star of the show here is Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. It provides excellent traction in all kinds of weather, giving you confidence on wet, snowy, or even gravel roads. This is a feature that sets the Impreza apart from many of its competitors, which only offer front-wheel drive.

In terms of handling, the Impreza feels stable and composed. The steering is precise, and the car corners well, making it fun to drive on winding roads. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and potholes, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. One thing to keep in mind is that the Impreza isn't the quickest car off the line. Acceleration is adequate, but it won't pin you to your seat. However, for most drivers, the balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability makes the Impreza a compelling choice. Plus, the all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of safety and security, especially in challenging driving conditions. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a well-rounded driving experience that prioritizes practicality and reliability.

Interior and Features

Moving inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and comfortable. The Premium Plus trim adds some nice upgrades over the base model, making it a more pleasant place to spend time. The seats are upholstered in a durable cloth material, and the front seats are heated, which is a welcome feature on cold mornings. The driver's seat is also height-adjustable, making it easy to find a comfortable driving position. The dashboard layout is clean and straightforward, with all the controls within easy reach. The infotainment system is centered around an 8-inch touchscreen display, which is responsive and easy to use. It includes features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone.

One of the standout features of the Premium Plus trim is the sunroof, which lets in plenty of natural light and makes the cabin feel more spacious. Other notable features include automatic climate control, a rearview camera, and a six-speaker audio system. The Impreza also offers plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. There's ample headroom and legroom in both the front and rear seats, making it comfortable for adults to ride in the back. The trunk offers 12.3 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more space for larger items. While the interior isn't the most luxurious in its class, it's well-built and practical, with all the features you need for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The combination of comfort, technology, and space makes the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus a great choice for daily commutes and weekend road trips.

Safety and Reliability

When it comes to safety and reliability, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus truly shines. Subaru has built a reputation for producing safe vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. It comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist technology. This includes adaptive cruise control, which automatically maintains a safe following distance from the car in front of you; lane departure warning, which alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane; and automatic emergency braking, which can help prevent or mitigate collisions.

In addition to these advanced features, the Impreza also comes with standard safety equipment like anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a full complement of airbags. The Impreza has earned excellent crash-test scores from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), further solidifying its reputation as a safe vehicle. Reliability is another area where the Impreza excels. Subaru vehicles are known for their durability and longevity, and the Impreza is no exception. According to consumer reports and owner reviews, the 2018 Impreza has above-average reliability ratings, with few reported issues. This gives you peace of mind knowing that you can count on your Impreza to get you where you need to go, day after day. The combination of advanced safety features, excellent crash-test scores, and strong reliability ratings makes the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus a smart and safe choice for anyone looking for a compact car.

Fuel Economy

Let's talk fuel economy for the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus because, let's face it, nobody wants to spend all their time and money at the gas pump! This model is pretty efficient for an all-wheel-drive vehicle, offering an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. This fuel economy is achieved thanks to the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and the Lineartronic CVT transmission, which work together to optimize fuel consumption. Of course, your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions. If you do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, you might not achieve the EPA's estimates. However, on long highway trips, you can expect to get close to the advertised 38 mpg. To maximize your fuel economy, it's important to drive smoothly and avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Keeping your tires properly inflated and performing regular maintenance can also help improve your gas mileage.

Compared to other compact cars in its class, the Impreza's fuel economy is competitive, especially considering that it comes standard with all-wheel drive. Many of its competitors only offer front-wheel drive, which can give them a slight edge in fuel efficiency. However, the Impreza's all-wheel-drive system provides superior traction and stability, which can be a significant benefit in certain driving conditions. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a good balance of fuel economy and all-weather capability, making it a practical choice for drivers who want to save money on gas without sacrificing performance or safety.

Pricing and Value

Now, let's dive into the pricing and overall value of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus. When it was new, the MSRP for this trim level typically ranged from around $22,000 to $25,000, depending on options and packages. However, since it's a used car now, you can expect to find it for a lower price on the used car market. The exact price will depend on factors like mileage, condition, and location. To get a good sense of the current market value, it's a good idea to check online car marketplaces and see what similar models are selling for in your area.

In terms of value, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a lot for the money. It comes standard with all-wheel drive, which is a rare feature in its class. It also has a host of desirable features like heated front seats, a sunroof, and an upgraded infotainment system. Plus, it has excellent safety ratings and a reputation for reliability. When you consider all of these factors, the Impreza Premium Plus represents a strong value proposition. It's a practical, safe, and well-equipped car that won't break the bank. Of course, it's important to compare it to other compact cars in its class to see which one best meets your needs and budget. But if you're looking for a reliable and affordable all-wheel-drive car, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is definitely worth considering. It offers a great combination of features, performance, and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final word on the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus? Overall, it's a fantastic choice for anyone seeking a reliable, safe, and well-equipped compact car. The standard all-wheel drive is a major selling point, providing excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions. The Premium Plus trim adds a touch of luxury with features like heated seats and a sunroof, making it a comfortable and enjoyable car to drive. While it's not the fastest or most exciting car on the road, it offers a balanced driving experience that prioritizes practicality and reliability. The fuel economy is decent, and the safety ratings are excellent. Plus, Subaru has a reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles.

If you're in the market for a used compact car, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is definitely worth a look. It offers a great combination of features, performance, and value, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers. Just be sure to do your research, compare prices, and get a pre-purchase inspection to ensure that you're getting a good car. But if everything checks out, you can be confident that you're making a solid investment. The 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is a car that you can rely on for years to come.