2025 Subaru Impreza RS: POV Driving Impressions and Review

2025 Subaru Impreza RS Overview

🚗 The 2025 Subaru Impreza RS is reviewed, featuring a 2.5L naturally aspirated boxer 4-cylinder engine and a CVT with an 8-speed manual mode.
💡 This model is highlighted as one of the last true, honest hatchbacks, distinct from CUV-styled lifted versions.
💰 The vehicle is presented as efficient, powerful enough, super safe, and cost-effective, with the tested model priced at $32,000.

🔊 The tested Impreza RS includes optional features like the Harman Kardon sound system and a 10-way power driver's seat.
📱 The infotainment system is described as semi-functional, with heated seat buttons noted for their long-standing design.
💺 The interior offers spaciousness with ample legroom and headroom, featuring comfortable, well-bolstered cloth seats.

🔴 The RS model is finished in red and features black wheels, avoiding the excessive plastic fender cladding found on the WRX or Crosstrek.
🧐 The design is considered cool and pretty, with a discussion about the possibility of an STI hatch variant.
🇯🇵 The vehicle is built in Japan, contributing to a feeling of solid construction.

💨 The 2.5L engine provides 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque, offering ample power for daily driving and merging.
🛣️ The handling is described as sharp, nimble, and spritely, with minimal body roll and a well-controlled ride.
⚙️ Two throttle tuning modes, 'S' (sharp) and 'I' (intelligent), are available, with 'S' mode offering quicker revs and a less lazy response.

📦 The hatch offers good cargo space, though it lacks a spare tire, only including a jack and tool kit.
⛽ Fuel economy is respectable, averaging around 25.6 MPG with spirited driving, above the EPA's city rating.
🆚 The Impreza RS is compared to the Honda Civic, offering an all-wheel-drive alternative for those in snowy climates, and is seen as handling better and looking better than the Crosstrek.
🤔 The reviewer expresses a slight reservation about its position in Subaru's lineup, questioning why one would choose it over a Crosstrek or WRX, despite applauding Subaru for continuing to make a proper hatchback.