With the 2.2-liter engine, acceleration of an AWD model is more than adequate with a manual transmission and adequate with automatic. Simply put, a 1.8-liter model lacks sufficient snap when you need to merge into expressway traffic or pass other cars on the highway. The 2.5-liter on the RS is probably the best all-around engine, providing ample acceleration and good passing power. All engines sound gruff and feel rough with manual shift. Our 1993 test wagon with AWD and a 5-speed felt sluggish from startup, while an AWD sedan with automatic was downright slow. We averaged 24.8 mpg overall with the early AWD wagon--very nice for an AWD car. Interior space is comparable to that of a Honda Civic, Geo Prizm, or Toyota Corolla. That means sufficient space for four adults. But rear leg space is barely adequate if the front seats are pushed back. Tall drivers might want more seat travel to get farther from the steering wheel and pedals. Visibility is good to all directions. Cargo space isn't so great, even in the wagon. Rear entry/exit wins no prizes, either, as doors are quite narrow at the bottom and don't open very wide. Dashboards are logically laid out, with controls grouped around the gauge cluster--easy to find and operate. On the downside, using the pull-out cupholder blocks access to the stereo controls.

Value for the Money
With the exception of available AWD, the Impreza fails to stand apart. Later models might be more tempting--especially the Outback Sport wagon or the 2.5 RS coupe.