2015 Subaru Impreza Sport: Review, Specs & More

by Alex Braham 48 views

Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport, a car that blends practicality with a touch of fun. If you're in the market for a reliable, all-weather compact car with a bit of sporty flair, the Impreza Sport deserves a spot on your shortlist. This article will cover everything you need to know, from its performance and features to its pros and cons, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Overview of the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport

The 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport is a standout in the compact car segment, offering a unique combination of standard all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and a sporty edge. It's designed for those who need a dependable daily driver but also crave a bit of excitement on the road. With its well-rounded features and reputation for reliability, the Impreza Sport appeals to a wide range of drivers. The 2015 model year saw some minor updates, enhancing its appeal and solidifying its position as a competitive option.

Subaru has always been synonymous with all-wheel drive, and the Impreza is no exception. This feature provides enhanced traction and stability, making it an excellent choice for those living in areas with challenging weather conditions. The Sport trim adds visual and functional enhancements, such as a sport-tuned suspension, unique exterior styling, and upgraded interior features. These additions give the Impreza Sport a more engaging driving experience and a distinctive appearance.

Inside, the 2015 Impreza Sport offers a comfortable and functional cabin. The design is straightforward, with user-friendly controls and a focus on practicality. While it may not be the most luxurious option in its class, the Impreza Sport provides a pleasant environment for both driver and passengers. The rear seats offer ample space for adults, and the cargo area is surprisingly generous, making it suitable for carrying groceries, luggage, or sports equipment.

Safety is also a key consideration for Subaru, and the 2015 Impreza Sport comes equipped with a range of safety features. These include anti-lock brakes, stability control, and a suite of airbags. The Impreza has also performed well in crash tests, earning top safety ratings from reputable organizations. This gives drivers peace of mind knowing they are behind the wheel of a vehicle designed to protect them and their passengers.

Overall, the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport is a well-rounded compact car that offers a compelling package of features, performance, and value. Its standard all-wheel drive, sporty enhancements, and reputation for reliability make it a popular choice among drivers. Whether you're navigating city streets or exploring back roads, the Impreza Sport is designed to deliver a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

Performance and Handling

When it comes to performance, the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport offers a balanced approach that emphasizes efficiency and control. The heart of the Impreza Sport is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this may not sound like a lot, it's adequate for everyday driving and provides enough power for merging onto highways and navigating city streets. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on the driver's preference.

The standard all-wheel-drive system is a key differentiator for the Impreza Sport. It provides enhanced traction and stability, making it a confident performer in various weather conditions. Whether you're driving on snow-covered roads or navigating wet pavement, the all-wheel-drive system helps maintain control and reduces the risk of slippage. This is a significant advantage over many other compact cars that offer front-wheel drive as standard.

The Sport trim includes a sport-tuned suspension that enhances handling and provides a more engaging driving experience. The suspension is firmer than the base Impreza, which reduces body roll and improves cornering ability. This makes the Impreza Sport more fun to drive on winding roads, while still maintaining a comfortable ride on everyday commutes. The steering is responsive and provides good feedback, allowing drivers to feel connected to the road.

Fuel efficiency is another strong point for the 2015 Impreza Sport. With the CVT, it achieves an EPA-estimated 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. These numbers are competitive for the compact car segment and make the Impreza Sport an economical choice for daily driving. Even with the manual transmission, fuel economy is still respectable, making it a practical option for those who prefer the engagement of a manual gearbox.

In terms of acceleration, the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport can go from 0 to 60 mph in around 9 seconds. While this isn't particularly quick, it's adequate for most driving situations. The engine delivers smooth and consistent power, making it easy to maintain speed and navigate traffic. The CVT provides seamless acceleration, while the manual transmission offers more control and a more engaging driving experience.

Overall, the 2015 Impreza Sport offers a balanced and capable performance. Its standard all-wheel drive, sport-tuned suspension, and fuel-efficient engine make it a versatile choice for drivers who want a practical and fun-to-drive compact car. Whether you're commuting to work or exploring back roads, the Impreza Sport is designed to deliver a confident and enjoyable driving experience.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport, you'll find a cabin designed for practicality and comfort. While it may not be the most luxurious interior in its class, it offers a range of features and a user-friendly layout that makes it a pleasant place to spend time. The design is straightforward, with easy-to-reach controls and a focus on functionality. The materials used are durable and well-assembled, contributing to a sense of quality.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive, providing ample cushioning for long drives. The driver's seat is adjustable, allowing drivers of different sizes to find a comfortable position. The rear seats offer generous legroom and headroom, making them suitable for adults. The 60/40 split-folding rear seats provide flexibility for carrying cargo and passengers, allowing you to configure the interior to meet your needs.

The 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport comes standard with a range of features, including air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. The infotainment system includes a 6.2-inch touchscreen display, which provides access to audio controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and smartphone integration. The system is easy to use, with intuitive menus and responsive touch controls. A rearview camera is also standard, which enhances safety and makes parking easier.

Upgrading to the Sport Premium trim adds even more features, such as heated front seats, a sunroof, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. These additions enhance comfort and convenience, making the Impreza Sport an even more appealing option. The upgraded audio system provides better sound quality, while the sunroof allows you to enjoy fresh air and natural light.

Storage space is another strong point for the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport. The center console offers ample storage for small items, while the door pockets provide additional space for water bottles and other essentials. The cargo area is surprisingly generous, with 12 cubic feet of space in the sedan and 22.5 cubic feet in the hatchback. With the rear seats folded down, the hatchback offers up to 52.4 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a versatile choice for carrying larger items.

Overall, the 2015 Impreza Sport offers a comfortable and functional interior with a range of features that enhance convenience and enjoyment. While it may not be the most luxurious option in its class, it provides a practical and user-friendly environment for both driver and passengers. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, the Impreza Sport is designed to deliver a pleasant and comfortable experience.

Potential Issues and Reliability

When considering the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport, it's important to be aware of potential issues and reliability concerns. While the Impreza has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle, like any car, it's not without its potential problems. Understanding these issues can help you make an informed decision and avoid surprises down the road.

One common issue reported by owners of the 2015 Impreza is related to the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Some drivers have experienced issues such as hesitation, jerking, or unusual noises. While not all Imprezas with CVTs experience these problems, it's something to be aware of. It's recommended to have the CVT inspected by a qualified mechanic before purchasing a used Impreza.

Another potential issue is related to the engine. Some owners have reported oil consumption issues, where the engine consumes more oil than expected. This can lead to low oil levels and potential engine damage if not properly monitored. It's important to check the oil level regularly and address any oil consumption issues promptly.

In terms of reliability, the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport generally scores well. Subaru has a reputation for building durable and long-lasting vehicles. However, it's important to keep in mind that reliability can vary depending on factors such as maintenance, driving conditions, and individual vehicle history. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tune-ups, is essential for keeping the Impreza in good condition.

To get a better understanding of the Impreza's reliability, it's helpful to consult consumer reviews and reliability ratings. Websites such as Consumer Reports and J.D. Power provide valuable insights into the reliability of various vehicles. These sources can give you an idea of the potential problems you may encounter and how the Impreza compares to other cars in its class.

Overall, the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport is generally a reliable vehicle, but it's important to be aware of potential issues such as CVT problems and oil consumption. By staying informed and taking proper care of your Impreza, you can minimize the risk of problems and enjoy a long and trouble-free ownership experience.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, here's a breakdown of the pros and cons of the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport:

Pros:

  • Standard all-wheel drive: Provides enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions.
  • Sport-tuned suspension: Enhances handling and provides a more engaging driving experience.
  • Fuel-efficient engine: Delivers competitive fuel economy for the compact car segment.
  • Spacious interior: Offers ample room for passengers and cargo.
  • Good safety ratings: Earns top scores in crash tests.

Cons:

  • Engine power: The 148-horsepower engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
  • CVT issues: Some owners have reported problems with the continuously variable transmission.
  • Oil consumption: Some engines may consume more oil than expected.
  • Interior styling: The interior design is functional but not particularly luxurious.

Is the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport Right for You?

So, is the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport the right car for you? It really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value all-wheel drive, fuel efficiency, and a sporty driving experience, the Impreza Sport is definitely worth considering. Its standard all-wheel-drive system makes it an excellent choice for those living in areas with challenging weather conditions, while its sport-tuned suspension adds a fun factor to everyday driving.

However, if you prioritize engine power and a luxurious interior, you may want to explore other options. The Impreza's 148-horsepower engine may not be enough for drivers who want a more exhilarating driving experience, and its interior design is more functional than luxurious. It's important to weigh these factors carefully and determine what's most important to you.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2015 Subaru Impreza Sport is right for you is to take it for a test drive. This will give you a chance to experience its handling, acceleration, and overall driving dynamics firsthand. You can also assess the comfort and features of the interior and see if it meets your needs. Be sure to ask the dealer about any potential issues or concerns and have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.

By doing your research and taking the time to test drive the Impreza Sport, you can make an informed decision and choose a car that's right for you. Whether you're looking for a reliable daily driver or a fun-to-drive compact car, the Impreza Sport offers a compelling package of features and value.