Subaru Impreza RS 2007 review

However, the lasting impression of the RS is that it has not taken the Impreza performance into any new territory.

The new look of the Impreza has split opinion, with much criticism that the “no-nonsense” look of the previous car has been softened too much. For several reasons the Impreza RS left some of the judges wondering just how much of an improvement the car really was.

It remains thirsty with the 2.0-litre flat-four engine returning fuel economy figures well above its official ADR rating during both the track and road sessions.

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Explore the 2007 Subaru Impreza Range

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A major downfall of this mid-size hatch is the lack of a fifth gear in the auto transmission - an almost cavernous gap between second and third gear proving quite annoying.

Fit and finish is of good quality and the controls and their layout are practical, while a softer ride is a bonus on the road when compared to the previous model.

Where the Impreza does really excel is in the commitment to safety - featuring dual front, side and curtain airbags, all-wheel drive, ABS brakes and stability control as standard across the entire model range.

Check out the video below and let us know if you think this is a worthy Car of the Year nominee.

For all the latest on the carsguide Car Of The Year each week go to www.carsguide.com.au/car-of-the-year