What small all-wheel drive hatchback should I buy?

Small all-wheel drive hatchbacks are rare in Australia, as only a comparatively tiny number of people live in the sort of environments that require the added traction and surety that AWD provides. Also, most Australian consumers seeking AWD tend to go for smaller SUVs, since they are easier to get in and out of, offer a higher seating position and generally enjoy better resale values. On the flipside, SUVs cost more to buy and run, are not as stable at increased speeds due to their higher centre of gravity and are larger to manoeuvre in tighter parking spots than a small hatchback. The Subaru Impreza remains the least expensive small AWD hatchback you can buy new, as well as the sole mainstream-branded model starting at under $30,000. However, while the latest-generation Impreza launched in 2016 it's a huge improvement over previous iterations (with service intervals finally extended to 12 months/12,500km), there are a few more compelling alternatives in small crossovers – that is, the in-between segment between small cars and SUVs; they boast a few extra centimetres of ground clearance without the bulk. Note only a few crossovers offer AWD as an option. A recent stint in the new Impreza-derived XV 2.0L Hybrid revealed it to be a powerful and economical crossover with excellent handling and road-holding capabilities. The same applies to the Mazda3-based CX-30 AWD, the Toyota C-HR 1.2L-turbo AWD and Volkswagen T-Roc 140TSI 4Motion - though none are as frugal as the Subaru. If you're not sold on the idea of an crossover AWD and prefer a small AWD hatchback, then your only other option is to stretch to premium European hatchbacks like the Mercedes-Benz A250 4Matic, BMW M135i xDrive, Audi A3 quattro and Volkswagen Golf R. But all generally cost upwards of $60,000 drive-away - and that's before some of the more desirable options fitted. Finally, unless you are travelling hundreds of kilometres ever week, there is probably no benefit choosing diesel over petrol, as the former fuel is dirtier for the environment and not as quiet and refined as the latter. Additionally, diesels are falling out of favour with buyers due to their harmful emissions, and most companies are switching to petrol/electric hybrids as a solution. Again, this means the Subaru XV Hybrid AWD. A long response we know, Jan, but we hope this helps.

Subaru Impreza 2008: Good price range

It would depend on which variant it is, but it’s very low kilometres for its age, which would go in its favour. I would suggest a price of $8,000 - $10,000.

What car should I buy?

The Camry wins on reliability and fuel consumption, but carries the highest price; the Subaru is the least expensive but has the highest fuel consumption ad the lowest resale, while the Kia sits in the middle. The Kia is good value-for-money. If fuel consumption is your priority go for the Camry, if not go for the Kia.

Subaru Impreza 2017: What's a good replacement?

One to try is the Ford Focus; it has a rear view camera, GPS, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and fits within your budget.

What is the cheapest Subaru?

The cheapest new Subaru is the Impreza 2.0i 4D Sedan listed at $22,690. For more info on the latest models, check out our pricing and specs page, and you'll find all Subaru reviews and news here.

Subaru Impreza 2011: Fitting out exhaust, custom lights and body kit

I wouldn’t buy them without doing some homework to make sure they would suit your car. Find a Subaru specialist mechanic, one who can advise on performance options, and check with them.

Subaru Impreza 2010: Can the RS fit a Holden LS1 engine?

It won’t fit without a lot of engineering. If you seriously want to do it you will need to talk to a qualified engineer recognised by Vicroads, and have a large amount of money at your disposal.

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Subaru Impreza 2005 Problems

No car is perfect, but we've gathered everything relating to the Subaru Impreza 2005 reliability here to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

Used Subaru Impreza review: 2000-2015

19 Jan 2016 · by Ewan Kennedy

Ewan Kennedy reviews the Subaru Impreza from 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015 as a used buy.

Used Subaru Impreza review: 2000-2013

11 Aug 2014 · by Ewan Kennedy

Subaru Impreza is a small-medium car imported from Japan and one that has a well-deserved reputation for long life and high resale ratings. Subarus in general give the feeling they are designed by ...

Subaru Impreza 2005: GL front differential shudder

Answered by CarsGuide 21 Dec 2012

They are known to wear, but you need to have them properly assessed to confirm that the problem is with the diff. The prices quoted by the Subaru dealer would appear to be reasonable, and their diagnosis also seems reasonable, so I would be taking the car to them before I had a new diff fitted.

Transmission

Used Subaru Impreza review: 1998-2005

10 Jul 2009 · by Graham Smith

Think Impreza and you’ll most likely think of WRX, the red-hot rally-bred car that redefined affordable performance in the 1990s, but the Impreza is much more than that. The Impreza, on which the WRX ...

Subaru Impreza 2005: Can a WRX be converted to LPG?

Answered by CarsGuide 18 Sep 2008

THE short answer is yes, but it might not be all that easy. There is no technical reason why it can't be done successfully, but you need to find an approved kit with emission compliance and an installer experienced in doing the conversion. I would talk to WRX specialists and get their opinion.

Engine

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Subaru Impreza 2005 Problems

Used Subaru Impreza review: 2000-2015

Used Subaru Impreza review: 2000-2013

Subaru Impreza 2005: GL front differential shudder

Used Subaru Impreza review: 1998-2005

Subaru Impreza 2005: Can a WRX be converted to LPG?

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