Hey guys! Let's dive into the world of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan. This car isn't just a way to get from point A to point B; it's a reliable, practical, and surprisingly fun choice for anyone looking for a compact sedan. We're going to cover everything from its performance and fuel efficiency to its interior features and overall reliability. Whether you're considering buying one or just curious, you're in the right place!

Overview of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan

The 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan is part of the fourth generation of Imprezas, known for blending fuel efficiency with the standard Subaru symmetrical all-wheel drive. This generation, introduced in 2012, aimed to provide a more refined driving experience while maintaining Subaru's reputation for reliability and practicality. The 2014 model year brought some minor updates, enhancing its appeal in the competitive compact sedan market.

Key Features

The 2014 Impreza Sedan comes with several key features that make it a standout choice:

• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD): Standard on all Impreza models, providing excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions.
• Fuel Efficiency: Impressive fuel economy for an AWD vehicle, thanks to its efficient engine and design.
• Spacious Interior: Comfortable seating and ample cargo space for a compact sedan.
• Reliability: Subaru is known for its reliability, and the Impreza is no exception.
• Safety Features: Equipped with a range of safety features, including airbags, anti-lock brakes, and stability control.

Target Audience

The Impreza is perfect for a wide range of drivers. It appeals to those who need a reliable daily driver, especially in areas with challenging weather conditions. It's also a great fit for small families or anyone who appreciates the added security of all-wheel drive without sacrificing fuel economy. Plus, its affordability makes it an attractive option for first-time car buyers or anyone on a budget.

Performance and Handling

Let's get into how the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan performs on the road. Under the hood, you'll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While it might not sound like a powerhouse, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving. The engine is designed to offer a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency, which is one of the Impreza's strong suits.

Engine and Transmission Options

The 2014 Impreza Sedan comes with two transmission options:

• 5-Speed Manual Transmission: For those who enjoy a more engaging driving experience, the 5-speed manual offers precise shifts and good control.
• Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT): The CVT provides smooth and seamless acceleration, optimizing fuel efficiency. It's a popular choice for drivers who prioritize comfort and ease of use.

Driving Experience

Thanks to the standard symmetrical all-wheel drive, the 2014 Impreza Sedan offers exceptional grip and stability. Whether you're driving on dry pavement, wet roads, or even snow, the Impreza feels planted and confident. The steering is responsive and provides good feedback, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road without feeling overly soft.

Acceleration and Braking

Acceleration is decent for a compact sedan, with the Impreza reaching 0-60 mph in around 9 seconds. While it's not the quickest car in its class, it's more than adequate for daily commuting and highway driving. The braking performance is also solid, with the Impreza providing confident and consistent stopping power. The anti-lock brakes (ABS) help prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, enhancing safety.

Fuel Efficiency

One of the standout features of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan is its impressive fuel efficiency, especially considering it comes standard with all-wheel drive. The Impreza achieves excellent mileage for its class, making it an economical choice for daily driving and long road trips. Let's break down the numbers.

EPA Ratings

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan gets:

• 27 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 30 mpg combined with the CVT
• 25 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 28 mpg combined with the 5-speed manual

These numbers are quite impressive for an AWD vehicle and are competitive with many front-wheel-drive compact sedans. The CVT helps maximize fuel efficiency by keeping the engine in its optimal power range.

Real-World Fuel Economy

Of course, real-world fuel economy can vary depending on driving conditions, habits, and maintenance. However, many owners report achieving numbers close to the EPA estimates. Factors that can affect fuel economy include:

• Driving Style: Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, can decrease fuel economy.
• Road Conditions: Stop-and-go traffic and hilly terrain can also reduce fuel efficiency.
• Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and tire inflation, can help maintain optimal fuel economy.

Fuel-Saving Tips

To maximize fuel efficiency in your 2014 Impreza Sedan, consider the following tips:

• Drive Smoothly: Avoid sudden acceleration and braking.
• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Underinflated tires can reduce fuel economy.
• Reduce Idling: Avoid idling for extended periods.
• Use Cruise Control: On the highway, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and improve fuel efficiency.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan, you'll find a well-designed and functional interior. While it may not be the most luxurious in its class, it offers a comfortable and practical space for both the driver and passengers. The focus is on usability and durability, with easy-to-use controls and quality materials.

Design and Materials

The interior design is straightforward and uncluttered. The dashboard is logically laid out, with all the essential controls within easy reach. The materials used are durable and well-assembled, giving the interior a solid feel. While there are some hard plastics, they are textured to provide a more premium look and feel.

Seating and Space

The seats in the 2014 Impreza Sedan are comfortable and supportive, making them suitable for long drives. The front seats offer ample headroom and legroom, even for taller drivers. The rear seats are also reasonably spacious, with enough room for two adults to sit comfortably. Three adults in the back might feel a bit cramped on longer journeys.

Features and Technology

The 2014 Impreza Sedan comes with a range of features and technology, depending on the trim level. Standard features include:

• Air Conditioning: Keeps the cabin cool and comfortable.
• Power Windows and Locks: Convenient and easy to use.
• Tilt and Telescoping Steering Wheel: Allows drivers to find a comfortable driving position.
• Four-Speaker Audio System: Provides decent sound quality for basic audio needs.

Higher trim levels add features like:

• Touchscreen Infotainment System: Offers smartphone integration and access to various apps.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Allows for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
• Upgraded Audio System: Provides better sound quality and more speakers.
• Heated Front Seats: Adds comfort in cold weather.

Cargo Space

The 2014 Impreza Sedan offers a generous amount of cargo space for a compact sedan. The trunk provides 12 cubic feet of space, which is enough for groceries, luggage, or other everyday items. The rear seats can also be folded down to create even more cargo room, making it easier to transport larger items.

Safety Features

When it comes to safety, the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan doesn't disappoint. It comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. Subaru has always prioritized safety, and the Impreza reflects this commitment.

Standard Safety Features

The 2014 Impreza Sedan includes the following standard safety features:

• Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lockup during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
• Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): Helps prevent skidding by applying brakes and reducing engine power when needed.
• Traction Control System (TCS): Limits wheelspin during acceleration, improving traction.
• Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags provide protection in the event of a collision.
• Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): Alerts the driver when tire pressure is low.

Crash Test Ratings

The 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan has been tested by both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Here are the results:

• NHTSA: The 2014 Impreza Sedan received a 5-star overall safety rating, the highest possible score.
• IIHS: The 2014 Impreza Sedan was named a Top Safety Pick+, earning good ratings in all crash tests.

These ratings demonstrate the Impreza's ability to protect occupants in a variety of crash scenarios. The combination of active and passive safety features makes it a safe choice for drivers and passengers.

Reliability and Maintenance

Subaru has a reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan is no exception. However, like any car, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Let's take a closer look at the Impreza's reliability and maintenance requirements.

Common Issues

While the 2014 Impreza Sedan is generally reliable, there are a few common issues to be aware of:

• Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption, particularly in earlier models. Regularly checking the oil level and topping it off as needed can help prevent engine damage.
• CVT Issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the CVT, such as hesitation or rough shifting. Regular CVT fluid changes can help prevent these issues.
• Wheel Bearing Problems: Wheel bearing failure is another potential issue. Listen for unusual noises, such as humming or grinding, which could indicate a problem.

Maintenance Schedule

Following the recommended maintenance schedule is crucial for keeping your 2014 Impreza Sedan in good condition. Here are some key maintenance items:

• Oil Changes: Every 6,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first.
• Tire Rotations: Every 6,000 miles.
• Air Filter Replacement: Every 12,000 miles.
• Spark Plug Replacement: Every 60,000 miles.
• CVT Fluid Change: Every 30,000 miles.

Long-Term Reliability

With proper maintenance, the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan can provide years of reliable service. Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel drive system is known for its durability, and the engine is generally robust. By addressing any issues promptly and following the recommended maintenance schedule, you can keep your Impreza running smoothly for many years to come.

Pros and Cons

To sum it all up, here’s a quick look at the pros and cons of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan:

Pros

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• Good Fuel Economy: Impressive fuel efficiency for an AWD vehicle.
• Spacious Interior: Comfortable seating and ample cargo space.
• Reliable: Subaru is known for its reliability.
• Safe: Excellent crash test ratings and a range of safety features.

Cons

• Engine Performance: The engine is adequate but not particularly powerful.
• Interior Quality: Some hard plastics and a basic design.
• Potential Oil Consumption: Some owners have reported excessive oil consumption.
• CVT Issues: Some owners have experienced problems with the CVT.

Conclusion

The 2014 Subaru Impreza Sedan is a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient, and safe compact sedan. Its standard all-wheel drive sets it apart from the competition, providing added confidence in all weather conditions. While it may not be the most luxurious or powerful car in its class, it offers a practical and dependable driving experience. If you prioritize reliability, safety, and fuel economy, the 2014 Impreza Sedan is definitely worth considering. Happy driving, folks!