Hey guys! Let's dive into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus, a car that blends practicality, safety, and a touch of fun into a neat little package. If you're in the market for a reliable compact car with all-wheel drive, this might just be the one for you. We’re going to explore everything that makes the 2018 Impreza Premium Plus a compelling choice, covering its features, performance, and overall value. Buckle up; it's going to be a detailed ride!

Overview of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus stands out in the compact car segment, primarily due to its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. Unlike many competitors that offer AWD as an optional upgrade, Subaru includes it as a standard feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in various driving conditions. This makes the Impreza a particularly attractive option for those living in areas with inclement weather or challenging road conditions. Beyond its AWD capability, the Premium Plus trim adds a host of desirable features, enhancing both comfort and convenience for drivers and passengers alike. The exterior design of the 2018 Impreza carries Subaru's signature understated yet functional aesthetic. It features a clean, modern look with a well-proportioned body, a distinctive grille, and stylish headlights. The Premium Plus trim often includes additional exterior enhancements such as alloy wheels, fog lights, and body-colored mirrors, adding a touch of sophistication to its overall appearance. Inside, the Impreza Premium Plus offers a well-appointed cabin with comfortable seating, intuitive controls, and a range of tech features. The use of quality materials throughout the interior contributes to a pleasant and refined driving experience. Subaru's commitment to safety is evident in the Impreza's design and features. The car comes standard with a suite of advanced safety technologies, including a rearview camera, antilock brakes, stability control, and multiple airbags. Higher trims, like the Premium Plus, often include additional safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control, further enhancing driver confidence and peace of mind. The 2018 Impreza Premium Plus is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers adequate performance for daily driving. While it may not be the most powerful engine in its class, it provides a good balance of fuel efficiency and responsiveness. The engine is paired with either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT), depending on the driver's preference. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a compelling package for buyers seeking a reliable, safe, and well-equipped compact car with the added benefit of standard all-wheel drive. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and advanced features makes it a standout choice in a competitive market segment.

Key Features of the Premium Plus Model

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes the Premium Plus trim special. This isn’t just your base model Impreza; it’s got some extra goodies that make daily driving a lot more enjoyable. For starters, you often get upgraded infotainment systems. We’re talking about larger touchscreens, usually around 8 inches, which makes navigating menus and using apps like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto a breeze. These systems also tend to have better resolution and faster response times compared to the base models. Connectivity is key these days, and the Premium Plus doesn’t disappoint. Expect to find multiple USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, and sometimes even a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot. This ensures that you and your passengers can stay connected on the go, whether you’re streaming music, using navigation apps, or just browsing the web. On the comfort front, the Premium Plus often includes features like heated front seats, which are a lifesaver during those cold winter months. You might also find a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, adding a touch of luxury to the interior. Automatic climate control is another common feature, allowing you to set your desired temperature and let the car do the rest. Safety is always a priority, and the Premium Plus typically comes with additional driver-assistance features. This can include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Subaru’s EyeSight system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. These features can significantly enhance your awareness and help prevent accidents. On the exterior, the Premium Plus often sports alloy wheels, fog lights, and body-colored mirrors, giving it a more refined and stylish look compared to the base model. You might also find a sunroof or moonroof, allowing you to let in some natural light and enjoy the open air. Practicality is also enhanced with features like a cargo cover, which helps keep your belongings hidden and secure in the rear cargo area. Overall, the Premium Plus trim level is designed to offer a significant upgrade over the base model, providing a more comfortable, convenient, and safer driving experience. It’s a great option for those who want a few extra features without breaking the bank.

Performance and Handling

When you're behind the wheel, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a balanced driving experience. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces around 152 horsepower, which is adequate for everyday driving. It’s not going to win any races, but it 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). The CVT is the more common choice, and it prioritizes fuel efficiency. It can feel a bit sluggish at times, especially when you need to accelerate quickly, but it does a good job of keeping the engine in its optimal power range. One of the Impreza's standout features is its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in slippery conditions like rain, snow, or ice. The AWD system helps the Impreza feel more planted and confident on the road, giving you a greater sense of control. The handling is generally good, with the Impreza feeling relatively nimble and responsive. The steering is light and precise, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. The suspension does a good job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, providing a comfortable ride for both the driver and passengers. The Impreza isn't particularly sporty, but it's not meant to be. It's designed to be a practical and reliable daily driver, and it excels in that role. The AWD system and comfortable ride make it a great choice for those who live in areas with challenging weather conditions. Fuel efficiency is also a strong point. The Impreza gets respectable gas mileage, especially with the CVT. You can expect to see around 28 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway, which is competitive for a compact car with AWD. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus offers a balanced and capable driving experience. It's not the fastest or most exciting car on the road, but it's practical, reliable, and comfortable. The AWD system is a major selling point, and the fuel efficiency is also a plus. If you're looking for a compact car that can handle a variety of driving conditions, the Impreza is definitely worth considering.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus, you'll find a cabin designed with comfort and technology in mind. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, making them suitable for long drives. The Premium Plus trim often includes heated front seats, which are a welcome addition during colder months. The interior materials are of decent quality, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas. While it's not a luxury car, the Impreza offers a comfortable and inviting environment. The dashboard layout is clean and straightforward, with controls that are easy to reach and operate. The infotainment system is a key feature, and the Premium Plus typically comes with a larger touchscreen display, usually around 8 inches. This system supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone. The touchscreen is responsive and the menus are intuitive, making it easy to navigate through the various functions. Bluetooth connectivity is standard, allowing you to make hands-free calls and stream music wirelessly. You'll also find multiple USB ports for charging your devices. The audio system in the Premium Plus is generally good, providing clear and balanced sound. Some models may even come with an upgraded sound system for an enhanced listening experience. The Impreza offers ample space for both front and rear passengers. Even taller adults will find enough headroom and legroom in the back seats. The rear seats can also be folded down to create more cargo space, making it easier to transport larger items. The cargo area itself is a decent size, providing enough room for groceries, luggage, or other gear. Visibility is generally good, thanks to the large windows and relatively thin pillars. A rearview camera is standard, making it easier to back up and park. Higher trims may also include blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, which can further enhance your awareness of your surroundings. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is a comfortable and well-equipped space. The combination of supportive seats, user-friendly technology, and ample space makes it a great choice for daily commuting and longer road trips.

Safety Features and Ratings

When it comes to safety, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus really shines. Subaru has a reputation for building safe vehicles, and the Impreza is no exception. The car comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, designed to protect you and your passengers in the event of a collision. Standard safety features include antilock brakes, stability control, traction control, and a full complement of airbags. These features work together to help you maintain control of the vehicle and minimize the risk of injury in a crash. The Premium Plus trim often includes additional driver-assistance features that can help prevent accidents. One of the most notable is Subaru’s EyeSight system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control can automatically adjust your speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you. Lane departure warning alerts you if you start to drift out of your lane. Automatic emergency braking can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes to help avoid or mitigate the impact. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert are also commonly included in the Premium Plus trim. Blind-spot monitoring alerts you if there's a vehicle in your blind spot, while rear cross-traffic alert warns you of approaching vehicles when you're backing up. In terms of crash test ratings, the 2018 Subaru Impreza has performed exceptionally well. It has earned top ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The NHTSA has given the Impreza a 5-star overall safety rating, while the IIHS has named it a Top Safety Pick. These ratings demonstrate Subaru’s commitment to safety and provide peace of mind for drivers and passengers. The Impreza's strong safety performance is due in part to its robust construction and advanced safety technologies. The car is designed to absorb and dissipate energy in a crash, helping to protect the occupants. The advanced safety features can help prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is a very safe car. Its comprehensive suite of safety features and excellent crash test ratings make it a top choice for safety-conscious buyers.

Pros and Cons of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus so you can get a clear picture of what you're dealing with. On the pros side, the standard all-wheel drive (AWD) is a huge advantage, especially if you live in an area with snow or rain. It gives you extra traction and confidence on slippery roads. The fuel economy is also pretty good for a car with AWD, so you won't be breaking the bank at the gas pump. The interior is comfortable and well-designed, with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The infotainment system is user-friendly, and the Premium Plus trim comes with features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are great for staying connected on the go. Safety is another strong point, with the Impreza earning top marks in crash tests and coming standard with a lot of advanced safety features. Now, let's talk about the cons. The engine is adequate for daily driving, but it's not exactly thrilling. If you're looking for a sporty car, this isn't it. The CVT transmission can also feel a bit sluggish at times, especially when you need to accelerate quickly. While the interior is comfortable, it's not the most luxurious in its class. Some of the materials feel a bit cheap, and the design is fairly basic. The styling of the Impreza is also a bit bland. It's not an ugly car, but it's not going to turn heads either. It's a fairly understated design that blends in with the crowd. Another potential downside is the price. The Premium Plus trim is more expensive than the base model, and it can get pricey if you start adding options. You'll need to weigh the cost against the features to decide if it's worth it. Overall, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus is a solid choice for a compact car. It's safe, reliable, and practical, with the added benefit of standard AWD. However, it's not the most exciting car on the road, and the CVT transmission can be a bit of a letdown. If you prioritize safety, reliability, and all-weather capability, the Impreza is definitely worth considering. But if you're looking for a sporty or luxurious car, you might want to look elsewhere.

Is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus Right for You?

So, is the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus the right car for you? Let's consider a few scenarios to help you decide. If you live in an area with harsh weather conditions, like snow or heavy rain, the Impreza's standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system is a major selling point. It provides enhanced traction and stability, making it easier to navigate slippery roads. If you value safety, the Impreza is an excellent choice. It has earned top marks in crash tests and comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including advanced driver-assistance systems. If you're looking for a practical and reliable daily driver, the Impreza fits the bill. It's comfortable, fuel-efficient, and has plenty of space for passengers and cargo. However, if you're looking for a sporty car with a lot of power, the Impreza might not be the best fit. The engine is adequate for everyday driving, but it's not particularly exciting. If you prioritize luxury and high-end features, you might be disappointed with the Impreza's interior. While it's comfortable and well-designed, it's not the most luxurious in its class. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the 2018 Subaru Impreza Premium Plus depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value safety, reliability, and all-weather capability, the Impreza is definitely worth considering. But if you're looking for a sporty or luxurious car, you might want to look elsewhere. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to take the car for a test drive and compare it to other models in its class. This will help you get a better feel for the car and determine if it's the right fit for you. Consider your budget, your driving needs, and your personal preferences when making your decision. With careful consideration, you can find the perfect car for your lifestyle.