Of course, with VDC, Subaru wants to help less experienced drivers avoid the worst. The good news is that, for seasoned pilots who are used to work without traction and stability control, a small switch at the bottom of the center stack makes it possible to deactivate the system. Just hold it for a few seconds and you'll enjoy all the freedom you want with your sporty ride!

Roomier interior
Compared to the previous model, the 2008 Impreza benefits from a stiffer chassis and a 9.5-cm longer wheelbase. The improvement is also felt inside, where rear passengers enjoy more legroom and knee room. While the old Impreza could only accommodate two adults and two kids, the new one can comfortably sit four adults.

The dashboard looks modern and most of the controls are easily within reach. In fact, overall ergonomics are commendable. My only complaint stems from the fact that you can't adjust the heating temperature below 20 degrees Celcius.

The dashboard looks modern and most of the controls are easily within reach.

Standard features include cloth-covered heated front seats -- a great decision by Subaru. Canadian drivers who live in colder regions will find winters a bit less rigorous.

Versatile trunk
The trunk has a 320-liter capacity (whereas the Lancer's offers 328 liters). When you fold the 60/40 split rear seatbacks, you get more versatility. Long and cumbersome items will fit inside, making this compact sedan ever more functional. Besides, the trunk opening is fairly wide and deep. Interestingly, the sedan's cargo floor is deeper than the 5-door model. Of course, the latter remains best suited for loading larger items, with four times more cargo room behind the front seats.

In the end, buyers will select the sporty WRX for its true Japanese driving dynamics. Safe handling, spirited performances and a rather comprehensive list of features make it an attractive car, one that remains affordable. I'm anxious to see how Mitsubishi will position the new Lancer Ralliart. One thing's for sure: Subaru is feeling the heat in the sport compact sedan market.

The trunk has a 320-liter capacity.

Photo Credit : Luc Gagné