Sedan or hatchback
Both models offer fold-down rear seatbacks, which is good, but the trunk opening of the sedan is rather small. The hatchback, on the other hand, makes it easier and more convenient to load various objects, including cumbersome items. In addition, the sedan's lack of a rear window wiper reduces visibility when it rains.

Behind the wheel
The comprehensive cockpit will satisfy any driver: the tilt/telescopic steering wheel, the nicely-sculpted driver's seat, the well-positioned gauges and the full assortment of controls allow you to feel comfortable and connected to the road. In terms of visibility, the A-pillars are relatively obtrusive and require some getting used to. The decently-sized mirrors do a good job of limiting blind spots, while the multi-reflector halogen headlights have quite a sizeable range. The wipers also help improve visibility. What's more, the Impreza WRX benefits from a windshield wiper de-icer, a pretty useful feature to tackle winter.

A high performing though thirsty engine.

Flexible turbo
As for power, there are no changes to report about. The 224-hp, 2.5L, 4-cylinder turbocharged boxer engine is still a lively performer. What impressed me the most was how smooth and linear the power delivery was. Subaru engineers know their engines like the back of their hand and they brilliantly calculated the pressure required by the turbo to deliver steady accelerations.

When driving the WRX, I enjoy hammering the throttle not to reach high speeds but rather to revel in feeling all this perfectly-controlled power. I never get tired of taking advantage of this marvel of machinery. Whenever I need to get myself out of a bad spot, I can rely on its civilized cavalry.

And now I understand why some young drivers are selling their WRX: they realized how often they had to stop at the gas station. Pleasure comes at a price, indeed. Sure, if you drive reasonably, the car's fuel economy will hover around 12 L/100 km. But if you're a tad aggressive, you'll pay for it, as evidenced by my 20 L/100 km average.

Accelerations from 0 to 100 kph are completed in 6.35 seconds while 80-120 sprints take 5.5 seconds in third gear (or 5 seconds when shifting from second to third gear). The shifter still feels a bit too vague; the throws are too long for such a sporty car. In fact, there should be a sixth gear in the mix to enhance sportiness.

The narrow opening of the trunk makes loading items harder.