2014 Subaru Impreza: Overview
The 2014 Subaru Impreza offers a compelling blend of all-weather capability, practicality, and a refined driving experience, making it a standout choice in the compact car segment. Known for its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, the Impreza provides exceptional grip and stability in diverse weather conditions, a rarity in its class. This generation, introduced in 2012, presented a more mature and upscale design compared to its predecessors, both inside and out.
Highlights
- Engine: All 2014 Subaru Imprezas are powered by a 2.0-liter BOXER engine. This horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine delivers 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While not the most powerful in its class, it provides adequate performance for daily driving and impressive fuel efficiency. Subaru's signature BOXER engine design contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing handling and stability. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual for those who prefer a more engaging drive or a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT), which prioritizes fuel economy and smooth acceleration.
- Safety Features: Subaru is renowned for its commitment to safety, and the 2014 Impreza is no exception. Standard safety features include:
- Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD): This is the Impreza's signature feature, providing enhanced traction and stability in slippery conditions like rain, snow, and ice. It proactively distributes power to all four wheels, improving grip and reducing the risk of skidding.
- Anti-lock Braking System (ABS): Prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking, allowing the driver to maintain steering control.
- Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD): Optimizes the braking force between the front and rear wheels based on load, improving braking performance.
- Brake Assist: Automatically applies maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, shortening stopping distances.
- Vehicle Stability Control (VSC): Helps prevent loss of traction and maintains stability by automatically applying brakes to individual wheels and/or reducing engine power if it detects oversteer or understeer.
- Traction Control System (TCS): Reduces engine power and/or applies brakes to wheels that are losing traction, helping the car move forward.
- Airbags: A comprehensive suite of airbags, including front, front-side, and side-curtain airbags, provide protection for occupants in the event of a collision.
- Optional EyeSight Driver Assist Technology: Available on higher trims, this advanced system uses cameras to monitor traffic and can provide adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, and lane departure warning, further enhancing safety.
- Trim Summary: The 2014 Impreza was available in a range of trims, catering to different needs and budgets, offered in both sedan and 5-door hatchback body styles:
- 2.0i Base: The entry-level option, offering the core Subaru experience with standard AWD and essential features.
- 2.0i Premium: Builds upon the Base trim with enhanced comfort and convenience features, often including alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.
- 2.0i Sport: Adds a sportier aesthetic and often includes more premium interior appointments, such as unique seat fabric and revised suspension tuning for a slightly more engaging drive.
- 2.0i Limited: Represents the top-tier trim, offering the most luxurious features, typically including leather upholstery, heated front seats, automatic climate control, and potentially more advanced infotainment options.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Interior Quality: The cabin features a clean, functional design with good material quality for its class. The layout is intuitive and user-friendly.
- Ride Comfort: The Impreza generally offers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing road imperfections well, making it suitable for longer journeys.
- Cargo Space: The hatchback model provides excellent versatility with ample cargo space, especially when the rear seats are folded down.
What to Expect
Ownership of a 2014 Subaru Impreza typically involves a reliable and predictable experience. Subaru vehicles are generally known for their durability and longevity.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, tire rotations, and brake inspections, will be similar to other vehicles in its class. However, it's important to note that Subaru's BOXER engines and Symmetrical AWD system may have slightly different service intervals or require specialized fluids. Following the recommended maintenance schedule in the owner's manual is crucial to ensuring the longevity and optimal performance of the vehicle. Regular checks of the AWD system's fluid levels and condition are also advisable.
- Insurance: Insurance costs for the 2014 Impreza are generally competitive, though this can vary significantly based on your driving record, location, age, and the specific insurance provider. The standard AWD system can sometimes lead to slightly higher premiums compared to front-wheel-drive competitors due to its perceived benefit in reducing accident risk, but this isn't always the case.
- Fuel Economy: With the 2.0-liter engine and either transmission, the Impreza offers respectable fuel economy for an AWD vehicle. The CVT typically achieves better mileage than the manual transmission. Expect real-world fuel economy to be in the mid-to-high 20s for combined city and highway driving, with the CVT generally offering a few more miles per gallon.
Potential Considerations
While the 2014 Impreza is a well-rounded vehicle, there are a few aspects potential buyers should be aware of:
- Engine Power: The 148 horsepower output of the 2.0-liter BOXER engine is adequate for daily driving but can feel a bit sluggish when accelerating from a stop or when merging into fast-moving highway traffic. It's not a performance-oriented powertrain, and those seeking a more spirited driving experience might find it lacking.
- CVT Behavior: While generally smooth, some drivers have reported that Subaru's CVT can exhibit a droning sound under hard acceleration, a common characteristic of many CVT systems. This is more of a subjective preference than a mechanical flaw, but it's worth test-driving to see if it bothers you.
- Infotainment System: The infotainment system in the 2014 model, while functional, might feel dated by today's standards. It may lack features like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, and the touchscreen interface might not be as responsive or visually appealing as those found in newer vehicles.
- Road Noise: Some reviews have indicated that road and wind noise can be more noticeable in the Impreza's cabin at highway speeds compared to some competitors.
Overall Summary
The 2014 Subaru Impreza stands out as a highly practical and capable compact car, particularly for those who prioritize all-weather confidence. Its standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, combined with a comfortable ride and a well-built interior, makes it a sensible choice for a wide range of drivers, from commuters to those living in areas with challenging weather conditions. While its engine power may not thrill performance enthusiasts and its infotainment may feel dated, its core strengths in safety, reliability, and all-season usability solidify its position as a smart and dependable option in the used car market.
