2016 Subaru Impreza Sport: Reviews & Buying Guide

by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever thought about cruising in a 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport? Let's dive deep into this sporty little number and see what makes it tick. We'll cover everything from its performance and features to what the critics and everyday drivers have to say. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a comprehensive review of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport, exploring its ins and outs, and helping you decide if this car is the right fit for your lifestyle. This review is tailored to give you a detailed understanding of the vehicle, so you'll be well-informed before making any decisions. We'll be looking at everything from the engine's performance to the infotainment system, making sure you get a complete picture. So, let's explore all the amazing features and aspects of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport.

Overview of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport

Alright, guys, let's start with a general overview. The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is essentially a sporty trim level of the fourth-generation Impreza. Known for its standard all-wheel drive, the Impreza Sport offers a blend of practicality and driving fun. It's a compact car that’s designed to handle a variety of driving conditions, making it a popular choice, especially in regions with inclement weather. The Impreza Sport comes in both sedan and five-door hatchback body styles, giving buyers options to fit their needs. The hatchback, in particular, provides a generous cargo area, making it ideal for those needing extra space. Key features of the Sport trim typically include upgraded wheels, sport-tuned suspension, and unique interior accents that enhance its appeal. This model year also saw the continuation of Subaru's commitment to safety, with available features that increased the Impreza's appeal to safety-conscious drivers. Now, let's get into some specs. Under the hood, the 2016 Impreza Sport usually packs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering a decent amount of power for everyday driving. The engine is mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). And, of course, the all-wheel-drive system is standard, giving it an edge in terms of traction and handling. It's a reliable and efficient car and is well-regarded for its fuel economy, making it a practical choice for daily commutes and longer trips. The Impreza Sport's design is both functional and stylish, ensuring it stands out on the road. The 2016 Impreza Sport is a solid choice. It offers good value for money, combining Subaru's renowned all-wheel-drive system with a sporty aesthetic. It's a great choice for individuals or families looking for a versatile and reliable car.

Performance and Handling

Let’s talk about how the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport actually drives. The Impreza Sport is not designed to be a high-performance vehicle, but it provides a balanced driving experience that is well-suited for daily use. The standard all-wheel-drive system is a standout feature, offering excellent grip and stability, particularly in challenging weather conditions such as snow or rain. This enhances both safety and driver confidence. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine provides adequate power for most driving situations. While it might not win any races, it offers good fuel efficiency and sufficient acceleration for city driving and highway cruising. The available CVT (continuously variable transmission) contributes to smooth and efficient power delivery, although some drivers may prefer the feel of the five-speed manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience. The Sport trim typically includes a sport-tuned suspension, which enhances handling and reduces body roll compared to the base Impreza models. This makes the Impreza Sport more fun to drive, with better responsiveness in corners and a more controlled ride. Steering is generally responsive and provides decent feedback, making the car easy to maneuver in both urban and open-road settings. The Impreza Sport offers a comfortable ride. The suspension is tuned to provide a balance between comfort and sportiness, ensuring that passengers are not jostled around too much, even on less-than-perfect road surfaces. Noise and vibration levels are well-managed, contributing to a pleasant driving environment. Overall, the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is a competent and enjoyable car to drive. Its blend of all-wheel-drive capability, comfortable ride, and responsive handling makes it a versatile choice. For those seeking a vehicle that can handle various driving conditions with ease, the Impreza Sport is a solid contender. Its performance characteristics make it a great option for everyday commutes, weekend getaways, and anything in between.

Interior and Features

Let's move inside, shall we? The interior of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is where you'll spend most of your time. The interior design of the Impreza Sport is functional and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality over lavishness. The materials used are of decent quality, though some hard plastics are noticeable. The Sport trim often includes upgraded interior accents, such as contrasting stitching, that add a touch of sportiness to the cabin. The seats are generally comfortable and offer good support, making long drives more pleasant. The Impreza Sport provides ample space for front-seat occupants. The rear seats offer sufficient legroom and headroom, making it suitable for carrying passengers, though taller adults might find the space a bit tight on longer journeys. The five-door hatchback version has a particularly versatile cargo area, with a decent amount of storage space. The rear seats can fold down to expand the cargo capacity, making it easy to accommodate larger items. The infotainment system in the 2016 Impreza Sport typically includes a touchscreen display, which handles audio and other functions. Features like Bluetooth connectivity and USB ports are usually standard, providing convenient options for connecting devices and enjoying media on the go. Higher trim levels might include upgraded audio systems and additional tech features. The Impreza Sport also offers a range of safety features. These might include a rearview camera, which aids in parking and maneuvering. Available safety features such as blind-spot detection and lane departure warning may be included in higher trim levels or optional packages, enhancing the safety of the vehicle. The interior of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is designed to provide a comfortable and functional driving experience. It balances practicality with features that enhance convenience and safety, making it a well-rounded vehicle for everyday use. Its thoughtful design and available features make it a comfortable and enjoyable place to be, whether you're commuting to work or taking a road trip. The emphasis on practicality and usability makes the Impreza Sport a great option. It offers a well-designed interior, with all the essential features you'd expect in a modern car.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a huge deal, right? The 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport, like all Impreza models, comes with a solid reputation for safety. Subaru has a long-standing commitment to safety. The 2016 Impreza Sport includes a range of standard and available safety features to protect occupants. Standard safety features often include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control, and a suite of airbags, including front, side, and curtain airbags. These features provide a fundamental level of protection in various driving scenarios. The Impreza Sport often includes a rearview camera, which enhances visibility when backing up, reducing the risk of collisions. Higher trim levels and optional packages may include advanced safety technologies, such as blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features provide added safety, assisting the driver in avoiding potential hazards and reducing the risk of accidents. In crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2016 Subaru Impreza often scores high ratings, receiving 'Good' ratings in most categories. These ratings indicate that the vehicle performs well in crash scenarios, providing good protection to occupants. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also conducts crash tests, and the 2016 Impreza Sport generally earns favorable ratings from this organization as well. These ratings are a testament to the vehicle's structural integrity and the effectiveness of its safety systems. Standard all-wheel drive is a significant safety advantage, particularly in challenging driving conditions. All-wheel drive enhances traction and stability, reducing the risk of skidding and loss of control in inclement weather such as snow or rain. The combination of standard safety features, available advanced technologies, and good crash test ratings makes the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport a safe choice for drivers and passengers. Subaru's focus on safety is evident in the vehicle's design and features, making it a reliable option for those who prioritize safety on the road. The Impreza Sport provides a safe and secure driving experience, with safety features and good crash test ratings. It makes it a reliable choice for drivers.

Pros and Cons of the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport

Alright, let’s get down to the brass tacks: the good and the not-so-good.

Pros:

  • Standard All-Wheel Drive: This is a big win, especially in areas with rain or snow. It provides excellent traction and enhances stability.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Impreza Sport offers good fuel economy for its class, making it a cost-effective choice for daily driving.
  • Versatile Body Styles: Available in both sedan and five-door hatchback versions, it provides options to suit different needs.
  • Good Safety Ratings: The Impreza consistently scores well in safety tests, providing peace of mind.
  • User-Friendly Interior: The interior is practical and easy to navigate, with essential features within easy reach.

Cons:

  • Engine Power: The 2.0-liter engine provides adequate power, but it might feel underpowered compared to some competitors.
  • Interior Materials: While functional, the interior materials aren’t the most luxurious.
  • Infotainment System: The infotainment system might be dated compared to newer models.
  • Road Noise: Some drivers have reported noticeable road noise at highway speeds.
  • Ride Quality: While comfortable, the ride can feel a bit firm at times, especially on rough roads.

Common Problems and Reliability

Let’s address the elephant in the room: potential issues. While the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is generally considered reliable, it's helpful to be aware of some common problems and reliability trends. Owners have reported certain issues. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) can sometimes experience issues, such as shuddering or jerky behavior. Regular maintenance and proper fluid changes can help mitigate these problems. The engine, although reliable, has been known to consume a bit of oil, especially in older models or under certain driving conditions. Checking the oil levels regularly is crucial. Some owners have reported issues with the infotainment system, including software glitches, slow response times, and connectivity problems. Subaru has addressed some of these issues with software updates. Overall, the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is considered to have decent reliability. Many owners report a positive experience with the vehicle. Regularly servicing the vehicle and keeping up with maintenance, such as oil changes and fluid checks, is essential to keep the car running smoothly. Researching any specific issues that might be common to the vehicle and addressing them promptly will help ensure its long-term reliability. Checking online forums, reading owner reviews, and consulting with a trusted mechanic can provide valuable insights into potential problems and how to address them. The Impreza Sport has good reliability. The owner should be aware of potential issues.

Should You Buy a 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport?

So, is the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport the right car for you? If you’re looking for a compact car that prioritizes safety, all-wheel-drive capability, and practicality, the Impreza Sport is definitely worth considering. It's an excellent choice if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions or if you frequently drive on roads that require extra traction. The Impreza Sport offers a comfortable ride. Its fuel efficiency makes it a cost-effective option for daily commutes and longer trips. If you need more cargo space, the five-door hatchback model is a great choice. If you prioritize performance and luxury, you might want to look at other options. The Impreza Sport's engine isn't the most powerful, and the interior, while functional, might not be as luxurious. Comparing it with other cars in its class is vital. Consider your budget. Look at models with similar features and compare their prices and reviews. If safety is your top priority, you'll be pleased. It has good crash test ratings and a host of safety features. The Impreza Sport can be a great choice. Considering your personal needs, budget, and priorities will help you decide if the 2016 Subaru Impreza Sport is right for you. It's a versatile, reliable, and safe car. It provides a well-rounded driving experience.