/ 28 May 2009

The perfect hatch, by any standard

The standard features on the Subaru Impreza WRX might just be its strongest points.

Not that the racy 2.5-litre engine or the confidence-boosting all-wheel drive aren’t strong plusses, but features such as ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, active brake assist, climate control, cruise control, multi-function steering, MP3-compatible radio with iPod jack, xenon headlights, six airbags and pre-tensioned seatbelts linked to warning indicators make this hatch more than just a boy-racer .

If you’re looking for a value-for-money hatch, the WRX is definitely worth looking into.

Model: Subaru Impreza WRX
Price: R269 000 (new price)
Engine: 2.5-litre turbocharged
Tech: 169kW, 320Nm
Top speed: 209kph, 0-100kph in 5.8s
Tank capacity: 60 litres
Services: 15 000km
Odo at start: 7 030km
Odo now: 8 184km
Fuel input: 151.9 litres
Fuel cost: R997.23
Other costs: None —