Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza line-up ranges from sporty to outrageous to practical.The practical and innovative Outback Sport remains, but the cheap, value-oriented models are long gone.

The Impreza 2.5 RS is at the sporty end of the spectrum.The 2.5 RS is an affordable sports sedan, fun to drive hard with stable handling and a growling boxer engine.The RS is comparable to other sporty compact sedans, though its brilliant all-wheel-drive system adds to its price.The Impreza TS Sport Wagon combines the practicality of a wagon with the sporty driving experience of the RS.

The best-selling Impreza, however, is the outrageous WRX.Japanese manufacturers have, until recently, been understanably reluctant to offer so-called homologation specials because rallying was about as popular in America as cricket.That's all changed now, perhaps due to rally-based video games or coverage of World Rally Championship events on the Speed channel.

Even more outrageous and into certifiable territory is the WRX STi.

On the practical side is the Impreza Outback Sport.Powered by the sporty 2.5 RS engine, the Outback Sport features a raised suspension for driving on unpaved roads.Its cargo area is trimmed to offer the utility of a small SUV.Rugged-looking design cues add an outdoorsy look.Outback Sport is very practical yet fun to drive.

Fresh styling in the form of new headlamps and redesigned front fascias with a lower hood distinguishes the entire 2004 Impreza lineup.Suspension tuning and brakes have been improved on all 2004 Impreza models for a smoother ride quality, more responsive handling, and improved braking performance.