2020 Subaru Impreza Sport: Manual Transmission Review
Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport with a manual transmission. If you're anything like me, the words 'Subaru' and 'manual' in the same sentence probably got your attention. Subaru has a reputation for building reliable, capable vehicles, and the option of a manual gearbox often appeals to driving enthusiasts who crave a more engaging experience. So, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what makes this particular Impreza tick.
Overview of the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport
The 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport represents a sweet spot in the Impreza lineup. It takes the practicality and fuel efficiency of the base model and sprinkles in some appealing sporty touches. Think of it as the Impreza that's ready for both your daily commute and a weekend adventure. Visually, the Sport trim stands out with its unique alloy wheels, subtle body-colored side spoilers, and a blacked-out grille. These elements give it a more aggressive and youthful vibe compared to the more subdued base and Premium trims. But the Sport is more than just aesthetics. It also gets a sport-tuned suspension, which aims to provide a slightly firmer and more controlled ride. Inside, you'll find unique sport cloth upholstery with red stitching, adding to the sporty ambiance. The infotainment system gets a boost too, with a larger touchscreen display and smartphone integration features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. All of these enhancements combine to create a package that's both practical and fun. The Impreza's standard all-wheel-drive system is a major selling point, providing enhanced traction and stability in various weather conditions. This makes it a great choice for those living in areas with snow, rain, or gravel roads. The Sport trim enhances this capability with its sport-tuned suspension, which helps to keep the car planted and controlled during spirited driving. The interior is well-designed and functional, with comfortable seats and intuitive controls. The rear seats offer ample legroom for passengers, and the cargo area is surprisingly spacious for a compact car. Overall, the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport is a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value for the money. It's a car that's both practical and fun to drive, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers.
The Allure of the Manual Transmission
Now, let's talk about the heart of the matter: the manual transmission. In a world increasingly dominated by automatic gearboxes, the availability of a manual in the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport is a breath of fresh air for driving enthusiasts. Why is a manual transmission so appealing? Well, it's all about engagement. With a manual, you're in complete control of the gear selection, allowing you to precisely match the engine's power output to the driving conditions. This translates to a more connected and involved driving experience. You feel more in tune with the car and the road, making even mundane trips more enjoyable. There's a certain satisfaction that comes from mastering the art of shifting gears smoothly and efficiently. It requires practice and coordination, but once you get the hang of it, it becomes second nature. For many drivers, the manual transmission is a key component of the driving experience, adding a layer of fun and excitement that's simply not available with an automatic. Beyond the fun factor, a manual transmission can also offer some practical benefits. In certain situations, it can provide better fuel economy compared to an automatic. It also gives you more control over the engine's power output, which can be useful for towing or driving in challenging terrain. While modern automatic transmissions have become incredibly sophisticated, they still can't quite match the level of control and engagement offered by a manual. The manual transmission in the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport is a well-engineered unit that provides smooth and precise shifts. The clutch is light and easy to modulate, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced drivers alike. The gear ratios are well-spaced, allowing you to make the most of the engine's power. Overall, the manual transmission is a major highlight of the Impreza Sport, adding a layer of fun and excitement to an already capable and practical car.
Driving Experience: Sporty and Engaging
Okay, let's get behind the wheel! The driving experience of the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport with the manual transmission is genuinely engaging. The sport-tuned suspension does a decent job of reducing body roll in corners, and the steering is precise, providing good feedback from the road. While the Impreza isn't a sports car by any means, it offers a level of responsiveness that makes it fun to drive on twisty roads. The manual transmission is a joy to use, with a light clutch and positive shift action. The gear ratios are well-matched to the engine's power output, allowing you to make the most of its modest horsepower. The engine itself is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While this isn't a huge amount of power, it's sufficient for everyday driving. The Impreza accelerates smoothly and confidently, and the engine is responsive to throttle inputs. The manual transmission allows you to keep the engine in its sweet spot, maximizing its power output. One of the most appealing aspects of the Impreza is its standard all-wheel-drive system. This provides enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions, making it a great choice for those living in areas with snow or rain. The all-wheel-drive system also helps to improve the car's handling, giving it a more planted and confident feel on the road. The Impreza is also a comfortable car to drive, with supportive seats and a well-designed interior. The cabin is relatively quiet, and the ride is smooth and composed. The Impreza is a great choice for those who value practicality and comfort. The 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport with the manual transmission offers a unique blend of practicality and fun. It's a car that's both capable and engaging, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers.
Interior and Technology
Stepping inside the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport, you'll find a cabin that's both functional and stylish. The sport cloth upholstery with red stitching adds a touch of visual flair, while the supportive seats keep you comfortable on long drives. The interior design is clean and uncluttered, with all the controls logically placed and easy to reach. The materials used throughout the cabin are of decent quality, giving the Impreza a premium feel. The infotainment system is a highlight of the interior. The larger touchscreen display is bright and responsive, and the interface is easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration are standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone and access your favorite apps. The infotainment system also includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and a rearview camera. The Impreza also comes standard with a suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. These features help to keep you safe on the road and can provide added peace of mind. The Impreza's interior is also surprisingly spacious. The rear seats offer ample legroom for passengers, and the cargo area is surprisingly large for a compact car. This makes the Impreza a great choice for those who need to haul passengers or cargo on a regular basis. Overall, the interior of the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport is well-designed and functional, with comfortable seats, intuitive controls, and a generous array of features. It's a great place to spend time, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip.
Potential Downsides
Of course, no car is perfect, and the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport has a few potential drawbacks. The most significant is its lack of power. While the 2.0-liter engine is adequate for everyday driving, it can feel a bit sluggish when accelerating or climbing hills. If you're looking for a car with strong acceleration, you may want to consider a different option. Another potential downside is the Impreza's fuel economy. While it's not terrible, it's not class-leading either. The Impreza's fuel economy is about average for the compact car segment. Finally, some may find the Impreza's styling to be a bit bland. While the Sport trim adds some visual flair, the Impreza is still a relatively conservative-looking car. If you're looking for a car that stands out from the crowd, you may want to consider a different option. Despite these potential downsides, the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport is still a great car overall. Its strengths far outweigh its weaknesses, making it a great choice for a wide range of drivers.
Final Verdict
So, what's the final verdict on the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport with the manual transmission? I think it's a winner! It offers a unique blend of practicality, capability, and fun, making it a great choice for driving enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile car. The manual transmission adds a layer of engagement that's simply not available with an automatic, and the sport-tuned suspension provides a more controlled and responsive ride. The Impreza's standard all-wheel-drive system is a major selling point, providing enhanced traction and stability in all weather conditions. And the interior is well-designed and functional, with comfortable seats and intuitive controls. While the Impreza may not be the most powerful or fuel-efficient car in its class, it offers a great overall package that's hard to beat. If you're looking for a compact car that's fun to drive, capable, and practical, the 2020 Subaru Impreza Sport with the manual transmission is definitely worth considering. It's a car that will put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel. Thanks for joining me on this review, guys! Happy driving!
