Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium. This car, known for its practicality and the legendary Subaru reliability, has a lot to offer. We'll be looking at everything from the engine and performance to the interior, features, and overall driving experience. Is this the right car for you? Let’s find out! This review is designed to give you a comprehensive understanding, whether you're a potential buyer, a current owner, or just a car enthusiast curious about this model. We'll cover the essentials and some of the finer details, ensuring you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Performance and Engine

Alright, let’s talk about what makes the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium move: the engine. Under the hood, you’ll find a 2.0-liter four-cylinder BOXER engine. Subaru is known for these engines because they're horizontally opposed, which helps lower the center of gravity and improves handling. This engine produces a modest but adequate 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. Now, it's not going to win any races, but it provides enough power for everyday driving. You can choose between a five-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT is generally the more popular choice for its fuel efficiency and smooth performance. The manual transmission gives you more control if you enjoy shifting gears yourself.

One of the most significant selling points of the Impreza, especially the Sport Premium trim, is its standard all-wheel-drive (AWD) system. This is a huge advantage, particularly if you live in an area with rain, snow, or generally poor road conditions. The AWD system provides excellent traction and stability, making you feel more confident on the road. The Impreza isn't meant to be a sports car, so don't expect blistering acceleration. However, it's perfectly capable of handling city driving, highway cruising, and even some light off-roading. The fuel economy is pretty decent for an AWD vehicle. You can expect to get around 27 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway with the CVT. The manual transmission will see slightly lower figures. The Impreza offers a balanced driving experience. It’s not overly sporty, but it's not boring either. The suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and potholes with ease. The steering is responsive enough to give you a good feel for the road, making it a pleasant car to drive day in and day out. Overall, the performance aspect of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium is about reliability, practicality, and the confidence that comes with AWD. It's not a powerhouse, but it does its job well.

Interior and Features

Step inside the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium, and you'll find a comfortable and well-equipped interior. The Sport Premium trim sits above the base and mid-level trims, meaning it comes with a few extra goodies. The seats are supportive and covered in cloth upholstery. While it’s not luxury-level, it's durable and comfortable for long drives. There’s plenty of headroom and legroom, even for taller passengers, in both the front and rear seats. Subaru is known for maximizing space, and the Impreza is no exception.

The dashboard has a simple, functional design with easy-to-reach controls. You'll find a decent infotainment system with a touchscreen display, though it might feel a bit dated compared to modern systems. It includes features like Bluetooth connectivity, a rearview camera (a must-have!), and a USB port. The Sport Premium trim often includes upgrades like a sunroof, premium audio system, and upgraded interior trim. The Impreza Sport Premium also offers a good amount of cargo space for its class. The rear seats fold down to create a larger cargo area, perfect for hauling groceries, luggage, or even outdoor gear. The materials used throughout the interior are of good quality, although you won't find anything overly luxurious. The focus is on practicality and durability, which aligns with Subaru's reputation. The layout is user-friendly, with everything within easy reach. The Impreza also offers a quiet ride, with minimal road and wind noise entering the cabin. Overall, the interior of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium is a comfortable and functional space that's well-suited for daily use. It's not flashy, but it gets the job done and offers a pleasant driving experience.

Exterior Design and Styling

Let's move to the outside, the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium boasts a design that is both practical and stylish. The Impreza has a clean and understated look that has aged gracefully. It avoids any overly aggressive or flashy design elements, opting for a more timeless aesthetic. The Sport Premium trim usually features some enhancements over the base models, such as alloy wheels and body-color accents. These upgrades add a touch of sophistication to the car's appearance. The Impreza's proportions are well-balanced, with a low center of gravity thanks to the BOXER engine. This contributes to its stable handling.

The front end features a bold grille and distinctive headlights, giving the car a recognizable face. The overall shape is aerodynamic, which helps improve fuel efficiency. The Impreza is available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. The hatchback is particularly popular for its added versatility and cargo space. The exterior design focuses on functionality and practicality, reflecting Subaru's core values. The car is designed to be easy to live with, with good visibility and easy access to the cabin. The build quality is solid, with a focus on durability. The paint quality is also generally good, ensuring the car retains its appearance over time. Overall, the exterior of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium is a blend of practicality and understated style. It’s a car that doesn’t shout for attention, but it's well-designed and functional, making it a great choice for those who value reliability and a clean look.

Driving Experience and Handling

Okay, let's talk about the driving experience and handling of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium. As mentioned before, the standard all-wheel-drive system is a huge advantage. It provides excellent traction in various conditions, from rain and snow to gravel roads. This gives you a feeling of confidence and control behind the wheel. The suspension is tuned more for comfort than sportiness, which means it absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. This makes the Impreza a comfortable car to drive on both city streets and long highway journeys. The steering is responsive and offers good feedback, allowing you to easily maneuver the car in tight spaces.

The car feels planted on the road, thanks to the low center of gravity. This also contributes to its stability when cornering. The CVT transmission provides smooth and seamless shifts, contributing to a relaxed driving experience. The Impreza is not a performance car, so don't expect it to accelerate like a sports car. However, it provides enough power for everyday driving needs. The car is easy to park and maneuver, making it a good choice for urban environments. Visibility is excellent, thanks to the large windows and well-placed mirrors. The cabin is relatively quiet, with minimal road and wind noise. Overall, the driving experience of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium is comfortable, confident, and practical. It’s a car that’s easy to live with and provides a pleasant driving experience in a wide range of conditions. The AWD system and comfortable ride make it a great choice for those who value safety and reliability.

Safety Features

Safety is a crucial aspect to consider, and the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium comes with some solid safety features. Subaru is known for prioritizing safety, and the Impreza reflects that commitment. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), and a comprehensive airbag system, including front, side, and curtain airbags. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the 2014 Impreza top marks in crash tests, earning it a Top Safety Pick award.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also gave the Impreza high ratings in its safety tests. The Sport Premium trim often includes additional safety features such as a rearview camera, which enhances visibility when backing up. While advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control weren't as common in 2014, the Impreza still provides a solid foundation of safety features. Subaru’s commitment to safety, combined with the Impreza's robust construction, makes it a reliable choice for those prioritizing safety. The comprehensive airbag system provides excellent protection in the event of a collision. Overall, the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium offers a good level of safety, making it a reliable and secure choice for drivers and passengers.

Trim Levels and Options

The 2014 Subaru Impreza was available in several trim levels, each offering different features and options. The base model provided the essentials, while the higher trims added more comfort and convenience features. The Sport Premium trim sits above the base model, offering a balance of features and value. It typically includes upgrades like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system, a rearview camera, and upgraded interior trim. There were often additional options and packages available that could further enhance the car’s features.

These might have included a sunroof, a premium audio system, or other convenience features. The availability of these options could vary depending on the specific package and the dealer. The key is to research the specific options included in the car you're considering. This will help ensure it meets your needs and preferences. The trim levels and available options give you a degree of customization, allowing you to choose a car that best suits your needs and budget. The Sport Premium trim provides a great balance of features and value, making it a popular choice. Overall, understanding the trim levels and options is essential when shopping for a used 2014 Subaru Impreza.

Reliability and Maintenance

Let’s address the elephant in the room: reliability and maintenance. The 2014 Subaru Impreza has a reputation for being a reliable vehicle. Subaru is known for its durable and long-lasting cars. However, like any car, it requires regular maintenance to keep it running smoothly. Routine maintenance includes oil changes, tire rotations, and other scheduled services. Following the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule is crucial to ensure the car’s longevity. The Impreza's boxer engine can be very reliable if properly maintained. The all-wheel-drive system is also known for its durability, but it's important to have it inspected periodically.

Parts and service are generally affordable, making the Impreza a cost-effective car to own. If you’re considering a used Impreza, it's always a good idea to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic. This can help identify any potential issues and give you a better understanding of the car's condition. While no car is perfect, the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium has a solid reputation for reliability. Properly maintaining the car will help ensure it provides years of dependable service. The reasonable maintenance costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Overall, the Impreza's reliability and manageable maintenance costs make it a practical choice for everyday use.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let’s go over the pros and cons of the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium.

Pros:

• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Provides excellent traction and stability in various weather conditions. This is a huge selling point!
• Good Fuel Economy: The CVT transmission helps deliver decent fuel efficiency.
• Reliable Engine: The boxer engine is known for its durability.
• Comfortable Interior: The seats are comfortable, and there’s plenty of space.
• Practical Design: Both the sedan and hatchback offer a good amount of cargo space.
• Good Safety Ratings: High marks in crash tests from IIHS and NHTSA.

Cons:

• Modest Power: The 148-horsepower engine isn't going to set any speed records.
• Infotainment System: The touchscreen system might feel a bit dated.
• Basic Interior Materials: While comfortable, the materials aren't overly luxurious.
• CVT Feel: Some drivers don't enjoy the feel of a continuously variable transmission.

Conclusion

Alright, guys, that's a wrap on the 2014 Subaru Impreza Sport Premium! It's a solid choice for anyone looking for a reliable, practical, and safe car. The standard all-wheel drive, comfortable interior, and good fuel economy make it a great option for daily commuting and weekend adventures. While it’s not the most exciting car on the market, it does what it does very well. If you value reliability, safety, and a practical design, the Impreza Sport Premium is definitely worth considering. Thanks for joining me on this deep dive – hope this helps you out in your car-buying journey!