What's up, car enthusiasts? Today, we're diving deep into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs, a ride that's been a solid contender in the compact car segment for ages. If you're looking for a car that blends practicality with a bit of sporty flair, and of course, Subaru's legendary all-wheel-drive system, then you've come to the right place. We're going to break down everything you need to know about this particular trim, from its engine and performance to its interior and tech features. So buckle up, guys, because we're about to get into the nitty-gritty of the 2018 Impreza Sport!

Engine and Performance: Getting the Job Done

Let's kick things off with what's under the hood of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport. Powering this agile machine is a 2.0-liter SUBARU BOXER engine. Now, for those who aren't familiar, the BOXER engine has horizontally opposed cylinders, which gives it a lower center of gravity. This translates to better stability and handling, which is a huge plus, especially when you're tackling some twisty roads or dealing with less-than-ideal weather conditions. This engine puts out a respectable 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. While it might not win any drag races, it's more than enough for daily driving, merging onto the highway, and getting you where you need to go efficiently.

The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport comes standard with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This is a game-changer, folks. Unlike many competitors in this class that offer AWD as an optional upgrade, Subaru makes it standard on nearly all its models, including the Impreza. This system actively distributes power between the front and rear wheels, and also between the left and right wheels, providing exceptional traction and stability in rain, snow, or even just on slippery roads. It's one of the biggest reasons why people trust and love their Subarus, and the Impreza Sport is no exception. You'll feel a sense of confidence behind the wheel, knowing that you've got that extra grip.

When it comes to transmissions, the 2018 Impreza Sport offered two choices. The more driver-focused option was a 5-speed manual transmission. For those who enjoy the engagement of shifting gears themselves, this is the way to go. It adds a bit more fun to the driving experience. However, for the majority of buyers, the Subaru Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was also available. This CVT is tuned to be quite responsive, and it does a good job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot for optimal fuel economy. It also includes simulated manual shift modes, which can give you a bit more control when you want it. Fuel economy ratings for the 2018 Impreza Sport with the CVT were typically around 28 MPG city and 38 MPG highway, which is pretty darn good for an AWD vehicle. The manual transmission would see slightly lower figures, as is common.

Suspension-wise, the Impreza Sport features a well-tuned independent suspension system. This setup contributes to a comfortable ride quality without sacrificing the car's ability to handle corners with composure. It strikes a nice balance between everyday comfort and sporty responsiveness, making it a versatile choice for a variety of driving scenarios. The steering is also well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver, which further enhances the sporty feel of the Sport trim.

Exterior Styling: Sporty and Practical

When you look at the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, you can immediately see why it’s called the 'Sport' trim. Subaru did a great job of giving it a more aggressive and athletic appearance compared to the lower trims. The front fascia features a bolder grille design and sportier bumper elements that give it a more dynamic look. The headlights are sharp and modern, projecting a confident presence on the road. It’s subtle enough not to be over-the-top, but distinct enough to turn heads.

One of the standout exterior features on the Sport trim are the 18-inch alloy wheels. These larger wheels not only fill out the wheel wells nicely, giving the car a more planted stance, but they also contribute to the sportier aesthetic. They're usually a dark gunmetal or machined finish, which adds a touch of sophistication. These wheels come wrapped in tires that are often lower-profile than what you'd find on lesser trims, further enhancing the sporty feel and grip. It really elevates the overall look of the car, making it stand out from the crowd.

Subaru also incorporated sport-styled side sills on the Impreza Sport, which visually lower the car and give it a more streamlined profile. These subtle additions enhance the aerodynamic look and reinforce the sporty character. The rear of the car also gets some attention, often featuring a small rear spoiler integrated into the trunk lid or liftgate (depending on whether it's a sedan or hatchback). This spoiler isn't just for show; it can actually help improve aerodynamics at higher speeds, although its primary role here is definitely aesthetic. The dual exhaust outlets, often with chrome tips, also contribute to the sporty rear-end design, giving it a more premium and performance-oriented finish.

The 2018 Impreza Sport was available in both sedan and hatchback body styles. This is fantastic because it caters to different needs and preferences. The sedan offers a more traditional, sleek profile, while the hatchback provides superior cargo versatility and a more utilitarian appeal. Both versions, however, carry the same sporty design cues, ensuring that no matter which you choose, you're getting a good-looking vehicle. The hatchback, in particular, is incredibly practical, with a large opening and a flexible cargo area that can swallow groceries, gear, or whatever else you need to haul.

Color options for the 2018 Impreza Sport were typical of Subaru, offering a range of choices from classic solid colors to more vibrant metallic and pearl finishes. Whether you opted for a bold red, a cool blue, a sophisticated silver, or a timeless black, the Impre500000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000 ext{ looks pretty slick in any of them. It's a solid, well-proportioned car that offers a great blend of style and practicality.}

Interior Comfort and Technology: A Cozy and Connected Cabin

Now, let's talk about what it's like inside the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport. Subaru interiors are generally known for their functionality and comfortable, no-nonsense design, and the 2018 Impreza Sport is no exception. The 'Sport' trim level usually adds some nice touches that make the cabin feel a bit more upscale and driver-oriented. You'll find supportive cloth seats with unique stitching or accents that differentiate them from lower trims. The driver's seat often includes manual lumbar support, which is a godsend on longer journeys. The overall layout of the dashboard is clean and intuitive, with all the major controls within easy reach of the driver.

One of the key features you'll appreciate in the 2018 Impreza Sport is the 7-inch STARLINK touchscreen infotainment system. This system is the heart of the car's connectivity and entertainment. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which are absolute must-haves these days, guys. Being able to seamlessly integrate your smartphone allows you to access navigation apps, make calls, send texts, and play your favorite music through the car's speakers, all controlled via the touchscreen or voice commands. This makes your commute or road trips so much more enjoyable and safer, as you can keep your eyes on the road.

The STARLINK system also includes Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, a USB port for charging devices and connecting media, and an auxiliary input. Depending on the specific options package, you might also get features like SiriusXM satellite radio. The sound system itself is usually a 4-speaker or 6-speaker setup, providing decent audio quality for everyday listening. While it might not blow audiophiles away, it’s perfectly adequate for the average driver.

Beyond the infotainment, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs also include practical comfort features. You'll typically find automatic climate control, which makes maintaining a comfortable cabin temperature a breeze. Steering wheel-mounted controls for audio, cruise control, and Bluetooth are standard, allowing you to manage these functions without taking your hands off the wheel. Keyless entry and push-button start are often available, adding a touch of modern convenience. Heated front seats are also a popular option, especially in colder climates, making those winter mornings a lot more bearable.

Space-wise, the Impreza Sport offers a surprisingly roomy cabin for its class. Front passengers have ample legroom and headroom, and the rear seats are also quite accommodating for adults, though perhaps a bit snug for three across on a long trip. The ergonomics are spot on, with good visibility in all directions thanks to the large windows and well-placed pillars. The materials used throughout the cabin, while not luxurious, are durable and well-assembled, giving the impression of a car built to last. Overall, the interior of the 2018 Impreza Sport is a pleasant place to be, offering a good balance of comfort, technology, and practicality for daily use.

Safety Features: Subaru's Commitment to Protection

When you're looking at buying a car, especially if you're transporting family or friends, safety is a huge priority. And let me tell you, Subaru has always been at the forefront when it comes to safety, and the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport is a prime example of that commitment. This car was designed with protection in mind, offering a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features that give you peace of mind on the road.

First off, let's talk about the structure. The Impreza is built on Subaru's Advanced Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame construction. This isn't just a fancy name; it's a robust chassis design that helps to absorb and redirect impact energy away from the passenger cabin in the event of a collision. This inherent structural integrity is the foundation of Subaru's excellent safety record. Combined with a full array of airbags – including front, side-curtain, and knee airbags – the Impreza provides excellent occupant protection in various crash scenarios.

Now, for the really cool stuff: Subaru's EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. While not standard on every single 2018 Impreza Sport, it was a highly recommended and widely available option that truly elevates the safety game. The EyeSight system uses advanced stereo cameras mounted near the rearview mirror to monitor traffic ahead. It can provide Pre-Collision Braking, helping to automatically apply the brakes if a frontal collision is imminent. It also offers Pre-Collision Throttle Management, which can reduce engine power if a frontal collision is detected. This is huge for preventing accidents or reducing their severity.

But the EyeSight suite doesn't stop there. It also includes Adaptive Cruise Control, which allows you to set a desired speed and following distance from the car ahead. The system will automatically adjust your speed to maintain that distance, making highway driving much less fatiguing and safer. Another fantastic feature is Lane Keep Assist and Lane Departure Warning. Lane Departure Warning alerts you if you unintentionally drift out of your lane, while Lane Keep Assist can gently steer you back into your lane if needed. These systems are like having an extra set of eyes looking out for you.

Beyond EyeSight, the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs also include standard safety features like a rearview camera, which is essential for safe backing up. Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) is also standard, which integrates traction control and stability control to help you maintain grip and avoid skids. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist are also included, ensuring confident stopping power. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) often rated the Subaru Impreza highly, earning it top marks in various crashworthiness tests, which is a testament to its strong safety engineering. For anyone prioritizing safety, the 2018 Impreza Sport, especially with EyeSight, is a very compelling choice.

Trim Levels and Value Proposition

When considering the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport, it’s important to understand where it sits within the broader Impreza lineup. The Impreza typically offered several trim levels, such as the Base, Premium, Sport, and Limited. The Sport trim is positioned as the one that bridges the gap between the more basic models and the top-tier Limited version. It's designed for buyers who want a bit more style and slightly enhanced features without jumping all the way up to the most expensive option.

Compared to the Base and Premium trims, the Sport usually comes standard with the aforementioned 18-inch alloy wheels, sport-tuned suspension enhancements, unique interior and exterior styling cues like the sport grille, side sills, and rear spoiler. These are the elements that give the Sport its distinct personality and appeal. While the Premium trim might offer some convenience features, the Sport focuses more on the visual and dynamic enhancements that make driving more engaging and the car look sharper.

When compared to the Limited trim, the Sport typically forgoes some of the more luxurious amenities. For example, the Limited might offer leather upholstery, a sunroof, and more advanced climate control systems as standard. The 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs usually mean you get a great balance of sportiness and everyday usability. You get the cool looks and the slightly more engaging driving dynamics, but you might have to opt for certain packages if you want things like a sunroof or more advanced safety features like full EyeSight integration on lower trims.

The real value proposition of the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport lies in its combination of standard All-Wheel Drive, sporty aesthetics, and a well-equipped interior, all at a competitive price point. For its segment, getting standard AWD is a massive advantage, especially for those living in areas with inclement weather. Add in the attractive styling, the user-friendly tech with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Subaru's reputation for reliability and safety, and you've got a car that offers a tremendous amount of bang for your buck.

It's a smart choice for young drivers, couples, or small families looking for a practical yet fun-to-drive compact car that doesn't break the bank. The resale value of Subarus also tends to be quite strong, meaning that when it's time to upgrade, you'll likely get a good return on your investment. The 2018 Impreza Sport provides a compelling package that delivers on performance, style, and value, making it a highly recommended option in the used car market for anyone seeking a dependable and engaging ride. It offers a distinct personality that sets it apart from its rivals, making it a truly desirable compact car.

So there you have it, guys! A deep dive into the 2018 Subaru Impreza Sport specs. It’s a car that offers a fantastic blend of performance, style, technology, and safety, all wrapped up in Subaru's legendary AWD package. Whether you're commuting daily, heading out on a weekend adventure, or just running errands, the Impreza Sport is more than up to the task. It’s a smart, practical, and fun choice that continues to make a strong case for itself in the competitive compact car market. If you're in the market for a used compact, this one should definitely be on your radar!