Subaru Impreza wins MotorWeek's Driver's Choice Award

"It is an honor to receive the award for best compact car from MotorWeek," Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO. "We are very excited about the all-new Impreza and we feel it is a game-changer for Subaru in the compact segment. In fact, Impreza sales in January were up 175-percent. We are pleased to bring our customers a car that packages safety, fun and function."

Indeed the Subaru Impreza's redesign and update for 2012 most likely helped boost sales dramatically. The Impreza, like all Subarus, come equipped as standard with Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD). Even with AWD the new Impreza offers great fuel economy, actually the best in America, with EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway (models with equipped with the automatic transmission.) Powered by a 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine gives the vehicle exceptionally power and smooth ride, due to the even balance of the engine. As well the boxer engines are extremely reliable. Transmission options include choices of a five-speed manual transmission or the enhanced, second-generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission).

"With its 2012 re-design, we think the Subaru Impreza is primed for prime time," said John Davis, MotorWeek host and executive producer. "No other compact comes close to the Impreza's mix of standard all-wheel-drive, upscale interior, and near bargain pricing. Add in a fun-to-drive steering feel, plus a big jump in fuel economy, and you've got a four-season winner."

It is hard to argue with John Davis, as he is a leader in the automotive journalism world. He started MotorWeek almost 30 years ago and continues to host the show. Davis and the MotorWeek team know about cars and know how to review them. So the MotorWeek Driver's Choice awards are not easily handed-out.

The award comes as welcome news to Subaru which has had record sales in 2011 across the entire brand's lineup. For the beginning of 2012 it posted impressive numbers, with a 21% jump over sales from last year.

With the sales success and an accolade from MotorWeek, the Subaru Impeza most likely will continue to sell well. It should be an excellent option for those looking for a safe, reliable, fun-to-drive compact car for the whole family or themselves.