Hello everyone. I recently (one week ago) purchased my first Subaru. It is a 06 Impreza. I'm including lots of photo's just because the car is new and photo's can say more than I feel like writing. I am located in (northern) British Columbia Canada and the AWD is one of the reasons that I went with Subaru over the competition. My last car was a 89' Jetta which I had for 5 years so to say this is an upgrade is an understatement.
Since I've only had the car a week, I'm still getting used to the feel of the car and it's characteristics. I did a lot of research before purchasing this used car, so I feel confident and satisfied with my decision. After one week, this car feels like a brand new car compared to my last vehicle so I'm trying to be objective in my critique - my first impressions go something like this:
Pro's:
-plenty of power (for my needs).
-5spd transmission is very slick.
-suspension is plush, yet still gives back adequate road feel.
-gas mileage thus far isn't as bad as I thought it would be with AWD.
-overall structure feels SOLID.
-fit and finish is very good in the interior.
-seats are comfortable and driving position is great.
-hatch has proven to be very versatile even after one week.
-car came with lots of great standard features.
Con's:
*these aren't knocks against the car, just things that I've noticed thus far and am still getting used to.
-paint/exterior needs a thorough detail/polish/wax. (I've heard Subaru paint/finish isn't great unfortunately so I'll have to keep my eye on this - planning a complete detail including wash/clay/polish/wax soon).
-this shade of blue might be the hardest color to keep clean.
-no lock on the glove box.
-interior carpet isn't the best quality (even my 89 Jetta carpet was higher grade).
-center storage console is too short/low/small.
-cup holders are a bit too far back for my liking.
I'm not expecting to do any mods to the car anytime soon, with the exception of perhaps ordering a fitted plastic/rubberized trunk/cargo mat and a couple of bike racks to attach to the factory Subaru crossbars. I'd like to perhaps get a tonneau cover, but it looks like it'll cost me $400.00 and maybe the tinted windows are good enough to keep prying eyes out of the hatch?
Anyone with any info on either of these accessories, your comments are appreciated.
Here are the photo's. Thanks for looking.