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From Auto Express - any comments (Arron etc. ????)

Best Sporting Car: Subaru Impreza WRX


"The Impreza DNA that endeared the old car to so many remains intact"

Replacing an automotive icon is a tricky business. The original Impreza Turbo, widely heralded as the definitive performance car of the Nineties, certainly made its mark on our sporting car category in previous years. A runner-up in 1998, the super-saloon won top honours the next year and was commended yet again in 2000.

And yet again, Subaru has topped the bill. We think the WRX is brilliant. Although the styling is best described as controversial - its bulbous headlights are our biggest gripe - the rest of the car is outstanding. However, pre-launch indications had led us to fear the worst. Subaru talked about having softened the suspension and making the turbocharger less aggressive. Yet when we tested the car, our worries proved unfounded. Few cars are more suited to British roads than this 2.0-litre turbocharged, four-wheel-drive machine. The more cushioned set-up does nothing to compromise the driving experience, so the core values of the Impreza remain firmly intact.

The accomplished ride smothers bumps brilliantly, yet there's not a trace of body roll and the chassis has amazing high-speed stability. This allows it to be driven quickly on poor quality roads, aided by extremely precise brakes and steering. Power outputs are 215bhp and 292Nm of torque, similar to those of its predecessor, although the engine's character has altered; it responds more gently, in keeping with the WRX's smoother character. Performance is undimmed with 0-60mph arriving in less than six seconds, while top speed is on the far side of 140mph.

The Impreza is a satisfying, invigorating car, even in Sports Wagon estate form. Indeed, the Wagon performs flawlessly and concedes nothing dynamically to the saloon. It also looks more individual and has enough space to carry mountain bikes, dogs or whatever else your life demands. All this and it's affordable, too. More than just our favourite sporting car, the Impreza WRX is one of the best all-rounders you buy.

At a glance
Price range: £21,495-£21,995
Engines: 2.0-litre petrol
Body style: 4-door saloon, 5-door Sports Wagon
Favourite model: Sports Wagon
How much? £21,995
How fast? 144mph; 0-60mph: 6.3 secs

Commended
BMW M3
This year BMW blasted back on to the sports car scene with the new M3, which came close to toppling the Impreza thanks to its savage power, fine handling and overall quality. However, crushing speed and explosive power aren't everything; the M3 lacks the intimacy and all-weather ability of our champ.

SEAT Leon 20V T
The maverick of the VW family, SEAT is capable of turning out some astonishingly good cars and its Leon 20V T is the finest of the breed. Its 1.8-litre turbo engine from Audi's TT provides strong acceleration, while the Leon handles tidily, boasts good interior space and costs a mere £14,995. A performance bargain.