The new 2021 Subaru Impreza is well-designed and handles like a dream. But if you’re in the market for a new car, you may want to consider similar vehicles like this year’s Nissan Sentra or the Mazda3 first. Unfortunately, many features don’t come standard on the new Impreza.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza has impressively smooth handling

The newest Impreza was ranked pretty well by Consumer Reports. It ranked fourth among their list of top 14 compact cars, narrowly beating out the 2021 Honda Civic and trouncing this year’s Kia Forte and Volkswagen Jetta. It’s worth noting that Motor Trend ranked all of these cars higher than the Subaru Impreza on its list of the best compact cars.

One of the main reasons Consumer Reports ranked the Subaru Impreza so highly was how well it handles. Reviewers noted the vehicles’ responsive steering and the suspension’s excellent ability to absorb uneven pavement and tough corners.

The variable transmission reduces engine noise. Indeed, wind and road noise is greatly diminished inside the vehicle compared to previous Impreza models.

The Impreza comes standard with all-wheel drive — perfect for those dealing with inclement weather conditions. It enjoys an overall estimated fuel economy of 30 mpg, making it ideal for those with long commutes. And the Impreza also boasts a bevy of additional features that do rate some consideration.

Roomy interior and impressive technology

Quite spacious for a relatively small car, the 2021 Subaru Impreza’s large door openings also make it easy to get into and out off. Drivers will find plenty of headroom and elbow space in the cockpit. And passengers will find good leg space and headroom as well.

Riders will find few luxury touches inside but will enjoy comfortable seats and a mostly quiet cabin. They’ll also enjoy the Impreza’s technology features, including an easy-to-use Starlink infotainment system that’s compatible with Apple and Android systems.

Base and Premium models come with an AM/FM radio, and Premium users also receive a manually adjustable climate control system. Sport and Limited models come with satellite radio, navigation, and HD radio capability.

Limited trim purchasers also receive a fully automatic climate control system. And drivers can take advantage of voice commands using the Siri Eyes Free feature built into the base model.

The Impreza also comes with several impressive safety features. However, most of these don’t come standard with the base model and across all trims.

The 2021 Subaru Impreza’s safety features

You can purchase an Impreza with either a manual transmission or a CVT transmission. However, the Impreza’s standard safety package — EyeSight — does not come with manual transmission versions of the vehicle. Nor does it come standard with the Basic trim.

The Impreza’s EyeSight features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Buyers can also add on cross-traffic alert and blind-spot monitor alert features if they’re willing to pay extra. Reverse automatic braking, which comes standard with the Limited trim, is also available for an additional fee for Premium and Sport trim buyers.

The Impreza line has developed a reputation for safety, practicality, and reliability. In fact, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded several models of the 2020 Impreza with Top Safety Pick awards. Given this reputation, it’s a shame that each model doesn’t come with the full suite of safety features.

There’s a lot to like in this model. But it would be better if the Impreza’s safety features came standard across all models to truly live up to its reputation. That way, even drivers opting only for the base model could be assured of reliably transporting themselves and their passengers in both comfort and safety.