2024 Subaru Impreza RS test drive review

Nearly a year ago, we drove the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS at the Rocky Mountain Driving Experience in Colorado, and after a brief 30-minute drive, we were impressed. Its simple interior trappings and mildly spicy driving demeanor endeared us, leaving us wanting more time with it for a full evaluation. 

Well, after nine months we got more time, this time in Los Angeles. And guess what? We were again impressed. We admit we were a bit nervous about how the compact Impreza would carry the four of us and our luggage, but we should have never doubted the Impreza RS. It did great, even if it was a bit tight.

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Photo courtesy of Subaru

Hatchback versatility without the bulk

Subaru decided to streamline its 2024 Impreza lineup, and it’s definitely a step in the right direction. By focusing on three hatchback trims and bidding farewell to the sedan, it simplifies what makes Subaru so successful: versatile and practical vehicles. We’re happy to see them so focused on offering excellent hatchbacks.

Our family of four — and our luggage — all fit in the Impreza RS, albeit snugly, thanks to the hatchback layout. Will they make the same decision for the WRX? Fingers crossed.

RS spice

Whenever you resurrect a beloved model nameplate, you’d better deliver on that nostalgia — especially one with a promise of enthusiast appeal and premium features. Thankfully, the new Impreza RS delivers on both fronts. 

While 182 horsepower might not sound like a lot, compared to the standard Impreza’s paltry 152 horsepower, the RS is downright zippy. The acceleration from the 2.5-liter boxer engine is surprisingly strong off the line and was plenty of fun scooting around town. It does lose steam above 30 mph though, and it seems to wheeze its way forward in the higher rpm range. 

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Photo courtesy of Subaru

Handling wise, the RS impresses with its sport-tuned suspension and the stability of its boxer engine, as well as a WRXesque steering rack. Fuel economy remains competitive, especially with its spacious 16.6-gallon tank, offering an impressive 481 miles of range. We averaged just shy of 30 mpg in our week of testing.

In addition to the spritely driving dynamics, and despite the sport-tuned suspension, the RS delivered excellent ride quality, even over some rough patches of LA freeway. Road noise wasn’t bad, but it was noticeable — not really a surprise given how big the windows are. It’s a fun car to drive and honestly, it’s just enough to keep most drivers happy in their all-season Utah commute. 

Comfortable and practical interior

When we first drove the Impreza RS a year ago, a few of the things we enjoyed most were the comfortable seats, spacious rear seat, excellent visibility and perfect seating position. After spending a week with it, we confirm all of those positive qualities are just as good as we remember. 

Photo courtesy of Subaru

Subaru has a real knack for creating open and airy interiors, and the new Impreza RS is no exception. They’re some of the most open-feeling cockpits on the market. Contributing to that comfort are the seats. The cloth seats in the RS are so soft and supportive, they’d be perfect for commuters. 

The same goes for the rear seats. It’s a shockingly spacious place to be, even for adults. How Subaru made this compact car feel so spacious is a mystery to us. In addition, the materials feel good and well constructed; they are definitely appropriate for a car that hovers just near the $30,000 mark. 

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Top-tier safety systems and ratings

When it comes to safety, few do it as well as Subaru. In terms of technology, the driver assist systems were effective — maybe even too effective given the lane-keeping assist alert’s ultrasensitivity. 

Subaru has standardized its EyeSight Driver Assist Technology across all three Impreza trim levels. Models equipped with blind spot detection now feature automatic emergency steering, along with standard lane-keep assist and rear cross-traffic alert on the RS model. 

Photo courtesy of Subaru

Additionally, the 2024 Impreza introduces new features such as Trip Log and Driving Journal, Valet Mode and Remote Vehicle Configuration to enhance driver convenience and vehicle customization options.

If there is a major weak spot with the Impreza RS, it’s with the infotainment system. The iPad-like screen is laggy, crowded and convoluted. We’ve used this system numerous times in other Subaru models, and it’s never been easy to navigate. Given how easy some of the competitor’s infotainment systems are to use, it might be time for an overhaul, Subaru. 

Verdict: A taste of what Subaru does best

The 2024 Impreza RS offers a balanced blend of performance and practicality, though it faces stiff competition in the compact car market. It excels in some areas, such as its solid all-wheel capability, decent cargo space and fun enough driving dynamics. But other aspects, such as the infotainment system and sensitivity of some safety systems, could use improvement.

Our tester priced out at $31,045 with destination charges and a $2,070 package, including a moonroof, Harman Kardon stereo and a 10-way power drive adjustable seat. It's priced competitively and presents a compelling choice for budget conscious buyers seeking a capable, fun-to-drive, simple and versatile hatchback.

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Photo courtesy of Subaru

Highs: 

• Just enough spice to have fun with

• Super practical

• Efficient

• Comfortable and spacious interior

• Simple, straightforward design

• Standard all-wheel drive

Lows: 

• Frustrating infotainment

• Some intrusive road noise over rough pavement

FAQs

Is it good for families? 

For smaller families, yes. We have two kids and were pleasantly surprised that all of our luggage fit for an extended weekend. There’s good space in the rear seat, and the versatility of the hatchback can’t be dismissed. That said, if you’re looking to stay in the Subaru family, an Outback, Forester or Ascent all offer more interior space and cargo room for not much more money. 

Is it fun to drive? 

While we wouldn’t call it exciting, the Impreza RS is fun enough. Its handling almost feels like a WRX, and it’s especially zippy around town at lower speeds. 

*KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.