Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium
- Price: $18,795
- Gas mileage: 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway
This four-door sedan is sure to appeal to retirees who want a compact car but also want cargo room to lug around the baggage of whatever hobby they may take up. The 2012 Subaru Impreza boasts 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, a six-speaker audio system that can control your iPod, and Bluetooth hands-free cellphone and audio system. The Impreza can fit three passengers in the back, or the seats can be folded down to expand the cargo space.
The 148-horsepower, 2-liter, four-cylinder sedan comes in four- and five-door models that will be attractive to retirees who want ease of use with entry and exit from the compact car. Another attractive feature for retirees: a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel. Buyers can choose from a five-speed manual or the optional continuously variable transmission.
Safety isn't an issue with the Impreza because it comes equipped with seven air bags, including knee air bags, vehicle dynamics control, which automatically senses steering and breaking to assist in keeping it on the road, and symmetrical all-wheel drive, which is designed for better control and quick response when roads are slick.
The Subaru Impreza isn't without accolades. It won the 2012 MotorWeek Driver's Choice Award for best compact car at the Chicago Auto Show and claims to offer the highest fuel economy for any all-wheel-drive car in the U.S.