Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium, a car that's been turning heads and stirring hearts for years. If you're a fan of rally-inspired performance, turbocharged engines, and all-wheel drive confidence, then you're in the right place. This review will cover everything you need to know, from its exhilarating performance and sporty handling to its comfortable interior and practical features. We'll explore what makes this car a fantastic choice for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike. So buckle up and let's get started!

Overview of the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium

The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium isn't just your average compact car; it's a performance machine disguised in a practical package. Subaru has a rich history in rallying, and the WRX is a direct descendant of those legendary rally cars. The "WRX" moniker stands for "World Rally eXperimental," a nod to its racing pedigree. The 2010 model year represents a sweet spot in the WRX lineage, offering a blend of performance, refinement, and value. The "Premium" trim adds a touch of luxury and convenience, making it an even more appealing choice for those who want a daily driver that can also tear up the track on weekends.

Key Features

• Turbocharged Engine: The heart of the WRX is its turbocharged engine, which delivers exhilarating acceleration and a broad powerband.
• Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive: Subaru's signature symmetrical all-wheel-drive system provides exceptional traction and stability in all weather conditions.
• Sport-Tuned Suspension: The sport-tuned suspension offers precise handling and a thrilling driving experience.
• Premium Interior: The Premium trim adds leather upholstery, heated front seats, and other upscale features.
• Sporty Styling: The WRX boasts aggressive styling cues, including a rear spoiler, hood scoop, and unique alloy wheels.

Performance and Handling

Okay, let's get to the juicy stuff: how does the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium perform? In short, it's a blast! The turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is the star of the show, pumping out a healthy 265 horsepower and 244 lb-ft of torque. This means you get strong acceleration across the rev range, making it easy to pass on the highway or blast out of corners. The turbocharger spools up quickly, providing minimal lag and a satisfying surge of power. The 2010 WRX delivers power smoothly and consistently, making it a joy to drive in various conditions.

Engine and Transmission

The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is a masterpiece of engineering. It's not just about the raw power; it's about how that power is delivered. The engine is responsive and eager to rev, and the turbocharger adds a layer of excitement that's hard to resist. The standard transmission is a five-speed manual, which is the preferred choice for enthusiasts. The manual gearbox offers precise shifts and a direct connection to the engine. The clutch is also nicely weighted, making it easy to modulate and control. For those who prefer an automatic, a four-speed automatic transmission was also available, but it doesn't quite offer the same level of engagement as the manual.

Handling and Braking

Subaru's symmetrical all-wheel-drive system is a game-changer when it comes to handling. It provides incredible grip and stability, allowing you to confidently tackle corners and navigate slippery roads. The sport-tuned suspension further enhances the handling, providing a firm but not harsh ride. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a good feel for the road. Whether you're carving through mountain roads or navigating city streets, the WRX feels planted and composed. The brakes are also up to the task, providing strong and consistent stopping power. The 2010 WRX offers a balanced and responsive driving experience, making it a true driver's car.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium, you'll find a cabin that's both sporty and comfortable. The "Premium" trim adds a touch of luxury with leather upholstery and heated front seats, making those cold morning commutes a little more bearable. The seats themselves are well-bolstered, providing good support during spirited driving. The interior design is functional and straightforward, with all the controls within easy reach. While it may not be the most luxurious cabin in its class, it's well-built and offers a pleasant environment for both the driver and passengers. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium strikes a balance between sporty aesthetics and everyday comfort, making it a practical choice for a wide range of drivers.

Interior Design and Comfort

The interior of the WRX Premium is designed with the driver in mind. The dashboard is clean and uncluttered, with large, easy-to-read gauges. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and feels great in your hands. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The rear seats offer decent space for passengers, and the trunk is surprisingly spacious for a compact car. The 2010 WRX Premium provides a comfortable and practical interior, making it a great daily driver.

Technology and Features

In terms of technology, the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium offers a good array of features for its time. Standard features include a six-speaker audio system, air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows and locks. The Premium trim adds a sunroof, heated front seats, and leather upholstery. While it may not have the latest and greatest tech features found in modern cars, it has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. The 2010 WRX Premium offers a blend of essential features and sporty upgrades, ensuring a satisfying ride.

Reliability and Maintenance

When considering any car, reliability is a key factor. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium has a reputation for being a reliable car, but like any performance vehicle, it requires proper maintenance. Regular oil changes, filter replacements, and other routine maintenance tasks are crucial to keeping the WRX running smoothly. It's also important to be aware of potential issues, such as turbocharger problems or head gasket failures, which are common in turbocharged engines. However, with diligent maintenance and care, the WRX can provide years of reliable service. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium offers a balance of performance and dependability, but proper care is essential.

Common Issues and Maintenance Tips

Some common issues to watch out for in the 2010 WRX Premium include:

• Turbocharger problems: Turbochargers can be sensitive to oil quality and maintenance, so regular oil changes are crucial.
• Head gasket failures: This is a common issue in older Subaru engines, so keep an eye out for signs of coolant leaks or overheating.
• Clutch wear: If you drive the car hard, the clutch may wear out prematurely.

To keep your 2010 WRX Premium running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:

• Change the oil regularly (every 3,000-5,000 miles).
• Use high-quality synthetic oil.
• Check the coolant level and condition regularly.
• Replace the air filter and fuel filter as needed.
• Have the timing belt replaced at the recommended interval.

Fuel Economy

Let's be honest, fuel economy isn't the WRX's strongest suit. With its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system, it's not the most fuel-efficient car on the road. However, for the level of performance it offers, the fuel economy is respectable. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium is EPA-rated at 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. Your actual mileage may vary depending on your driving style and conditions. If you're looking for maximum fuel economy, the WRX may not be the best choice, but if you're willing to sacrifice a bit of fuel efficiency for a lot of fun, it's a worthwhile trade-off. The 2010 WRX Premium balances performance and fuel consumption, offering a spirited drive without completely emptying your wallet at the pump.

Pricing and Value

When it comes to pricing, the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium offers a lot of value for the money. As a used car, it's available at a reasonable price point, especially considering its performance capabilities and features. The Premium trim adds extra features and comfort, making it an even more attractive option. Compared to other performance cars in its class, the WRX offers a compelling combination of power, handling, and practicality. If you're looking for a fun and engaging car that won't break the bank, the 2010 WRX Premium is definitely worth considering. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium provides a competitive price point for its performance and features, making it an excellent choice in the used car market.

Market Analysis

In the used car market, the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium typically falls into a mid-range price bracket, depending on factors such as mileage, condition, and location. When compared to rivals like the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution or the Mazdaspeed3, the WRX often strikes a balance between performance, reliability, and price. The Premium trim usually commands a slightly higher price due to its added features, but many buyers find the extra comfort and convenience worth the investment. The 2010 WRX Premium is a popular choice among car enthusiasts due to its performance heritage and practical nature, making it a sought-after vehicle in the used car market.

Pros and Cons

To give you a clear picture, let's summarize the pros and cons of the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium.

Pros

• Exhilarating Performance: The turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system deliver thrilling acceleration and handling.
• Sporty and Practical: The WRX is a performance car that's also comfortable and practical for daily driving.
• Premium Features: The Premium trim adds leather upholstery, heated seats, and other upscale features.
• Strong Resale Value: WRXs tend to hold their value well, making them a good investment.

Cons

• Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is not the best compared to other compact cars.
• Maintenance: Turbocharged engines require careful maintenance.
• Ride Quality: The ride can be firm on rough roads.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium? Overall, it's an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun, sporty, and practical car. The turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system provide exhilarating performance, while the Premium trim adds a touch of luxury and comfort. It's not the most fuel-efficient car, and it requires proper maintenance, but the driving experience is well worth it. If you're a fan of performance cars and appreciate Subaru's rally heritage, the 2010 WRX Premium is definitely worth a look. The 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium is a standout choice for driving enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, practicality, and premium features in a used car package.

If you value a responsive engine, confident handling in all weather, and a sporty driving experience, the 2010 Subaru Impreza WRX Premium is a compelling option. Just remember to keep up with maintenance and enjoy the ride!

I hope this review has been helpful, guys! Happy driving! 🏁 🚗