Hi guys. Time has coem for me to finally replace my DD, I'm considering an Impreza, prob Outback Sport or reg 2.5i wagon. 5 spd of course. Also on the radar is a Protege5 or maybe Mazda6 i-series, but that's another issue.
Basically, I'm not looking for a 12 second car or have any interest in that, I just kinda like smaller curvy "wagony" / 5 door cars with tight handling. Just for daily driving, family trips etc. So i'm doing my research now and have a few questions for folks that have 'em. Went and sat in one at the dealer today and looked it over. no time for a drive, grrr.
-As mentioned, will most likely go w/ 2.5i wagon or Outback Sport. Not WRX. Realistically, how is the average gas mileage on these? I currently get >30 mpg w/ my '95 Tracer now, so i'm not anxious to lose that. My normal daily driving is ~75% highway.
-I'm not a large fellow (5'9"), but the back seat felt a bit tight. We have a 21 m/o son, so his car seat will be in the middle. Anybody else w/ thsi setup, and does this just swallow the space, making both side back seats uncomfortable for a trip of any distance? Nice time I visit the dealer I'll take the child and seat w/ me, lol.
- I am acustomed to doing ALL my own auto work/maintanance - between 3 well-used cars, have not used a "shop" in prob 3-4 years. how are these vehicles for working on them yourself, how tedious is maintanance etc? To be honest the horiz-mounted engine makes me wary - how do you even get to the "lower" 2 spark plugs?
On that note, my Toy truck only has about 4 different size bolts for everything, I can do everything (including remove engine) w/ a small socket/tool set. I love that. Are Subarus/Impreza like this as well?
- What are the most common failures/issues w/ these vehicles?
Thanks guys