Subaru Impreza Sports Wagon

Perhaps unfairly viewed as the poor relation to the Impreza saloon, the Sports Wagon estate isn't quite as glamorous as the rally-inspired STi. However, it still represents good value, particularly with the WRX, and the non-turbo 2.0R models. New for the 2007 model year is an entry-level 1.5-litre model that aims to offer Subaru's rally heritage and all-wheel drive traction for a few hundred pounds more than the cheapest five-door Ford Focus. Although all versions are good to drive and are well equipped, despite regular revisions and refreshes the Impreza is feeling its age on the inside, with an abundance of hard plastics and old-fashioned angular designs.

R, SPORT, WRX, SL

R models come with air conditioning, four airbags, a CD/radio/cassette player, electric windows and mirrors, alloy wheels and a hill-holder clutch (which prevents rolling backwards between releasing the handbrake and accelerating). R Sport models add xenon headlamps with headlamp washers. WRX model includes larger alloy wheels and a rear limited slip differential.

2.5 WRX