Its engine, however, isn't the only reason the RS accelerates quickly. Its slight 2825 lb (1281.4 kg) curb weight (manual transmission model) makes the best use of the available horsepower. This light weight aids in other areas as well. In the curves the RS is simply unflappable, as it begs to be slammed it into four-wheel drifts. Simply point the steering wheel and the five-spoke 16" wheels mated to 205/55R16 89V all-season radials take you there - now! Steering is rack-and-pinion with engine-speed-sensing variable power assist. In rain, snow, slush or even - heaven help you - dry road conditions, the RS sticks to the road, pavement or otherwise like fruit flies to maple syrup. Its great handling is also due to a fully independent sport tuned suspension, consisting of traditional coil springs and struts. In front you will find lower L-arms with liquid-filled rear bushings and a stabilizer bar and in the rear parallel links and a stabilizer bar.
Things come to a halt quickly with impressive 10.7-inch ventilated discs up front and 10.3-inch discs at the back end mated to twin-piston calipers with a 4-channel, 4-sensor Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) and dual diagonal hydraulic circuits. These are sophisticated mechanicals for a car in this class.
Although the Impreza is much more refined and has greater mainstream appeal when compared to earlier Subarus, it still doesn't fit into the jelly mold used by most other compact carmakers. A muted check pattern in the seats and red stitching highlighting the leather clad steering wheel and shift knob are a just a couple of unique visual cues. The car as a whole feels completely different from anything else in its league. Fortunately this difference acts as a positive.