They have probably spent more time searching out details of engine performance, suspension and driving dynamics and safety features than owners of other mid-sized vehicles.

The result: they know their cars better and have opted for an exciting vehicle to drive.

Subaru cars are all-wheeldrive which makes them exceptionally sporty and safe on the road, even in bad weather conditions. They have a lively engine performance and are extremely stable.

The Impreza is one of the most popular models in the Subaru range and the Sports Wagon is the most versatile option here.

Subaru says the Impreza shares the same genetic code as the famous Subaru World Rally cars.

Developments made by designers, after years of rallying experience, have found their way to production road models.

The all-wheel-drive system, the Boxer two-litre engine (there is also a 2.5 litre option) and the suspension have been refined over 30 years to give a top-quality drive.

The latest Impreza Sports Wagon RX two-litre engine puts out 160bhp . . . that is almost a third more than the previous two-litre naturallyaspirated petrol engine.

This engine gives better low speed throttle response and pulling power, with maximum torque at lower revs than previous models.

The top speed of the automatic transmission version is 187km/h (203km/h in the manual).

The Boxer engine is lightweight and compact, and its horizontly opposed design helps to lower the centre of gravity, making the car more stable and helping the driver take those sharp corners.

There is also a more efficient four-speed automatic gearbox with a faster reaction time. This new model monitors the 'real-time' wheel motion, surface friction and engine output. All this information then goes through a computer that calculates the optimum steering wheel grip to ensure stability and handling.

All this ensures a smooth ride for the driver . . . power flows freely and throttle response is excellent. Road holding is naturally at a higher level thanks to the all-wheel-drive, and tyre noise is not too intrusive.

There are no whiteknuckle moments when taking corners at speed thanks to Subaru's leechlike road holding .

Performance is slightly impaired because of automatic transmission . . .

this model takes almost three seconds longer than the manual to reach 100km/ph. But this is not an issue in Irish driving conditions, and it's worth the loss of speed because the automatic transition makes driving so much more relaxed.

The extra 2,000 cost, does however, seem on the high side.

Safety and equipment levels are good . . . four airbags, electric windows, fog-lamps and driver's seat adjustment are standard.

But disappointingly items such as air-conditioning and steering audio-controls, that come as standard in cheaper cars, were not included in the test car. We are told that this is to keep the performance car at a competitive price.

The high VTR cost for added equipment adds to the cost but most punters who pay over 30,000 for a car like this will be unhappy to have to pay 1,500 to have air-conditioning fitted.

The Impreza's features have been sharpened. A new grille with a centre section resembling an aeroplane fuselage has been added.

New striking headlights and a longer bonnet with improved air intake are the main features up front. The two-litre RX Sports Wagon gets 16" five-spoke alloy wheels and the rear has been streamlined.

Subarus sell in relatively small numbers in Ireland because of the small dealer network. Engine power (apart from the 1.6 litre Impreza) puts most models outside family budgets. All models tend to have good residual value because of the build quality and performance.