In sum, the Impreza RS's drivetrain/suspension combination makes a reasonably sophisticated package. A few subcompacts are smoother, and more refined in the details. Yet the RS comes with more entertainment value, and more character, than a Ford Escort or Toyota Corolla or most other cars of similar dimensions. Throw in the all-season security of all-wheel-drive, and you have a package that's hard to beat for the money.

The Impreza 2.5 RS delivers decent performance, good fun, head-turning looks, a functional back seat and--for those who live in less hospitable climes--fewer worries about when the next storm might blow through.

And there's no other subcompact quite like it.