THE Subaru Impreza was released onto the Australian market in April, 1993, with 10 models in the range, including front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive sedans and hatchbacks.

The range was expanded in 1994 with the introduction of the Sportswagon and high performance Impreza WRX.

The Impreza was based on a shortened version of the superseded Liberty floorpan and shares many of its bigger brother's mechanical components.

Otherwise, the rest of the Impreza was new and the unusual styling made it stand apart from its rivals. In fact, Subaru started a styling trend with the Impreza hatch which was followed by other Japanese and South Korean makers.

The hatchback looks more station wagon than hatch. The rear-end styling is a matter of taste but the extra space make it very practical with a great deal more luggage space than a conventional hatch.

The GX hatchback was more expensive than some of its rivals but came with a comprehensive list of standard equipment - air- conditioning, power steering, central locking, power mirrors, power windows with one-touch up and down for the driver and a four-speaker radio/cassette.

Four-channel anti-lock brakes, which also upgraded the rear drum brakes to discs, were an option.

The Impreza had an update in 1995 with minor front and interior trim changes while cruise control was added as standard equipment.

In a bid to keep the Impreza's new price competitive, cost cutting saw air-conditioning removed from the standard equipment list and made an extra cost option in July, 1995.

The 1.8-litre, all aluminium engine has a power output of 76kW at 5600rpm with 147Nm of torque at 4400rpm.

The compact, flat four engine layout allows the bonnet and scuttle to be lower than normal which improves forward vision and makes parking easier.

The driving position is comfortable with good side support from the cloth-trimmed seats and a rest for the left foot. The instruments, which include a tachometer, are large and easy to read.

The high roof provides good headroom and the large glass area makes the cabin feel spacious and open.

The Impreza's suspension may not be sporty but it does ride well, helped by the standard Michelin tyres, with moderate understeer and body roll.

The disc/drum brakes can easily cope with the Impreza's performance but the anti-lock option with rear discs has better performance on slippery roads.

Subaru has a good record of building good quality, long lasting, reliable cars.

The Impreza is more expensive than its rivals but is better equipped. It stands out from the crowd.