Subaru Impreza

Key design changes to the 2003 Subaru Impreza range include a new front bumper, spoiler, bonnet, wings and headlamps. There is also a totally new 1.6-litre engine. The 2.0-litre WRX sees its power increased from to 225 PS, and there’s improved throttle response, thanks to revisions to the exhaust manifold. Interiors have also been upgraded. Passenger and pedestrian safety has also been boosted with innovations such as new anti-raindrop door mirrors which stay cleaner, enhancing visibility and active front head-restraints which reduce the risk of whiplash injuries. The energy-absorbing brake pedal is designed to snap away under severe impact, protecting the driver’s lower limgs. Outside, pedestrian injury is reduced by a more rounded contour to the top of the front bumper, a more gently curved bonnet and windscreen wipers which crush, softening any impact. Stars: N/A

Subaru Forester

The Forester was renewed as a completely new model in November offering much improved fuel economy and a choice of 125 PS 2.0-litre or 177 PS Turbo engines. All models have higher top speeds and up to 4.5mpg improvement. Climate control and a CD player are standard. Now badged ‘X’ for ‘crossover’ and ‘XT’ for ‘crossover turbo’, the new Forrester offers the choice of a 125 PS 2.0-litre petrol engine or a 177 PS turbo with either automatic or manual transmission. Its low centre of gravity means the Forester can offer a similar high seating position and ground clearance as has a conventional SUV. I always liked the Forester as an alternative offroad vehicle, and obviously the Audi people did too, and copied the idea with their Allroad. Provisional Stars: 8/10

Subaru Legacy

Subaru’s Legacy saloon comes with a fuel economy improvement for 2003 plus a cut in emissions. Both the Legacy 2.0-litre GL and 2.5 GX have new plush interiors with two different, high-quality cloths for the seats and doors. Air-conditioning and CD players are now standard and there are improved LCD instrument displays. The improvements also apply to the Legacy estate and the Outback range. There was a time that this large car outshone its more popular competition in our eyes, though they’ve mostly caught up and passed out on the straight now. Still, it makes for a decent people mover in reasonable comfort and is reliable and will probably hold value. Stars: 7/10