A YEAR following its release, and the fifth-generation Subaru Impreza has near-tripled its annual sales volumes and is now inside the top one-third of the small car class – seventh among 24 rivals.

Finally, the Impreza has been allowed to challenge mainstream small cars on price, without commanding a premium for its class-exclusive all-wheel-drive configuration. Each of the four model grades lines up competitively on specification, and most do exceptionally well for safety.

The quartet of models all get a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder ‘boxer’ engine and automatic continuously-variable transmission (CVT), but $6590 separates the entry-level Impreza 2.0i from the range-flagship Impreza 2.0i-S, as tested here priced from $29,190 plus on-road costs.

Can this top Subaru hatchback match its top sales performance and indeed top the small car class?