Subaru has launched a diesel version of the Impreza in the UK - but at a price.
The well-equipped entry-level model the 2.0D RC is priced at £20,000 on the road, while the range-topping RX model is £22,225 on the road.
It puts the range-topping model at about the same price as an Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI Quattro SE, but the Audi, with lower CO2 emissions, offers drivers lower yearly road tax.
The Impreza diesel uses a 150bhp 2.0-litre engine with 258lb-ft of torque launched in the Legacy and Forester in 2008. Fuel consumption is 47.9mpg on the combined cycle, and it will sprint from 0-62mph in nine seconds.
Standard equipment includes all-wheel drive electronic climate control, xenon headlamps, 17-inch alloy wheels and sports seats, while the RX version also has leather trim with electrically adjustable driver's seat, and an electric sunroof.
When it comes to the cost of road tax for the RX, with emissions of 155g/km, it works out at £150, compared with £125 for the Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 TDI Quattro SE. The two-wheel drive-only BMW 120d SE five-door also costs £150 for annual road tax.
Most equivalent mainstream hatchbacks are even less of a tax burden such as the Hyundai i30 with CO2 emissions of 145g/km will cost £125 to tax. Although it may not be as powerful as the Impreza, at just £17,000 it is a much cheaper alternative.
With a costly purchase price and £150 road tax this won't be the first choice for most diesel drivers and it seems the Impreza diesel is one for the Subaru enthusiasts.
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