Sticks like ...

The traction is superb. I have driven several quattro-equipped Audi's and they literally feel like they are running on rails (and a pleasant feeling it is).

The sensation provided by Subara's all-wheel drive is more difficult to put into words because the feeling of sideways acceleration when cornering seems almost absent. I felt like I could turn corners at a 90-degree angle if I really wanted to.

Now with all that power and handling comes the need for good braking. No skimping in this area either. I took the car up to 100km/h and literally stomped on the brake pedal to test its reaction. There was no snaking, weaving or squealing of rubber. All that happened was that myself and my "co-driver" felt like fighter pilots undergoing G-force training as it came to a halt more rapidly than any other vehicle I have ever driven.

A thought entered my mind and I realised my passenger was in the same frame of mind when he blurted out in a quivering voice: "I thought my eyeballs were going to pop out of their sockets."

Good for the kids too

Despite all this handling and power ? or perhaps because of it ? the Impreza WRX sedan makes a great family car.

The cabin seats five very comfortably and the rows are perfectly suited for long trips. There are cup holders, plenty of storage space and even a CD/DVD/MP3/Satnav combo as an option. There's no need for anybody to get bored.

Safety includes dual; front, side-impact and curtain crash bags, three-point safety belts and side-impact protection.

All that and 420 litres of space in the boot to stuff all your goodies.

It's the perfect combination between practical family sedan and a thrill-inducing sports car.

Page three - Specifications and pricing