Ford Focus vs Subaru Impreza

For as red-hot and competitive as the economy-car segment is, success in this corner of the market is based on some pretty mundane variables. It comes down to things like fuel economy, price, number and location of cupholders, ride quality, and other items. It basically has to be economical, reliable transportation for the everyday commute. There are other nuances, such as the ease of use of its controls, but success in this segment requires automotive pragmatism at its best.

It's through this lens that we consider the 2016 Ford Focus. This 4-door, 5-passenger small car has been refreshed for this model year, building off the success of the third-generation car, which debuted in 2011. That was the first car under the “One Ford” plan, under which one car is sold on multiple continents in multiple markets with minimal changes.

The result of the plan was a car that was much more refined than the two generations before it and positioned the Focus for the past several years as the best American Small Car. That accolade is as much about the Focus’ refinement as it is about the deficiencies of American-made competitors, including the Dodge Dart and Chevrolet Cruze. A second-generation Cruze has recently been unveiled, but it’s still too early for us to render a verdict on that car. It is import rivals, such as the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic, and Hyundai Elantra, that pose the greatest threat to the new-look Focus.

If you’re looking for a sensible, all-wheel drive car, there are plenty of crossovers out there. But if a sedan or hatchback is more to your liking, the all-new 2017 Subaru Impreza is one of your only choices.

It’s also a great car. But chances are that you already know that. After all, Subaru has one of the highest owner loyalty rates of any vehicle brand. If you’re buying an Impreza, it probably isn’t your first Subaru—and it likely won’t be your last.

While the Impreza isn’t as refined as it could be, it is affordable, safe, and practical. And that’s why we think it will please both longtime Subaru fans and new owners alike.