In the October issue of Consumer Reports, and online, we reviewed several sporty cars that go beyond the mainstream to deliver true driving excitement in compact packages: BMW 135i, Chevrolet Cobalt SS, Dodge Caliber SRT4, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, Subaru Impreza WRX, Subaru Impreza WRX STi, and Volkswagen R32.
Several of these cars scored very high in the class with impressive performance and packaging. Though, by definition, these vehicles each have very distinct personalities, and the raw numbers do not tell the full story.
We have rotated through the cars repeatedly, debating all the while over our preferences. It is a tough group, because often there is a car that appeals for a weekend and another that suits for the daily grind. Below, some editors and engineers share their personal takes on this entertaining group.
Jim Travers: Our October test group of sporty sedans and hatchbacks is a fun bunch to have around, and it includes a couple of cars I might actually want to have in my own driveway. That’s not always the case, given that our testing program is broad enough to include everything from family sedans to minivans to big SUVs. For my tastes, this has just been an especially good month.
At the top of my list is the Volkswagen R32. What a sweet car: Refined, comfortable, and quick. The all-wheel-drive R32 offers buckets of grip, it is fun to drive, and it even has hatchback practicality. Although still expensive at $33,630, the R32 is still thousands less than our BMW 135i, Subaru Impreza WRX STi, or Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR.
At the moment, the Evo is sitting in my driveway, and it’s not too shabby, either. On the other hand, it is kind of shabby, especially in terms of fit and finish, build quality, refinement, and various other things that most people might want out of a daily driver. Especially those without regular access to a track, where the Evo makes a bit more sense.
The R32, on the other hand, doesn’t kick you in the pants at every bump, isn’t spinning along on the north side of 3000 rpm at 65 mph, and has a well-executed interior in the VW tradition.
Eric Evarts: Unlike many of my automotive journalist colleagues, I’ve never been a devote BMW fan. Sure, there have been models I’ve liked—even loved. The Z8, the 1998 M coupe, the latest Z4 roadster, and even the current 535i have all been favorites. My experience with an old 2002 automatic left me unimpressed, though I did come to enjoy a certain 1983 320i. But the whole progression of 3 Series sedans and wagons that the rest of the automotive press corps has gone ga-ga over have left me cold.
However, the 135i we tested this month is the car all those recent 3 Series should have been. It wants to dance, wherever you go, but it is just as happy with either a smooth fox trot or a full-on break dance. The shifter is slick, the steering is lively, the handling is responsive, and power explosive. It’s always eager for you to punch the gas or throw it into a corner, yet never harsh, punishing, or abrupt if you don’t.
Really, if I were looking to put a 1 Series in my driveway, though, I’d skip the turbos and save $6,000 on the 128i. After all, I was happy with the underpowered 320i.
Jeff Bartlett: Reconciling these vehicles is a difficult task, as my needs and desires change through the week. And, as I’ve learned, my tastes have changed through the years. The previous-generation Lancer Evolution and WRX STi were thrill machines par excellence that could transform the most mundane drive into a blistering thrill ride that would end in either machine worship or prison. Having long crossed the 35-year-old milestone, the trade offs in noise, suspension punishment, notchy shifters, and general motoring brutality doesn’t carry the same luster it once did. (Yes, getting old sucks.)
The regular Impreza WRX with its more Buick-inspired suspension is entertaining for daily driving, though I do lament the loss of handling acumen. (Splitting this car into the Impreza 2.5GT and edgier WRX for 2009 makes tons of sense.)
The Sentra SE-R is the budget choice in this group, starting at about $20,000. Admittedly, it feels like an economy car given a quick aftermarket makeover. The benefit is a car with spunk, a few sporty details, and fuel economy that shames the force-fed cars in this group.
I agree with my colleagues: With a generous budget, both the engaging and livable 1 Series and R32 would be my choices. Bonus points go to the R32 for interior comfort, versatility, and AWD. Since budget is always an issue in my house, the Sentra SE-R stands out for its frugality and true four-passenger function. But, were I looking for a pure commuter in this class, it would be the base Mini Cooper.
For more on this sporty group, read the road tests and watch our review videos. Also, read Jon Linkov’s “Nit picking the BMW 135i.”
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