Many people, and I do count myself among them, associate the Impreza name with the rally-inspired WRX but the two models are travelling very different roads these days.

The Impreza, in its current form, has been around since 2012, when it launched in Japan, but tough exchange rates delayed its arrival on these shores.

There are only two versions to choose from, both equipped with 1.6-litre flat four petrol engine, meaning the only choices are trim and gearbox.

There is a manual version, or the CVT-equipped model that I tested, which offers better fuel economy and emissions, but costs £1,500 more at £18,995.

Given the lack of engine choices it would appear, at first glance, that the Impreza doesn’t have a great deal to offer in comparison with its rivals in what is a particularly competitive sector but, and there is a but, the Subaru does have one ace up its wheel arches: Four wheel drive.

There’s lots of grip and traction, of course, though in normal conditions the four wheel drive makes very little difference but, at this price, it’s an attractive proposition for people living in some parts of the country. The ride is commendable, comfortable without being too soft and the Impreza's chassis handles what power there is with little difficulty.

The engine itself is capable enough, sounding similar as it does to the turbocharged STi’s power plant albeit much, much, much more muted. It’s reasonably refined at speed, as well, although that’s offset a bit by the road noise, which is a little intrusive.

The CVT gearbox performs admirably enough, until you go looking for that extra performance you need for overtaking. It’s there, but you have to look long and hard to find it. More often than not you’ll find yourself cursing the lack of a pair of flappy paddles behind the steering wheel. It can be a frustrating and tiresome experience summed up by the Impreza's lethargic 0-62mph time which is a leisurely 12.6 seconds.

The exterior styling is safe, rather than exciting, but there’s no shame in that. VW have used the same approach for years and there are hundreds of thousands of motorists who wouldn’t dream of driving anything else.

Inside the theme is similar. There’s no drama, no creative flourishes, but ergonomically it all works perfectly. There are chunky controls for everything – except the audio system, although even that is much better integrated than other models in the Subaru range – and the materials, while not quite up there with the very best in the sector, are of decent quality.

The seats are comfortable and there’s good head and legroom for passengers front and back and luggage space is a reasonable 380 litres with the rear seats in place, increasing to 1,270 litres with the seats folded flat. The boot lip is nice and low ensuring that accessing that space is nice and easy.

The Impreza arrived on these shores at a bit of a disadvantage but it would be foolish to write the Subaru off. The price is attractive, particularly with four wheel drive, and it also comes with Subaru’s reputation for building robust, durable cars. If you’re looking for a safe pair of hands – or in this case a safe quartet of wheels – then this might just be the car for you.

Subaru Impreza 1.6i RC Lineartronic

Price: £18,995

Engine: 1.6-litre flat four

Transmission: Lineartronic CVT

Power: 112bhp

Acceleration (0-62mph): 12.6sec

Maximum speed: 111mph

Urban: 37.2mpg

Extra urban: 54.3mpg

Combined: 46.3mpg

Emissions (CO2): 140g/km

For more information about Subaru cars click here.