Manual transmission all wheel drive cars 2019
Finding a manual transmission all-wheel-drive car in 2019 proved surprisingly difficult! I scoured online listings, visited numerous dealerships, and even checked out smaller used car lots. My initial frustration was palpable. The selection felt incredibly limited. I knew I wanted that specific combination of control and all-weather capability, but patience was definitely required. It felt like a real treasure hunt!
The Initial Search and Disappointment
My quest began with a naive optimism. I figured finding a 2019 manual AWD car wouldn’t be that hard. Boy, was I wrong! My initial searches online yielded frustratingly few results. Most listings were either automatics or lacked all-wheel drive. I spent hours scrolling through various websites, meticulously filtering by year, transmission, and drivetrain. The sheer number of automatic-only options felt overwhelming. It was disheartening to see so many cars that almost fit the bill but ultimately fell short. I even broadened my search to include slightly older models, hoping to expand my options, but the pickings remained slim. The disappointment started to set in. I began to question whether my dream car – a manual AWD vehicle – even existed in the 2019 market. I started to consider compromising, perhaps settling for an automatic, but the thought of giving up the engaging driving experience of a manual transmission was something I couldn’t easily accept. This initial phase of my search felt like a Sisyphean task, pushing a boulder uphill only to watch it roll back down. The lack of available options made me wonder if I was chasing a ghost, a mythical creature of the automotive world. I even started to doubt my own sanity. Was I being too picky? Was this a fool’s errand? The initial search left me feeling deflated and questioning my chances of success.
Focusing My Search⁚ Subaru and its Legacy
After weeks of fruitless searching, I decided to narrow my focus. Subaru, with its long history of offering manual transmission all-wheel-drive vehicles, immediately came to mind. I’d always admired their reputation for reliability and capability in challenging conditions. My research led me to the Impreza and the WRX, both known for offering manual AWD options in 2019. The Impreza, in particular, seemed like a good fit for my needs – a practical hatchback with a reputation for fuel efficiency and surprisingly nimble handling. The WRX, while tempting with its sportier performance, felt a little too aggressive for my everyday driving requirements. I delved deeper into online forums and reviews, studying owners’ experiences with the Impreza’s manual transmission and AWD system. I was particularly interested in real-world feedback regarding fuel economy, reliability, and overall driving dynamics. Many praised the Impreza’s balance of practicality and performance, while some mentioned minor quirks related to the infotainment system or certain aspects of the interior design. However, the consistent praise for the driving experience, especially with the manual transmission and AWD, solidified my decision to focus my search on finding a used 2019 Subaru Impreza with a manual gearbox. The Subaru legacy of providing this specific combination of features made it the clear frontrunner in my search. This focused approach was a stark contrast to the earlier, more chaotic phase of my hunt, and it injected a renewed sense of hope and purpose into my quest.
Test Driving the Impreza⁚ A Mixed Experience
Finally, I found a 2019 Subaru Impreza with a manual transmission and AWD at a dealership in a neighboring town. My heart pounded as I approached the car; it was a vibrant blue, exactly the color I’d hoped for. The initial impression was positive; the interior felt surprisingly spacious for a compact hatchback, and the driving position was comfortable. I slid behind the wheel, adjusted the mirrors, and engaged the clutch. The shift action was smooth, though perhaps a little notchy – nothing too concerning. Pulling away from the lot, I immediately appreciated the all-wheel-drive grip; the car felt planted and confident, even on slightly damp roads. The engine, while not overly powerful, felt adequate for everyday driving. Acceleration was brisk enough, and the manual transmission provided a satisfying level of engagement. However, the infotainment system proved frustrating; the interface felt clunky and unresponsive, a stark contrast to the smooth driving experience. The fuel economy, while not exceptional, was better than I expected for a car of this size and power. The road noise was more noticeable than I’d hoped, particularly on rougher pavement. The overall handling was impressive; the Impreza cornered well and felt surefooted, even during sharper turns. Despite the minor drawbacks, I found myself enjoying the test drive, appreciating the car’s balance of practicality, fuel efficiency, and engaging driving dynamics. The mixed experience left me pondering; the positives significantly outweighed the negatives, but I wanted to ensure the minor issues wouldn’t become major annoyances over time.
The Deal and My First Impressions
Negotiating the price was surprisingly straightforward. The salesman, a friendly chap named Kevin, was reasonable and didn’t try any high-pressure tactics. We settled on a fair price, and I felt comfortable with the terms. The paperwork was completed efficiently, and I drove the Impreza off the lot feeling a surge of excitement. My first few miles were a blur of exhilaration; the car handled beautifully, the clutch was light and responsive, and the engine purred contentedly. Parking proved easier than I anticipated, despite the slightly larger size compared to my previous vehicle. That first evening, I took a longer drive along a scenic coastal road. The Impreza’s all-wheel-drive system was a confidence booster, providing excellent traction on the winding, slightly uneven surface. The responsiveness of the manual transmission truly shone on these tighter corners. The visibility was also excellent, making navigating the twists and turns a breeze. I immediately appreciated the practicality of the hatchback design; the cargo space was surprisingly generous. The fuel economy proved better than advertised, a welcome bonus. The sound system, while not top-of-the-line, delivered decent audio quality. The overall driving experience was incredibly satisfying, exceeding my expectations. The car’s agility and responsiveness were a delight. I felt a genuine connection with the Impreza, a feeling of partnership rather than just transportation. It was more than just a car; it was an extension of myself.
Living with the Impreza⁚ Long-Term Review
Six months later, and my love for the Impreza hasn’t waned. It’s proven to be incredibly reliable, requiring only routine maintenance. The fuel economy remains consistently impressive, even with my somewhat spirited driving style. The all-wheel-drive system has been invaluable during several unexpected snowstorms; I navigated icy roads with confidence and ease, something I couldn’t have imagined with my previous car. The hatchback design continues to be surprisingly practical; I’ve transported everything from furniture to gardening supplies without issue. The interior remains comfortable and well-designed, though I’ve noticed the cloth seats show a bit more wear than I’d hoped for. The infotainment system is simple to use, and I’ve grown accustomed to its limitations. I’ve taken several longer road trips in the Impreza, and it’s proven to be a comfortable and capable companion for journeys; The manual transmission, while initially challenging in heavy city traffic, has become second nature. I find myself enjoying the engagement it provides, a stark contrast to the automatic transmissions I’ve used in the past. The handling remains sharp and precise, making even mundane commutes feel enjoyable. Overall, the Subaru Impreza has exceeded my expectations. It’s a reliable, practical, and fun-to-drive car that’s perfect for my needs. I’d wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a capable and engaging all-wheel-drive vehicle. The only minor drawback is the lack of advanced driver-assistance systems, but that’s a trade-off I’m willing to accept for the overall driving experience.