Passing the test!
Kerry Chen’s 2004 Subaru Impreza isn’t the hot-rod WRX or STi version, but that hasn’t stopped her from entering the cult of Subaru ownership head-first. Having put her Subaru to the test she swears by it 100 per cent.
“I wanted a WRX first, but my father decided it was best that I start with a non-turbo model,” Chen told Auto.
She couldn’t have been happier as the self-defined free spirit spends her time on the road for work and travelling the paths less crossed in her free time. After three years of ownership, the Impreza has put up with everything she’s demanded of it and more.
“I go off-road all the time,” she explained.
Chen has dabbled in slight modifications and personalisation, but has found that in factory form the car was already just right for her, causing her to put it back to stock with the exception of a cold air intake.
“It just rides even better on the factory wheels,” she said.
Her proudest moment came when the humble sedan, famous for its symmetrical all-wheel drive system, bested several sport utility vehicles on a trip to Holywell. According to Judith Denton, sales and marketing manager, Kingston Industrial Garage, the local dealers for Subaru automobiles, such stories aren’t uncommon.
“The brand inspires so much confidence – there is a dedicated, focused pursuit in staying true to everything that is classic Subaru while constantly developing their innovations. Everything is carefully designed to perform extremely well, but always from a platform of safety, so in whatever conditions your Subaru will take you home,” she said.
Richard Panton, president of the Subaru Owners’ Club of Jamaica, understands the brand’s appeal to women and the fierce loyalty it generates.
“Safety, control and quality is synonymous with the brand. Driving a Subaru gives a level of confidence that women gravitate to,” he added.
The ruggedness and performance of her Impreza has cemented Chen with the brand and she looks forward to upgrading to her dream car the Subaru BRZ soon.