Big picture

• Winnipeg winters and rough alleys: Crosstrek wins on ground clearance and newer safety.
• Tight budget and simpler mechanics: older Impreza can be fine if the big maintenance items are done.

What they are

• Impreza hatch 2010: compact AWD hatch, 2.5L non-turbo, 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto. Lower, more car-like.
• Crosstrek 2016 Limited: lifted Impreza wagon with 2.0L non-turbo and CVT. Limited trim adds leather, heated seats, camera, and often driver aids if optioned.

Powertrain and upkeep

• Impreza 2.5L EJ253: about 170 hp. Timing belt due around 168k km with water pump and pulleys. Known risks: external head-gasket seep on some cars, rusty brake lines in salt, rear wheel bearings.
• Crosstrek 2.0L FB20: about 148 hp. Timing chain (no scheduled belt job). Better fuel economy. Watch for CVT service history, rear wheel bearings, front suspension bushings. Some early FB20s had oil consumption complaints; 2016 is improved but still verify.

Drivability and winter use

• Impreza: lower stance, tighter feel, less clearance. Still very good in snow with proper tires.
• Crosstrek: about 220 mm ground clearance, easier entry, better approach angles. Nicer on ruts, snowbanks, cottage roads.

Interior and tech

• Impreza: older infotainment, fewer safety features.
• Crosstrek Limited: modern amenities, backup camera, Bluetooth, heated seats. EyeSight driver assist may be present depending on options.

Space and utility

• Impreza: adequate hatch space.
• Crosstrek: a bit more cargo room, roof rails, and a taller load floor which is handy for gear.

Fuel and costs

• Impreza: worse mileage, cheaper to buy, but watch for the belt job and any gasket work.
• Crosstrek: better mileage, likely higher purchase price. CVT fluid changes and good records matter.

The specific Crosstrek you found

• 2016 Limited AWD, 188,293 km, 13,988 CAD in Winnipeg
  What to check:
  • CVT: proof of fluid service and smooth engagement on a cold start.
  • Engine: oil level after a long test drive and again next day.
  • Suspension and bearings: listen for hums or clunks at 60 to 90 km/h while turning.
  • Rust: rear subframe, rockers, wheel arches, brake lines.
  • Brakes and tires: all four tires must be closely matched on Subarus.

If you look at a 2010 Impreza

• Ask for: timing belt and water pump receipt, head-gasket history, brake line condition, rear wheel bearings, subframe and rocker rust.
• Prefer a car with recent belt job done by date and mileage, not just “claimed.”

Quick decision guide

• Choose Crosstrek if you value winter clearance, newer features, and comfort, and the CVT history is solid.
• Choose Impreza if you want lowest entry cost, are OK with older tech, and you can verify that the belt and any gasket issues are handled.

Non-negotiables before buying either

• Full service records and a pre-purchase inspection.
• Cold start test, highway test, and a scan for stored codes.
• Four matching tires within a few millimeters of tread depth.
• Walk away from rust you can poke through or a missing CVT service trail.