hi well fuel consumption is not the best but if you seriously want to buy a impreza that should not come into the equation. recommended on here to change oil every 3 to 4k witch i will be doing for piece of mind and timing belt every 45k cost of servicing imo are very reasonable about the same price as what i was for my clio 172 ie 150 for i basic service and about 250 for a major one, timing belt change i think about 200 not too sure about that one, There is one thing i can say if you buy one you will love it mine puts a smile on my face every time i turn the key
hope this helps Greig