The new 2017 Subaru Impreza isn’t just a completely re-engineered compact-class car; it is a messenger of change for this Japanese carmaker. The Impreza introduces a more expressive design language that includes a more raked angle to the windshield, a lower rear roofline, wheel arches and sculpted sides. The rear looks wider and lower with repositioned taillights, which also allow for a 4-inch wider trunk opening on the sedan and a 5-inch wider opening on the hatchback.
The interior has more premium materials and plastics, more soundproofing (including thicker side glass and windshield) and a quieter fan and air conditioning system. It also has the first new door handles in 17 years. There is more front headroom (39.8 inches), more back seat legroom and enough trunk space for three golf bags. Infotainment and connectivity features include 4G internet, Apple CarPlay and Tom Tom navigation. There are three audio units with 6.5- to 9-inch display screens, including an upgrade for a Harman Kardon Green Edge system.
Performance is now at the highest level in the history of Subaru — “near sports car level,” the marketers say, making the Impreza faster than the sporty BRZ coupe. A revised 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine adds direct fuel injection and other enhancements, raising horsepower to 152 from 148. Fuel economy is up by about 1 mpg for the entry-level sedan with CVT ratings of 28 mpg city, 38 highway and 32 combined, on 87 octane. The Hatchback Sport is rated 27/35/30 mpg.
In highline models, the Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT, has a seven-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters. The steering response is quicker and more fluid with active torque vectoring to help keep the front end pointed on the driver’s intended path. Four-wheel disc braking has a more responsive pedal feel.
Safety was a priority in the redesign. Features include seven air bags, a rearview camera and a suite of advanced technologies for driver-assistance systems. The optional EyeSight package includes adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, lane-departure warning and sway warning. Blind-spot detection with lane-keep assist and rear cross-traffic alert are available. Also new are (optional) turning headlights and automatic high-beam assist. Rear automatic braking detects large objects and reacts from 1 to 9 mph.
The new Impreza is a solid value that pushes limits, raises expectations and pulls away from old ideas. Find yours today at Five Star Subaru of Grapevine at 2651 William D. Tate Avenue in Grapevine, Texas today!
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