Subaru Impreza Review: The Underdog Compact That Defies Expectations
In the competitive compact car segment dominated by household names like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Subaru Impreza has long played the underdog. However, the latest generation brings meaningful improvements that make it a compelling choice for buyers prioritizing all-wheel drive capability and safety technology in an affordable package.
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Key Specifications at a Glance
- Engine: 2.0L 4-cylinder Boxer (152 hp, 145 lb-ft)
- Transmission: 5-speed manual (base) or CVT automatic
- Drivetrain: Standard Symmetrical AWD
- Fuel Economy (hatchback): 28/37/31 mpg (city/hwy/combined)
- Cargo Space: 20.8 cu-ft (hatch), 12.3 cu-ft (sedan)
- Starting MSRP: $19,215 (sedan), $19,715 (hatchback)
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A Complete Redesign on Subaru's Global Platform
The current-generation Impreza represents a significant leap forward as the first model built on Subaru's innovative Global Platform. This architecture delivers:
- 70% greater body rigidity for improved handling and crash safety
- 40% better collision energy absorption compared to the previous model
- Reduced noise and vibration for a more refined ride
- Shared components that will eventually underpin all Subaru models
Available in both sedan and hatchback configurations (with the hatchback accounting for 60% of sales), the Impreza grows slightly in all dimensions while maintaining its practical proportions.
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Exterior Design: Shedding the Economy Car Image
Gone are the bland lines of previous Imprezas. The current model features:
- A wider, lower stance with muscular wheel arches
- Distinctive character lines along the body sides
- Signature Subaru hexagonal grille with chrome accents
- LED headlights with "hawkeye" styling (standard on higher trims)
- Available 18-inch alloy wheels on Limited models
While not as aggressively styled as some competitors, the Impreza now projects a more upscale, cohesive appearance that stands out in the compact class.
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Interior Quality: A Tale of Two Trims
The Impreza's cabin experience varies dramatically by trim level:
Base/Premium Trims
Entry-level models feature:
- Hard plastic surfaces throughout most of the cabin
- Questionable faux-metal plastic accents
- Cloth seats with basic adjustment options
- Functional but uninspired design elements
Limited Trim
The top-tier model offers:
- Leather upholstery with contrast stitching
- Padded surfaces on frequently touched areas
- Higher-quality trim materials
- 8-way power driver's seat with memory function
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
All models benefit from improved ergonomics and more supportive seats than previous generations, making long drives more comfortable.
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Technology & Infotainment: Finally Competitive
Subaru's previous multimedia systems were a weak point, but the new generation shows marked improvement:
Standard Features Across All Trims
- 6.5-inch touchscreen display
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Bluetooth connectivity with audio streaming
- USB ports (quantity varies by trim)
- Rearview camera
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Higher trims add:
- 8-inch touchscreen with navigation
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Additional USB ports (including rear-seat)
- SiriusXM satellite radio
The system features intuitive menus, physical tuning/volume knobs, and quick response times—addressing previous complaints about Subaru's infotainment.
Practicality & Cargo Space
The Impreza offers respectable interior dimensions:
| Model | Front Legroom | Rear Legroom | Cargo Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impreza Sedan | 43.1 in | 36.5 in | 12.3 cu-ft |
| Impreza Hatchback | 43.1 in | 36.5 in | 20.8 cu-ft |
| Honda Civic Sedan | 42.3 in | 37.4 in | 14.8 cu-ft |
While not class-leading, the Impreza provides comfortable space for four adults (five in a pinch) and versatile cargo configurations with 60/40 split-folding rear seats.
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Driving Experience: Improved But Still an Underdog
The Impreza's standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive gives it a unique advantage in inclement weather, but how does it perform in daily driving?
Powertrain Performance
The 2.0L Boxer engine delivers:
- 152 horsepower (+5 over previous gen)
- 145 lb-ft of torque
- Linear power delivery typical of Subaru's Boxer engines
- Improved but still noticeable CVT drone under acceleration
While adequate for daily commuting, the Impreza feels underpowered compared to turbocharged rivals like the Honda Civic (180 hp) or Hyundai Elantra (201 hp in N Line trim).
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Ride and Handling
Where the Impreza shines:
- Composed ride quality that absorbs bumps effectively
- Precise steering with good feedback
- Confident cornering with minimal body roll
- Excellent traction in all conditions thanks to standard AWD
The Global Platform's increased rigidity contributes to a more planted, refined driving experience than previous generations.
Fuel Efficiency: The Price of AWD
All-wheel drive typically comes with a fuel economy penalty. How does the Impreza compare?
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subaru Impreza (CVT) | 28 | 38 | 32 |
| Honda Civic (CVT) | 31 | 40 | 34 |
| Mazda3 (AWD) | 24 | 32 | 27 |
While trailing front-wheel-drive competitors, the Impreza delivers respectable efficiency considering its standard AWD system—and outperforms other AWD compact cars.
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Safety: A Subaru Hallmark
Subaru's reputation for safety continues with the Impreza:
Standard Safety Features
- Rearview camera
- Advanced airbag system
- Electronic stability control
- Brake assist
Available EyeSight Driver Assist Technology
This optional package includes:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Pre-collision braking
- Lane departure warning
- Lane keep assist
- Lead vehicle start alert
Additional available safety tech includes:
- Reverse automatic braking
- Steering-responsive headlights
- High beam assist
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
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Pricing & Value Proposition
The Impreza's standard AWD gives it unique value in the compact segment:
| Model | Base Price | AWD Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Subaru Impreza | $19,215 | Standard |
| Honda Civic | $20,345 | Not available |
| Mazda3 | $19,930 | $1,400 option |
| Toyota Corolla | $19,425 | $1,300 option |
When comparing similarly equipped models with AWD, the Impreza often represents a significant value advantage.
