After Subaru teased us with the concept, the final product certainly looks impressive!
Subaru claims that the new U.S-spec Impreza will “Redefine value and class”. Focusing on improving environmental friendliness, Subaru has improved fuel efficiency and emissions with its third generation boxer engine and the new Lineartronic transmission.
On the inside, there is more interior space with improved comfort and quality despite not having a large increase in the car's exterior size. Like the current Impreza, the new car will come in four and five door variants. Both of them feature a redesigned interior to improve field of vision and heighten the sense of spaciousness.
Powered by a third generation two litre boxer engine that delivers 148 hp and 196 Nm of torque though a brand new Lineartronic CVT or a five speed manual gearbox, the new car promises to deliver a feeling of instant acceleration. While the manual models feature incline start assist, the Lineartronic option gets a six speed manual mode with paddle shifters, promising to deliver a better driving experience than other automatic sports cars.
The new Impreza also features a stiffer chassis that is designed to deliver a comfortable drive with lively handling. The suspension has been tweaked to improve straight line as well as cornering stability. The rear sub-frame has also been stiffened up for better twist resistance, which translates to better steering tracking.
The trademark All-Wheel Drive system will be complimented with Subaru's VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), which will be installed in all models as standard. With improved intervention timing, its control logic is said to be more effective. The new Impreza also incorporates a brake assist function into the VDC system.
“We will further strengthen the Subaru brand through the new brand statement 'confidence in motion', and we will provide customers with new levels of 'enjoyment and peace of mind' said Ikuo Mori, President, Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd (FHI). Like the concept, the new Impreza is the first car to be released under the new branding strategy.
