Subaru Impreza Summary
The Subaru Impreza is one of the most reliable compact cars on the market, with consistently high safety ratings to give you peace of mind while you're behind the wheel. Both the sedan and hatchback models provide a smooth and stable ride in all road conditions, thanks to its sturdy full-time all-wheel drive and well-engineered suspension. There have been some reports that the engine lacks power at lower gears, but overall the Impreza is impressive for a small car. You can choose from a 1.6 L or 2 L boxer engine, which have a lower centre of gravity and increase stability overall.
Subaru Impreza Safety
The Impreza is big on safety. For starters, even on old models, like 2007, the car has side airbags, which got it a five-star rating on front-passenger safety. It also comes with anti-lock braking system (ABS) as standard to help control the car in the event of skidding.
New for 2019, the EyeSight driver assist system uses two cameras and an array of sensors to automatically keep the car in its lane and run a safe distance from other cars. Some say that the rear spoiler reduces visibility out of the rear window, but drivers can always use the standard rearview camera to safely back up.
Subaru Impreza Interior
Later models of the Impreza, from 2015, feature air conditioning, electric windows and a rearview camera as standard—the latter first became optional in 2013. Other features are available as options in newer cars, including:
- Tilt/telescoping steering wheel, so you can adjust the angle and distance of the wheel to your liking
- Paddle shifters to shift gears from the sides of the steering wheel
- Leather upholstery
- Heated front seats
Subaru Impreza Technology
The 2013 Impreza introduced the USB port and Bluetooth connectivity as standard, and each year has seen improvements in the in-car infotainment system. Depending on the trim you choose, you'll have access to the following features:
- Touchscreen
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility
- Subaru STARLINK technology, for connecting mobile devices and accessing apps
- Satellite radio
Earlier models such as the 2008 came standard with a CD/MP3 player and full power accessories, with an upgraded audio system, satellite radio and navigation available on the Premium package.
Subaru Impreza Space
The Subaru Impreza has a spacious cabin with lots of headroom for all passengers and ample legroom for those in the back, including a large space under the front seats for their feet. Just fold down the 60/40-split rear seats if you are in need of more cargo space. In later models from 2017 and onwards, the sedan has a 12.3-cubic-foot trunk while the hatchback features more cargo volume as well, with 20.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 55.3 cubic feet with them folded.
Subaru Impreza Comfort
All models since 2007 make use of control-arm suspension, with a stabilizer bar mounted directly to the rear of the body, which makes for comfortable handling and a smooth ride. On models from 2016 and onwards, ergonomic seats provide good support, for a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. There are some reports that the continuously variable transmission (CVT) can be noisy while accelerating, which can detract from your comfort when in the driver's seat, but improved sound insulation glass on more recent models will keep noise to a minimum.
