The all-new Impreza Hatchback doesn't differ much from the outgoing car in terms of its overall design identity, but it would be an injustice not to acknowledge that it now comes in a decidedly different flavor, drawing heavily on the larger Subaru Legacy.
Subaru's new five-door hatchback Impreza does start from scratch with an all-new 2.0-liter, 148-horsepower Boxer engine. Although well down on power from last year’s 2.5-liter 170-horsepower engine, the new engine helps the Impreza net a vastly improved 36 mpg on the highway compared to last year’s maximum of 27 mpg. In fact, the new car’s 26 mpg city fuel economy matches the outgoing model’s 26 mpg highway when equipped with an automatic.
All-wheel-drive is still standard across the line, while base models gain a five-speed manual transmission and a CVT is a new option. A conventional automatic transmission is no longer an option for the Impreza. The 27/36 mpg fuel economy figures apply to both CVT and manual Imprezas.
Inside, Subaru says that passenger space is greater than before, thanks in part to a slightly longer 104.1-inch wheelbase. An all-new dashboard features more upscale materials and design than before, including a new navigation system display. Subaru moved the car’s A-pillar a full 7.9 inches forward from its previous location, which increases front passenger room and helps out with ingress and egress.
The hatcback also enjoys the benefits of a fully flat floor for cargo hauling when all seats are folded down.
The new Impreza comes in five trim configurations – base, Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited.
Base models feature power windows and locks, an outside temperature gauge and a trip computer, while Premium trim adds 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth controls, a rear stabilizer bar and a handful of other upgrades. Heated seats and a moonroof are optional for Premium models.
Sport Premium trim adds 17-inch alloy wheels, heated seats, fog lamps, roof rails and revised seat trim. Opt for Limited specification and the Impreza will include leather seats.
Impreza Premium, Sport and Limited models with the CVT also feature a six-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios.
As is the case with all Subaru's current model year vehicles, the new Impreza Hatchback is an IIHS "Top Safety Picks." The new body structure makes greater use of high-tensile strength steel and features special stiffening elements at key locations.
Both Impreza models add a new driver’s knee airbag to the roster of safety features, while the passenger-seat front airbag features a shell-type design with a center groove, helping to reduce impact force upon deployment.
Key competitors
The Subaru Impreza Hatchback is a bit of an odd one as it is larger than most competitors in the compact segment, giving up fuel economy for space when compared to the Ford Focus Sedan, Honda Civic Sedan, Mazda Mazda3 or Toyota Corolla - but making up for it with added space and all-wheel drive.