The new generation 2012 Subaru Impreza is finally unveiled in New York, featuring a new design inside and out plus new engines and transmissions.
The fourth-generation Impreza is inspired by the magnificent concept car of the last Detroit motorshow in terms of design. Subaru believes the new bolder design is a sign of their high confidence in the car. All its features such as new hexagonal grille, hawk-eye headlights and wide arches are designed to give the car a distinctive character. It looks good, even in the estate form which looks very much like the XV concept.
The new Impreza’s wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches (compared to 103.2 in the outgoing model), while length and width measurements remain the same. The spacious interior is complemented with better quality, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and centre console armrest, and better practicality. The 5-door hatchback will benefit from increased luggage space and now provides a completely flat load floor with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded. The new Impreza also has lot of useful cubbyholes inside the cabin.
Levels of standard equipment have been increased across the range. All models are set to feature electric windows and mirrors, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display, engine immobilizer, and tilt/telescopic steering wheel. Higher spec models will add more kit including 16 or 17 inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth® controls, heated front seats and mirrors, climate control, upgraded instruments and auto lights. Impreza’s new optional navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display with voice control.
As for the powertrains, the car will launch (UK) with a 4-cylinder 1.6 litre Boxer petrol engine available with either a new five-speed manual transmission or Subaru’s Lineartronic CVT. Higher spec models also get steering wheel paddle shifters. New Impreza will benefit from improved ride and handling courtesy of strengthened suspension components in front and rear and new hydraulic engine mounts to damp out vibration.
Of course no matter which model you go for, you get the magnificent Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive. It comes in two versions: In models equipped with the five-speed manual, the Continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling to distribute power 50/50 front to rear, while the CVT models feature the Active Torque Split AWD version that uses a continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.
2012 Impreza will also come as standard with Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (SVDC) – a system which combines stability and traction control functions – while all models are equipped with ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.
Pricing for the new model will be announced closer to launch. As for the WRX STI, the current versions remain in business for now until Subaru is ready to announce a new model.
