New for 2017
The Impreza gets a complete redesign for 2017. It rides on a new platform and features updated styling and technology features.
New and Improved
Subaru has built itself a profitable niche over the past few years as a maker of all-wheel drive cars with a distinctive character. But as it chases ever greater sales, Subaru needs to balance the demands of a wider audience with the qualities that made its cars desirable in the first place. The 2017 Subaru Impreza attempts to do that, setting the tone for Subaru models to come with a new, stiffer platform, added technology, and more expressive styling.
Performance
The 2017 Subaru Impreza keeps the mechanical elements Subaru is known for, specifically all-wheel drive and a boxer engine. All-wheel drive gives the Impreza handling and foul-weather capabilities front-wheel drive compacts can only dream of, while the boxer sits lower in the chassis to improve weight distribution, further improving handling.
The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine gains direct injection and other enhancements, helping boost output from the 148 horsepower of the previous generation to 152 hp. In the name of fuel efficiency, the 2017 Impreza will launch with a CVT automatic transmission like the ones used in most other Subaru models. Higher trim levels feature a seven-speed manual mode with paddle shifters. A manual transmission may be offered on the Impreza at some point as well.
Helping to make the most of its powertrain, the redesigned Impreza rides on the new Subaru Global Platform, which will eventually underpin nearly every Subaru model. The new unibody platform is 70 percent stiffer than before, and allows for a lower center of gravity according to Subaru. Revised suspension also reduces body roll by 50 percent, according to the carmaker. EPA fuel-economy ratings will be released closer to the 2017 Impreza's launch.
Features
The 2017 Subaru Impreza will be offered as a four-door sedan or five-door hatchback. It goes on sale later this year in four trim levels, with pricing to be announced closer to the on-sale date.
Even the base Impreza 2.0i should represent a pretty good value, with standard features like a 6.5-inch touchscreen display, Android Auto™ and Apple CarPlay® compatibility, power windows and door locks, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, multifunction display, tilt and telescoping steering column, and other features.
The 2.0i Premium includes those standard features, and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, heated front seats, heated windshield, heated exterior mirrors, automatic headlights, and standard roof rails on the hatchback model. Optional features on the Premium include a power moonroof and various driver aids.
Stepping up to the 2.0i Sport adds sportier suspension tuning, torque vectoring all-wheel drive, 18-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, a rear spoiler on the sedan, upgraded interior trim with red contrast stitching, 8.0-inch touchscreen display, pushbutton start, aluminum pedals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, shifter, and shifter boot.
The top Impreza trim level is the 2.0i Limited, which includes standard features like steering-responsive LED headlights, model-specific 17-inch alloy wheels, chrome exterior trim, leather interior, six-way power driver’s seat, and automatic climate control. An optional Harman Kardon® premium audio system is available on both the Sport and Limited models, while a navigation system is available only on the Limited.
Design
The 2017 Subaru Impreza advertises its redesigned platform with sleeker exterior styling. The Impreza incorporates Subaru’s latest design language, with features like a hexagonal grille and “hawk-eye” headlights. The body sides are also more sculpted, with more prominent wheel arches and curvier lines. All Impreza models ride 0.4 inch lower than before, helping lower the coefficient of drag, Subaru says.
Both the sedan and hatchback ride on a 105.1-inch wheelbase, up 1.0 inch from the previous generation. They are 1.6 inches longer than the previous-generation models, and 1.5 inches wider. Those increases yield a roomier cabin, and Subaru says the new model retains the previous generation’s excellent outward visibility.
The 2017 Impreza also boasts a greater array of technology features. All versions come with a central touchscreen display and Subaru’s Starlink infotainment system, as well as Bluetooth®, iPod connectivity, Near Field Communication, and Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the 2017 Subaru Impreza includes anti-lock brakes, stability and traction controls, a rearview camera, and a full array of airbags. Optional features include the Subaru EyeSight® system that bundles adaptive cruise control, automatic pre-collision braking, lane departure and sway warning, and lane keep assist. Certain versions add blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert. Reverse pre-collision braking and an upgraded tire pressure monitoring system are available as well.
Verdict
The 2017 Subaru Impreza is a genuine improvement over its predecessor, and maintains its unmistakable Subaru character.
Be sure to contact us online or visit us at our Heritage Volkswagen Subaru to schedule a test drive.
Image Credit: Subaru
