Subaru presents a modified new edition of its compact model Impreza – but so far only in the USA. It will be a while before she gets to Germany. The changes are both technically and visually manageable.
At the LA Auto Show (until November 27), Subaru is introducing the sixth generation of its compact model Impreza. Like generation five, the new edition is based on the Subaru Global platform. Visually and technically, the changes made by the Japanese are cautious. Generation six will be launched in the USA in spring 2023, and it should be available in Germany around the turn of the year 2023/24.
Visually, the changes to the body, which has grown slightly to 4.48 meters in length, are manageable. New features are a three-dimensional front styling with smaller LED headlight units, a new radiator grille design and modified air vents in the lower front apron. The two-piece rear lights are also characterized by refined styling.
The most important new feature in the interior is an 11.6-inch portrait touchscreen in the center of the center console. Vehicle functions such as automatic air conditioning or assistance systems can be set via the display. The new Impreza’s improved Eyesight system is designed to recognize pedestrians and cyclists at intersections earlier and prevent collisions via automatic braking interventions.
Also new are an extended blind spot radar and an emergency steering system. The new Impreza also warns of children accidentally left in the back. Android Auto or Apple Carplay are integrated wirelessly.
In LA, the new Impreza celebrates its debut with two boxer engines. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine has an output of 113 kW/154 hp, while the 2.5-liter engine has an output of 136 kW/185 hp. The small petrol engine is coupled with a CVT transmission and all-wheel drive. An eight-speed automatic is available for the 2.5.
Changes to the chassis and more torsional rigidity, in combination with improved torque vectoring of the four-wheel drive and more direct steering, are intended to provide more agile handling. At the same time, the new setup of the Impreza should have a positive effect on comfort and noise development.
With which drives and at what prices the new Impreza will come to Germany is not yet known. The basic version with an 84 kW/114 hp 1.6-liter petrol engine is currently starting in Germany at prices from around 26,000 euros. The new edition is likely to be more expensive.
