On a recent trip to the snow at Perisher, I had the opportunity to drive the latest Subaru Impreza 2.0I-S AWD. Impreza was the first of Subaru vehicles that moved across to their new global platform and heralded a significant change for Subaru as the multi-use platform underpins all new models now.
The Forester and the XV are now both on this platform.
The difference it makes it astounding with new levels of agility, crash protection, efficiency and driving experience.
So what did I like best about the Impreza?
Why I like the Driving Experience?
The Impreza is now on Subaru’s new global platform, which means it is slightly wider and longer as well as a lower centre of gravity.
The Impreza feels absolutely planted to the road. I drove the same stretch of road back to back with a competitor and the Impreza was quieter, had less tyre rumble, less wind noise and filtered more road imperfections. It absolutely felt as refined as a car costing many thousands of dollars more.
Combine this with the brilliant symmetrical AWD system with Active Torque Split and the chassis dynamics of the platform and you have class leading drive characteristics. For a standard hatchback the Impreza provides an engaging driving experience with direct responsiveness to driver inputs.
I would like more power though, to make the most of the dynamics.
What is good about the Safety Features?
All Subaru’s have a five start ANCAP Safety rating. However the Impreza goes beyond what is necessary for this. The level of technology in this vehicle
Starting with the chassis, which is more crash efficient than before with higher cabin strength that lays the foundation for better front, side and rear collision protection. The design also has excellent all round visibility.
Then there is the extensive driver assist safety features. Firstly is the symmetrical AWD system with Active Torque split that provides constant drive to all four wheels. Then there are a couple of different interacting systems starting with Vehicle Dynamic Control adding Active Torque Vectoring (ATV).
ATV helps the car turn better and improves response with steering and control. When the car is turning, VDC applies brakes to the inner front wheels, which routes more drive power to the outer wheels.
Add to this the EyeSight® driver assist and Vision Assist features and you have a safety package unmatched amongst its competitors.
What is the cabin ambience and driver ergonomics like
Open the door and hop inside and you immediately feel the subtle quality. Close the door and there is a subtle ‘thunk’ that just sounds good.
There are soft touch points everywhere and comfortable heated front seats. The layout of everything a driver needs to push, pull or turn all feels totally integrated. You also notice how quiet it is inside when driving.
The dials have a premium feel to them and the clarity of the touch screen is excellent. All round visibility is open. And the sunroof doesn’t impede head room at all.
Little things like the alloy pedals, and the relationship between brake and accelerator, the placement of the foot rest, detail stitching on the seats, centre arm rest, dash and doors all exude quality design.
The USB and 12V inputs are a little hard to access for larger hands though.
How is the Impreza packed with features?
The top spec 2.OI-S AWD is packed with the usual features you would expect in this segment plus more. These include: sunroof , heated front seats, 8 way electrically adjustable driver’s seat, dual zone fully automatic air conditioning, electric heated folding mirrors with integrated indicators, electronic sunroof, factory fitted SatNav powered by TomTom, automatic LED Steering Responsive Head lights (SRH) and LED daytime running lights (DRL), auto wipers and high beam, plus more.
How practical is the hatchback
Rear seats are definitely sculptured for two rather than three occupants. Access is relatively easy and head, shoulder and foot room is good for this class of vehicle. If the driver has their seat all the way back a taller passenger may feel restricted in knee room, but it is vastly improved from the previous model.
The seats fold flat in a 60/40 split and also have a comfortable recline function. Boot space is large at 345 – 795litres and with the hatch opening high and a low load sill, putting luggage etc. in is easy. There is also a cargo area light, handy hooks and a security blind.
It’s possible to load long and relatively bulky items back there with ease.
SUMMARY
Subaru Impreza is now in its fifth generation and without a doubt it’s the best model by far.
The vehicle has been transformed by the new global platform and the effect it has on body rigidity, ride and handling dynamics and quietness.
Impreza has an unbeatable advantage over others in the segment, that being the brilliant symmetrical AWD system.
I haven’t driven an Impreza for f few years and this is the first time for this model and I have to say that I’m pretty impressed. I would like more power, maybe the new 1.6L that they use in the Levorg would provide the extra oomph that the chassis would like.
In many aspects the Impreza is actually class leading and definitely worth a drive.
GOOD BITS
- Subtle style and sophistication
- Safety features (on top spec)
- Dynamic and compliant ride and handling
NOT SO GOOD BITS
- Would love a turbo version
- Some fiddly menu controls
- USB and 12V access is tight for larger hands
Also Look at
Model: Subaru Impreza 2.0I-S AWD
- Model Price: $29,960 MLP*
- Engine: 0L 4 Cylinder Boxer petrol
- Drivetrain: AWD Lineartronic CVT
- Power: 115kW @ 6000 rpm
- Torque: 196Nm @ 4000 rpm.
- Safety: 5 Star ANCAP
- CO2 Emissions: 162 gms/km
- Economy: 2 l/100km(ADR comb)
- Servicing: Fixed price
- Warranty: 5 years/unlimited kilometre 1 yrs. Roadside Assist
Subaru Impreza 2.0I-S AWD
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Rating
Summary
Subaru Impreza is now in its fifth generation and without a doubt it’s the best model by far.
The vehicle has been transformed by the new global platform and the effect it has on body rigidity, ride and handling dynamics and quietness.
Impreza has an unbeatable advantage over others in the segment, that being the brilliant symmetrical AWD system.
