2 May 2012
At long last it reached our shores
After a long wait due to production delays as a result of Japan’s devastating tsunami, the new Subaru Impreza has finally been introduced into New Zealand.
Previous generations of the Impreza model have always been admired as small pocket rockets and the new fourth generation with increased body dimensions and a more efficient engine is set to change this perception.
Subaru continues to use the reliable boxer motor and AWD configuration in the new vehicle. The 2.0L DOHC naturally aspirated engine with stop/start technology and dual active valve control system (ACVS), meets the stringent EURO 5 emission standards.
With the benefit of Subaru’s acclaimed AWD system, Impreza has a distinct advantage over competitor vehicles. From the family snow field holiday to the daily commute, this car is capable of being a good all rounder that makes easy work on the unforgiving winter roads.
Traditional Subaru fashion
The hawke eye headlights and the revised front end treatment continue the Subaru family theme, with resemblances to recent Legacy models. Two body styles are available, hatchback and sedan.
Thanks to the increased wheel base, the interior has gained extra space. The cabin has good quality trim adding to a more sophisticated feel. The redesigned A-pillar along with the big mirrors assists with increasing driver visibility.
Four models equipped with the 2.0L boxer engine and the AWD system are available, with gearbox options being the impressively smart Lineartronic (CVT) transmission with paddle shifters located behind the steering wheel and a six speed manual transmission with optional hill start assist.
Creature comfort options include leather upholstery, satellite-navigation, reversing camera, sunroof and 16 inch or 17 inch alloy wheel rims.
Passive safety features include seven airbags, seatbelt indicators, ISOFIX adapted child seat anchorages with tether points. Active safety features include VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control), BA, EBD and ABS. As we have come to expect from modern cars, it has achieved a five star ANCAP crash test rating.
The big, small car for all seasons
Driving down the unforgiving twisty roads provided some degree of fun with satisfactory power on tap. The AWD assists with traction on slippery surfaces and makes for a confident and safe driving experience. It proved to have good overall handling capabilities and a comfortable well balanced suspension setup.
The new 2.0L motor produces a satisfactory 110kW of power and 196Nm torque with a claimed fuel economy of 6.8L/100km (CVT) and 7.1L/100km (Manual), an impressive figure considering the engine drives all four wheels. CO2 emissions are 164g/km for the manual and 157g/km for the Lineartronic (CVT) transmission.
Prices range from $34,990 and $44,990 for the six speed manual options, $36,990 and $46,990 for the SLT (CVT) options.
Boot space is a decent 460L for the sedan and 340L for the hatch version, with the hatch having a 60/40 split folding rear seat allowing for some extra loading space. With a conservative new look Impreza is sure to attract buyers looking for that extra edge in a reasonably small car.
For the enthusiast still looking for top performance in a small car, the 2011 WRX and WRX STI models remain on the pricelist for now and still boast the 2.5L turbo charged boxer engine and smaller body. Revisions to these models are likely to take place at the end of year 2013.