New Subaru Impreza: 30 years and six generations later

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30 years and three million models sold later: Subaru introduced the new generation of the iconic Impreza at the auto show in Los Angeles (USA) last year; The first of its kind was presented here in 1992.

Subaru has sharpened the design of the compact Impreza for the next-generation model, giving it its first-ever improved in-house hybrid drive. We had the opportunity to try the new Impreza on a short test drive.

First time as a hybrid

Impreza shares its new drive with the renewed Crosstrek SUV. The Boxer gasoline engine delivers 136 hp (100 kW) and 194 Nm of torque, 14 hp less than before. The continuously variable CVT transmission also features a 17 hp (12 kW) electric motor that powers the Impreza on its own, even over short distances. The standard all-wheel drive is designed symmetrically, as is typical of the brand; The purpose of this is to ensure optimum weight distribution and therefore greater driving stability.

But the 1.6-tonne station wagon isn’t particularly lively or agile. The vehicle accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 10.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 199 km/h. The steering wheel is more direct than the previous model; We managed to navigate it by making a direct comparison. And on the asphalt handling test track with bumps and wet roads, the five-row car impresses with its greater stability.

Classic Subaru virtues

Subaru colors the Impreza’s exterior with a more streamlined look. Aerodynamics have been improved thanks to the active blades in the radiator grille and the new air flow through the radiator, which reduces consumption. Unlike the Crosstrek, Subaru saves on generous plastic panels on the body.

The interior of the compact car is in typical Subaru style: solid and solid. The most important innovation is the 11.6-inch touchscreen in portrait format, which can be used to control assistance systems and air conditioning.

Additionally, the new compact sedan receives the revamped “See” safety system with new functions: camera-based assistant, emergency braking system with collision warning in addition to lane departure warning system, adaptive distance and speed control and blind spot radar.

Just as a station wagon

In addition to suspension adjustments, the front seats have been redesigned to provide more support in the hip area. According to Subaru, head movements were also reduced by 44 percent, and road and engine noise were reduced by 50 percent. During our test drive, we immediately noticed something positive: In the previous model, you slide the seat back and forth in tight corners; Fast cornering is much more comfortable in the new model.

In the future, the five-door model will be available only as a station wagon, not just a sedan. The new Impreza celebrates its Swiss premiere alongside the Crosstrek at Auto Zurich at the beginning of November. Both are expected to hit dealers in January 2024. Prices for the new Impreza start from 36,850 francs.

Source: Blick