Subaru’s new 2012 Impreza is the fourth-generation of the popular compact – and like the prior models, it contains a “boxer” engine, real all-wheel drive and delivers great fuel economy – all for under $23K – even for the most equipped model. Impreza also is the foundation platform for the blistering-fast Impreza WRX.
Powered by a new 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a five-speed manual (tested) or Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Impreza offers the best fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in – 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Every Subaru, including Impreza, is equipped standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.
Subaru’s AWD is likely the best system available on any car, at any price. It’s symmetrical – which means all four wheels get dynamically-controlled equal power. On most other AWD cars, power is bias to the front wheels, with very little to the rear wheels. Subaru’s system is so good that Colorado and other states with bad winter weather are places they sell the best. AWD also helps control the car on dry pavement.
Driving the Impreza is impressive. The interior is comfortable and offers what you’d expect, with some added extras. Our manual-shifting test car was fun to drive and easy to like. Subaru does all of the important stuff exceptionally well, such as steering response, braking, acceleration and overall car control. The new 2.0-liter Boxer engine feels even more responsive than the 2.5-liter engine it replaces, providing plenty of power whenever you want it.
The Impreza is offered in base, Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited models. All models are equipped with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control functions. Likewise, all models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.
The base model features a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power windows, door locks and side mirrors, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display with fuel economy information, remote keyless entry system, security system with engine immobilizer, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, variable intermittent windshield wipers and a low windshield washer fluid warning light. Even carpeted floormats, often an option in many cars, come standard with every Impreza.
The Premium model adds 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth control switches, a rear stabilizer bar for crisper handling, adjustable console armrest, body-color exterior mirrors and chrome interior door handles. The standard audio system in the Premium models features Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, Radio Data Broadcast System, iPod control capability, USB port, input jack and six speakers. An optional All-Weather Package adds heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.
A power moonroof and a navigation system are available for the Premium models. The new navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display, voice control, iTunes tagging, SMS text messaging capability, XM Satellite Radio and XM NavTraffic. Updated map data can be downloaded to a personal computer and then transferred into the system via secure digital (SD) card.
The Impreza Sport Premium is a five-door model that combines standard 17-inch alloy wheels and the All-Weather Package with fog lights, roof rails, unique seat fabric and rocker panel spoilers.
Topping the 2012 Impreza range, the Limited and Sport Limited models deliver the highest level of comfort and convenience. Leather seating, the All-Weather Package and Alloy Wheel Package are standard. A further audio upgrade features a 4.3-inch display screen and standard HD Radio. The navigation system and power moonroof are options.
Pricing starts at $17,495 and tops-out at $22,595 for the Sport Limited model. Warranty includes 3-year, 36,000 mile coverage. Rivals include cars like the Mazda3 and the Ford Focus – but no rival offers anything as good as this Subie’s AWD system. For more information, see your local Subaru dealer or visit subaru.com.