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The Impreza found in showrooms across the country is no longer the basis for the Subaru rally effort in various series around the world . The mantle has been picked up the Subaru Crosstrek ( which is based on the current Impreza ) and the Subaru WRX STI ( which has been based on the Impreza until this most recent generation version ). To this day , these two rally stars are continuing to build the brand ’ s record of success in this most gruelling form of racing . Meanwhile , the production Impreza is one of the most compelling compact cars in Subaru history .
When the latest Impreza debuted for the 2017 model year , the biggest news was that both the 4- and 5-door models were built on the Subaru Global Platform . This change brought significant improvements : The centre of gravity , already a selling point , was lowered a further 0.5 mm and structural rigidity increased by more than 70 percent over the previous model . Working from a stronger platform allowed the engineers to further refine the steering and suspension systems to create what is an incredibly dynamic compact car . The increased strength has also helped the Impreza maintain an impressive record with respect to crashworthiness ratings : For 13 consecutive years , from 2008-20 , the Impreza has been rated an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ( IIHS ) Top Safety Pick or greater .
Perhaps an even more impressive award came almost immediately after the debut of the latest Impreza : the Car of the Year Japan award for 2016-17 . Since 1980 , this prestigious award recognizes the single best new or redesigned vehicle available for sale in Japan . In earning this accolade , the Impreza outlasted two domestic market models ( the Nissan Serena and Daihatsu Move Canbus ) and two models sold in many international markets ( the BMW M2 and Acura NSX ). This wide range of competitors , from a microvan to a hybrid supercar , proves that the Impreza resonated with the jurors for its stellar all-around performance .
In addition to the Subaru Global Platform , a legendary AWD system and a rally-honed suspension system , the latest Impreza also shines a spotlight on a naturally aspirated 2.0L SUBARU BOXER 4-cylinder that ’ s almost completely reengineered from the previous version . The latest engine technology is at play here , resulting in efficient and responsive performance in all sorts of scenarios .
The engine ’ s Dual Active Valve Control System and direct fuel injection system combine to produce dynamic response low in the rev range , while the advanced intake system and free-flowing exhaust system create strong results at higher revs . Versions of the Impreza equipped with the Lineartronic ® Continuously Variable Transmission ( CVT ) are also fitted with the SI-DRIVE engine management system and its two driver-selectable modes , the more efficient Intelligent ( I ) mode or the more enthusiastic Sport ( S ) mode .
On all versions of the latest Impreza , the engine comes standard with Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle ( PZEV ) equipment , which reduces CO 2 tailpipe emissions to near zero without compromising performance in the least . A PZEV model is defined as having a gasoline-powered engine that meets the standards for a Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle , the strict standard required by the state of California .
To recap , the latest Subaru Impreza is unquestionably a compelling ride — one that combines a next-generation platform and advanced Subaru core technology to create class-leading performance . To complete the picture , the Impreza is surprisingly refined and well equipped on the inside , remarkable qualities for a model that starts just under $ 20,000 .
The passenger cabin is surprisingly spacious , with room for five adults . An increase to the length of the wheelbase resulted in more legroom for rear seat passengers , while changes to the design of the cargo area created more useable space for gear in both the 4- and 5-door version . Both models feature 60 / 40-split flat-folding rear seats to accommodate larger items , such as bicycles or large hockey bags .
The Impreza also features an impressive range of available infotainment systems . Even the standard system , focused around a 6.5-inch high-resolution multi-gesture capacitive touchscreen with swipe-and-scroll functionality , is impressive enough . This AM / FM / MP3 / WMA system includes Bluetooth ® mobile phone connectivity and streaming audio , dual USB ports / iPod ® control , auxiliary audio input and steering wheel integrated controls . The system is also Apple CarPlay ® and Android TM Auto compatible , a feature that is not always found on vehicles at this price point or higher .
Of course , if more equipment is your thing , there are seven different trim levels to choose from with the Impreza Sporttech with EyeSight ® topping the range . This model includes such standard features as sport-tuned suspension , 18-inch alloy wheels , Active Torque Vectoring , a larger trunk-lid spoiler ( for the 4-door ) and , of course , the award-winning Subaru EyeSight Driver-Assistance Technology . This is the beauty of the latest Subaru Impreza : Whether you want everyday transportation or a vehicle that transports you away from the everyday , the Impreza has every avenue covered .
One final note : The latest Subaru Impreza is not just an impressive vehicle from the start — it has long-term value and superior build quality baked right in . In the 2020 ALG Canadian Residual Value Awards , the Impreza captured the Best Compact Car award for the fourth consecutive year and 10th time over the past 12 years . What ’ s more , leading information services firm IHS Markit ® has determined that 95.8 % of Impreza models sold in Canada over the past 10 years are still on the road today — an incredibly strong statement of longevity .
Under normal circumstances , a new car is not considered a brilliant investment ; all things considered , though , the 2021 Subaru Impreza could be the exception to the rule .
30 six star magazine