Subaru’s smart compact Impreza is being updated and will be released in Fall 2011 for the 2012 model year. Available in four door sedan and five door hatchback, the all-wheel-drive Impreza offers impressive handling, a decent ride and if forecasts for the upcoming model year are correct, exceptional fuel economy.
Smallest Subaru
The Impreza is the smallest model sold by Subaru, a niche maker of all-wheel-drive cars. Every model Subaru makes is powered by all four wheels, giving its vehicles an edge that few other vehicles have. That edge, however, comes at a slight price premium and reduction in fuel economy, the latter though not as pressing an issue for 2012.
Indeed, Subaru estimates that the 2012 Impreza will deliver 36 mpg highway, about the same amount delivered by some of its front-wheel-drive competitors including the Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Jetta and Chevolet Cruze.
Global Debut
The 2012 Subaru Impreza makes its global debut at the New York International Auto Show in April and will be built in Japan. Subaru production has been curtailed since a March 11 earthquake and tsunami affected a slice of the country, but the Impreza’s introduction isn’t expected to be delayed.
Details about the all new Impreza are sketchy, but based on press reports and previous concepts and model introductions, the car is expected to be powered by a 2.0-liter four, probably paired with a six-speed automatic. The current Impreza has been criticized for its tight rear passenger room, a problem Subaru may rectify with the new model. Subaru is tight-lipped about the car’s introduction, knowing that several of its competitors are ready to unveil new models of its own.
Impreza Notables
Subaru along with Kia and Hyundai, were the only automakers to see its sales increase all through the recession. Consumers are looking for valve and all three brands deliver. The difference for Subaru has been its quirky line of cars and crossovers, vehicles prized for their stellar build and matching quality.
The Subaru Impreza has been around since 1993 and is now in its third generation. The most recent Impreza was introduced in 2008, thus the turn around is a quick one, something Subaru must do to keep pace with a segment that is dominated by many high quality models including the Ford Focus, Chevrolet Cruze, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla and Hyundai Elantra among others.
Pricing hasn’t been determined for the 2012 Subaru Impreza, but based on the current model, an $18,000 floor is possible. Expect the performance WRX to be updated as well although its introduction has not been announced.
