When we think about a Subaru we assume that it is made for active outdoorsy people, this is not wrong as this is its core audience but over the past several years Subaru has been trying to take its all-wheel-drive message closer to the mainstream. The car charged with this effort is the Subaru Impreza; the automaker changed its small hatchback and saloon last year to align more closely with what small car buyers want.
This line was introduced in 1993 as a replacement for Leone by FHI and though it started just to fill a gap in the market for small cars it became a competing opponent in the race rallies. At first these were offered in either front wheel or all wheel configuration and the first engine was a 1.8L 4 cylinder later followed by a 1.6L engine and then in 1996 these were dropped and replaced with the latest being a 2.0L. The second generation was introduced in 2001 with a larger and safer body. Once this became more popular the option of a special race Impreza was given and in 1997 the models exterior was redesigned and short while later changes were made to the interior including a more advanced forester dashboard.
This vehicle has quite a variety to choose from and has seen many changes over the years with every version. There are 6 available trim levels which are 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 2.5GT, WRX, WRX Premium, WRX STI trim and the Outback Sport. These models are most famous for being turbocharged with the latest 2010 version holding a 2.5L boxer engine which gives an amazing 195kw of power and 343nm torque. These models also come with an active valve control system and vehicle dynamics control.
The latest has 2 types, the hatchback and the more formal saloon. The differences between the two being the window sills, dual tail pipe, rear diffuser and rear window piper. The 2010 models have an ABC, electronic throttle control system, brake assistance, 4 wheel brake discs and data dot security. Not only that but it also has an immobilizer security system. This vehicle is elegant and safe so definitely an option for anyone looking to buy a car.
What were the changes it made for 2012; well Subaru has introduced better fuel economy, more competitive pricing and less polarizing styling. All-wheel drive remains standard on every Impreza. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-liter flat four-cylinder engine makes 148 hp and 145 lb-ft of torque, transmitting it to all four wheels through either a five-speed manual gearbox or, for better gas mileage, the second generation of Subaru’s Lineartronic continuously variable transmission. Subaru Impreza is an attractive fuel-efficient and all-wheel-drive combination.
