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New York 2011: All-new 2012 Subaru Impreza is roomier, thriftier

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Khatir Soltani
After teasing consumers and the media with a picture of the redesigned 2012 Impreza 4-door, Subaru hosted its official world debut yesterday at the New York International Auto Show.

Featuring the brand's signature all-wheel drive system, both the sedan and the 5-door hatchback burn 30 percent less fuel and offer more interior room than the previous generation.

Photo: Subaru

Regardless of body styles, the new Impreza is powered by an all-new, 148-hp, 2.0-litre Boxer engine and comes with a choice of a 5-speed manual transmission or the second-generation Lineartronic CVT.

Fuel consumption is estimated at 7.5 L/100 km in the city and 5.5 L/100 km on the highway, in part thanks to a new electric power steering and lower rolling resistance tires.

Meanwhile, a strengthened suspension improves the ride, straight-line stability, handling and vehicle response, according to Subaru.

Standard features include ABS brakes with Brake Assist, power windows and door locks, keyless entry, and Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC).

In terms of size, the wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches (+0.9) while overall length and width remain the same as before for both sedan and five-door models. It should be noted that the windshield is more raked than in the previous Impreza, with the bottom of the A-pillar moved 7.9 inches forward.

As a direct result, the front door opening is nearly five inches longer for easier entry/exit. Once inside, passengers will benefit from extra room. Meanwhile, higher hip points and a lower, flatter instrument panel, along with larger side mirrors, contribute to better visibility from within the cabin.

A new navigation system with a 6.1-inch touch screen, leather seats, sunroof and larger alloy wheels are available either as standalone options or as part of a package.

The 2012 Subaru Impreza will arrive in dealerships this fall.

Photo: Subaru


Khatir Soltani
Khatir Soltani
Automotive expert
  • Over 6 years experience as a car reviewer
  • Over 50 test drives in the last year
  • Involved in discussions with virtually every auto manufacturer in Canada