Subaru has just launched the all-new Impreza Sport Hybrid, which will go on sale in Japan starting July 10th, 2015, with monthly sales projected at around 500 units.
For now, there is no indication that this second hybrid model from Subaru will find its way into other global markets (the company already sells the XV Crosstrek Hybrid). What's more, the press release doesn't specify the availability of both sedan and hatchback body styles.
According to the Japanese manufacturer, the Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid offers improved fuel economy while delivering smooth, linear acceleration. Equipped with a Lineartronic CVT, and designed to make optimum use of the low centre of gravity and superior weight balance that characterize Subaru’s unique symmetrical all-wheel drive system, the car is said to offer excellent handling.
The gas-electric powertrain in the Impreza Sport Hybrid consists of a 2.0L flat-4 engine, an electric motor, high-voltage batteries, and a regenerative braking system that captures energy when decelerating and puts it to good use at high speeds.
In Japan, the new Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid will come standard with EyeSight, which coordinates with the hybrid system to enable the Eco-Cruise Control function to make the maximum use of electric vehicle driving and regenerative braking when Adaptive Cruise Control is operating, thereby reducing fuel consumption. It's also interesting to note that the hybrid system doesn't affect cargo capacity at all since the batteries and high-voltage components are mounted as a single unit beneath the rear cargo floor.
As far as styling is concerned, the Impreza Hybrid features 17” wheels, distinctive side skirts, a rear spoiler, and LED taillights. Body colour options include black, silver, white, ocean blue, quartz blue, and red.
The interior adds blue accents that are exclusive to the hybrid model, plus gloss black panels and metallic pieces. Higher trim levels further stand out thanks to silver-coloured Ultrasuede seats with blue stitching and power adjustments (front seats only).
Let's keep our fingers crossed and hope that the Subaru Impreza Sport Hybrid eventually lands in North America.
