2017 Subaru Impreza Review

The 2017 Subaru Impreza rides on an all-new platform, it is longer, lower, and wider than the previous model. Although the 2017 Impreza is still on the conservative end of the styling spectrum, I truly believe this is a needed evolutionary improvement over the previous model. The new Impreza took a few styling cues from the Legacy, in particular some choices in the interior and in the rear-end of the vehicle.

The sport trim comes with rocker spoilers, 18in alloy wheels, LED daytime running lights, and a unique suspension. The Impreza sport is not to be confused with the WRX, which runs on the last generation platform of the Impreza, and features a more powerful version of the powertrain, all while looking a little nicer as well.

The sport model also includes active torque vectoring for improving traction, AWD as with all models of the Impreza. The Impreza features a 2.0 liter horizontally opposed 4-cyclinder engine that produces 152 horsepower and 145lb feet of torque. EPA estimates include 27mpg in the city, 36mpg on the highway. Although that is not the greatest for a compact car, you have to factor in the AWD. This is the only powertrain you get with the Impreza, however with the WRX you do get a more powerful powertrain. Although Subaru claims that you do get more power with this new release of the Impreza, it still feels underwhelming and underpowered.

Competitors to the Impreza include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Chevy Cruze, and Mazda 3. The Impreza can also be featured in a Hatchback version, which improves the cargo space and versatility of the vehicle.

Interior quality, although somewhat lacking compared to other cars in this class, has significantly improved over the previous models of the Impreza. You get soft touch materials in the armrest, dashboard, and everything feels sturdy. The steering wheel has mounted volume controls, Bluetooth, and controls for the infotainment center. You can also get controls for adaptive cruise control, pre-collision system, and lane departure, and lane sway warning that comes with the eye-sight system.

The seats feel very comfortable, visibility is very good, and a simple yet clunky layout for climate controls. The Infotainment system has an 8in touch screen, very responsive. Additionally you get I-pod integration, apple car play, android audio, Bluetooth connectivity, etc. Overall, the head unit is very responsive, with good graphics and rendering. Since the Impreza rides on an all-new platform longer than the previous version, Subaru was able to create extra cabin space, and it certainly feels more spacious than previous models. I never felt claustrophobic in this car.

Despite the Impreza not having the most power powertrain when compared to other cars in its class, it still is fun to drive with good handling. It rides well, maybe a little on the firm side, certainly not a couch on wheels. The CVT handles well.

With its improved interior technology, responsive handling, and AWD, the 2017 Subaru Impreza remains a stronger competitor in the market of compact sedans/hatchbacks.

What are your thoughts- do you own a Subaru Impreza?
Do you drive one of its competitors?