Subaru Shows Off The Lighter And More Fuel Efficient Impreza

[William Maley]

Subaru Shows Off The Lighter And More Fuel Efficient Impreza

2012 Subaru Impreza Gallery

• 30-Percent Boost In Fuel Economy Makes 2012 Impreza the Most Fuel Efficient All-Wheel Drive Car in America.
  
• Roomiest Impreza Ever With New Level of Comfort and Refinement
  
• Same exterior dimensions, but lighter and quicker than previous model
  

NEW YORK, April 20, 2011 - Subaru of America, Inc., today introduced the all-new fourth-generation 2012 Impreza® four-door and five-door compact models at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. Debuting bolder, more dynamic designs and an all-new powertrain, the 2012 Impreza models offer a 30-percent improvement in fuel economy over the outgoing versions, along with increased room, greater agility and a higher level of refinement. New amenities, infotainment technology and higher-grade interior materials contribute to a more rewarding driving and ownership experience in the 2012 Impreza, which will arrive in Subaru dealerships this fall.

Powered by an all-new 148-hp 2.0-liter Boxer engine, the 2012 Impreza comes with a choice of a five-speed manual transmission or the second-generation Lineartronic® CVT (continuously variable transmission). The 2012 Impreza will offer the highest fuel economy of any all-wheel drive car in America, with projected EPA ratings of 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway. Every 2012 Impreza is equipped as standard with Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive.

Offered in base, Premium, Sport Premium, Limited and Sport Limited models, the 2012 Impreza conveys a bolder, more confident design that emphasizes its sporty roots and standard Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive performance. In profile, the 2012 Impreza draws focus to its wheels with powerful arches, a theme that debuted on the 2010 Subaru Legacy®.

The combination of a longer wheelbase and redesigned door and roof trim and front seats yields gains in passenger and cargo room for the 2011 Impreza. The wheelbase grows to 104.1 inches compared to 103.2 in the outgoing model. Vehicle length and width remain the same as before for both sedan and five-door models, yet, thanks to redesigned door panels, the 2012 Impreza offers increased hip and shoulder room. Rear seat passengers gain nearly two inches of legroom. Sedan trunk room and five-door cargo room are both increased, and the five-door now provides a completely flat load floor with the standard 60/40 split rear seatbacks folded.

The windshield is more raked than in the previous Impreza, with the bottom of the A-pillar moved 7.9 inches forward, allowing for a front door opening nearly five inches longer for easier entry/exit. Higher hip points and a lower, flatter instrument panel, along with larger side mirrors, contribute to better visibility from within the cabin.

Richer looking appointments and details abound, including soft-touch materials for the dashboard, door trim and center console armrest. Larger door pockets can hold plastic drink bottles and large maps. Numerous compartments located in and around the center console hold all manner of today’s personal items, such as phones, USB drives and MP3 players.

The new 2.0-liter Boxer engine feels even more responsive than the 2.5-liter engine it replaces, thanks to lighter vehicle weight – and especially when equipped with the new CVT, a quieter and more compact version of the CVT that debuted in the 2010 Legacy and Outback® models. Unlike a conventional automatic transmission, which uses fixed gear ratios, a CVT provides infinite variability between the highest and lowest available ratios with no discernable steps or shifts. The CVT continuously and smoothly adapts to performance demand, helping to keep the engine in its most efficient operating range. Impreza Premium, Sport and Limited models with the CVT also feature a 6-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters, which allow the driver to control the transmission via six pre-set ratios.

Other technologies helping boost fuel efficiency in the 2011 Subaru Impreza include the new electric power steering system, which by itself contributes a 2-percent efficiency increase, and lower rolling resistance tires.

Strengthened suspension components in front and rear -- some inherited from the Legacy -- enhance agility, while new liquid (hydraulic) engine mounts help to damp out vibration. The double-wishbone rear suspension features new, strengthened components and pillow ball bushings for improved ride, straight-line stability, handling and vehicle response.

Building on Subaru’s renown for safety (all 2011 Subaru model lines are IIHS “Top Safety Picks”), the 2012 Impreza was designed to excel under the new, more stringent NHTSA testing regimen. The new body structure makes greater use of high-tensile strength steel and features special stiffening elements at key locations. All 2012 Impreza models add a new driver’s knee airbag to the roster of safety features. The passenger-seat front airbag, features a shell-type design with a center groove, thus exposing the passenger to less impact force upon deployment.

All Impreza models for 2012 are equipped as standard with Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC), which combines stability and traction control functions. Likewise, all 2012 Impreza models are equipped with a standard 4-wheel disc Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and the Brake Assist safety system.

Standard comfort and available amenities are increased across the Impreza line for 2012. The base model features a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, power windows, door locks and side mirrors, a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, outside temperature gauge, a multi-function display with fuel economy information, remote keyless entry system, security system with engine immobilizer, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, variable intermittent windshield wipers and a low windshield washer fluid warning light. Even carpeted floormats, often an option in many cars, are standard equipment in all 2012 Impreza models.

Impreza Premium models add 16-inch alloy wheels, steering wheel audio and Bluetooth® control switches, a rear stabilizer bar for crisper handling, adjustable console armrest, body-color exterior mirrors and chrome interior door handles. The standard audio system in the Premium models features Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and audio streaming, Radio Data Broadcast System (RDBS), iPod® control capability, USB port, 3.5mm aux. input jack and six speakers. An optional All-Weather Package adds heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer.

A power moonroof and a navigation system are available for the Premium models. The new navigation system includes a 6.1-inch touch screen LCD display, voice control, iTunes® tagging, SMS text messaging capability, XM® Satellite Radio and XM NavTraffic (both XM services require subscriptions). Updated map data can be downloaded to a personal computer and then transferred into the system via secure digital (SD) card.

The Impreza Sport Premium is a five-door model that combines standard 17-inch alloy wheels and the All-Weather Package with fog lights, roof rails, unique seat fabric and rocker panel spoilers.

Topping the 2012 Impreza range, the Limited and Sport Limited (five-door only) models deliver the highest level of comfort and convenience ever offered in an Impreza. Leather seating, the All-Weather Package and Alloy Wheel Package are standard. A further audio upgrade (above the Premium) features a 4.3-inch display screen and standard HD Radio. The navigation system and power moonroof are options.

[the_yellow_dart]

Look, its the new Camry and Venza... wait a minute...

[Intrepidation]

Looks like the Rondo.

[daves87rs]

I like the hatch..sedan looks a bit bland.

[Chris_Doane]

Looks like the Rondo.

LoL, yup. I posted this on my FB yesterday afternoon:

[Robert Hall]

Sedan greenhouse looks a lot like the Civic. No mention of the WRX or WRX sti...TBA later?

[William Maley]

Sedan greenhouse looks a lot like the Civic. No mention of the WRX or WRX sti...TBA later?

Yep, Subaru is being quiet on the WRX for now..

[Intrepidation]

Sedan greenhouse looks a lot like the Civic. No mention of the WRX or WRX sti...TBA later?

You're right. Subarau apparently wasn't going for originality or style points with this new Impreza.

[ocnblu]

Reminds me of a Legacy from a few years ago in the front. Thankful the ugly clear lens taillights did not survive.

Still quirky, very Subaru-y. Perfect. I actually like it, now that we know the earlier spy shots were distorted by the telephoto lens. The jacked-up green hatch would be cool as a new Outback Sport.

I'd drive one.

[balthazar]

For subaru fans, here's hoping the interior quality is greatly improved.

[PurdueGuy]

Classy, but boring.

[Blake Noble]

Better than the outgoing model, but then again, what isn't?

[regfootball]

not as nice as it should have been. big time blown opportunity.

[Cory Wolfe]

It's horrible. That's all I have to say.

[ZL-1]

That concept they showed a few months ago had me hoping for good looks to go with the excellent Subaru engineering, but unfortunately it did not materialize...

[Chris_Doane]

Well...this does not look good.

Subaru really needs help. They should be looking to hire a total outsider to come in as the new head of design. The entire lineup needs fresh eyes.

[balthazar]

They have no theme/language- never had. Each generation starts something different, and each is either generic or plain weird.

[ocnblu]

These boys in here are too young to remember the BRAT, the GL hatchback, the XT, even the SVX. Subaru has always been an odd looking car. They went mainstream for a couple of years, but now they're back to what they were, and that's OK, it's in their DNA.

I remember I wanted an XT Turbo in the worst way when they first came out. But it was not to be.

[regfootball]

Manual is only a 5 speed. Boooooooooo. Interior was mailed in.

[Robert Hall]

These boys in here are too young to remember the BRAT, the GL hatchback, the XT, even the SVX. Subaru has always been an odd looking car. They went mainstream for a couple of years, but now they're back to what they were, and that's OK, it's in their DNA.

These are still very mainstream and ordinary looking, IMO. And they lack the frameless door glass that was a Subaru signature detail for so long..

[Intrepidation]

These boys in here are too young to remember the BRAT, the GL hatchback, the XT, even the SVX. Subaru has always been an odd looking car. They went mainstream for a couple of years, but now they're back to what they were, and that's OK, it's in their DNA.

These are still very mainstream and ordinary looking, IMO. And they lack the frameless door glass that was a Subaru signature detail for so long..

Mainstream and originality yet not very good looking. You know your product is hopelessly bland when its compared to the Rondo.

[siegen]

From certain angles it looks ok. Other angles, especially ones that show off the way the head lights protrude out quite a distance, it looks really bad. The tail lights on both sedan and 5-door are not liked by me one bit.

I briefly put the new Impreza on my list, but seeing as it won't be out soon enough and I'm not fond of its appearance, I think I will scratch it off.

[ocnblu]

Much more interesting than the current mainstream car. With its new lightness and fuel efficiency, plus an easy prediction as a top safety pick, this will sell. In the past, the AWD was a great feature, until one noted the MPG figures... too much of a trade-off. Now the fuel mileage bogey has been dealt with.

[David]

Very ugly

[Robert Hall]

Looking at the photos on Autoblog today, realized the rear 3/4 view (esp. the C-pillar and quarter window) of the hatchback reminds me of the Caliber, without the black plastic trim the Caliber has...

[FAPTurbo]

All right! Shades of the Rondo and the Caliber, all wrapped up in a bland package! You're right on your way to mediocrity!

[Intrepidation]

Report: Subaru predicts 50% sales hike for 2012 Impreza

[regfootball]

just because its new, it won't surprise me if it gains 50% sales but really the sportage and to me at least the outlander sport look so much nicer.......

[Potluck]

It looks like they found some place to use the left over Pontiac Vibe shells.

[ocnblu]

If you guys have a chance to see Motor Trend's photographs of this car, take it. It comes across very well in their layout.

[Drew Dowdell]

Trick photography, I assure you.

[Cory Wolfe]

If you guys have a chance to see Motor Trend's photographs of this car, take it. It comes across very well in their layout.

Photography is a distorted view of reality. Seeing it in the flesh is your only chance of a true look... and its not a very cunning design.

[ocnblu]

I think I'm going to like it, based on the photos, especially after seeing the Motor Trend article.

[PurdueGuy]

It looks "not ugly" here, but still fairly boring.

[ocnblu]

I saw photo # 26 and was convinced. Full-on quirky Subaru, but cool. Just the way it should be.

[Turbojett]

I like the sedan, but not the hatch. The rear third of it just looks awkward.

I did like the concept sedan better though. Hopefully, the WRX/STi will regain some of that machismo the concept had.

[Robert Hall]

It's still hard to accept Subarus without frameless door glass..they just seem so common and ordinary now.

[balthazar]

^ miniscule detail only apparent when the doors are open. This is about as pertinent as the trunk hinge design.

[Turbojett]

I'd say trunk hinge design is a little more important if you use your trunk pretty often. Goosenecks suck soooo bad.

by yeah, the only way I can see window frames mattering that much is if you regularly slam your finger in the door.

Edited June 9, 2011 by Turbojett

[ocnblu]

It's kinda cool though, when the door is open and the window's down. Reminds us old timers of hardtops.

[Robert Hall]

It's kinda cool though, when the door is open and the window's down. Reminds us old timers of hardtops.

it was just one of those little details like horizontally-opposed engines and AWD that made Subaru distinctive amidst the sea of Japanese generica. They aren't as unique anymore..

[Cory Wolfe]

I love my frameless doors.

[Drew Dowdell]

It's the Subaru Toyotation lately. I agree that it was these little things that made a Subaru a Subaru. If/When they drop the H engines... they're done.

[ocnblu]

Current Impreza has framed glass, just checked. Which current Subaru has frameless? It was cool but I think it's been gone a while. I imagine it's harder to keep the door glass sealed properly with a frameless design, because adjustments might be necessary from time to time. Still a nifty feature though.

[Turbojett]

the GD/GG series was the last generation with frameless glass, I think...

[Intrepidation]

I wonder if anyone at Subaru sees the irony in the Mediocrity commercials they were running last year?

[cire]

I don't find either version ugly or hideous, but both versions are much blander than I had expected. For some reason, the front end doesn't seem to gel well with the rest of the body on either version. I'm thinking this may be a better looking car in the metal than it is in pictures. We'll have to see about that one...

[regfootball]

this car will probably be popular in a huge way now that mpg is vastly improved.......

[ocnblu]

I wish they were on the lots now. I think they're going to be really spiffy.

[Drew Dowdell]

I wonder if anyone at Subaru sees the irony in the Mediocrity commercials they were running last year?

I did, as they cited a 4-speed Auto as a primary feature on the Mediocrity yet at the time, in 50% of their cars the automatics were.... 4-speed