Subaru unveils its 2024 Impreza

Subaru took advantage of the Los Angeles Auto Show to unveil the new generation of its compact Impreza. The model, which made its debut 30 years ago, is now in its sixth generation. On the menu: a revised design, more safety and technology, as well as a new RS variant.

Let's take a look at the highlights of this Impreza. 

Style and versions

As far as styling goes, it's clear that the new Impreza takes the signature look that has made the brand's products so successful, while refining it. The new Impreza looks good from the front, rear and side. The overall design is sportier. There are four versions on the menu: Convenience, Touring, RS and Sport-tech.

Under the hood, the Convenience and Touring variants inherit the 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine, a unit that offers 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque. With the RS and Sport-tech variants, a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine will be installed between the front wheels. This time, power is increased to 182 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. All versions are equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). With the RS and Sport-tech models, a manual mode simulating eight gears can be activated with steering wheel paddles.

All-wheel drive is still standard, of course, but it's worth noting that it's been revised to act more swiftly, providing better agility and more solid handling in corners. Another interesting fact is that the new Impreza gets the sportier and more responsive rack-and-pinion steering of the WRX version.

As for the structure that holds the car, it's still the same, but it's been improved, notably to offer 10% more rigidity.

On board

Inside, special attention has been paid to soundproofing and how people interact with the vehicle's functions. The interior design includes a prominent 11.6-inch center screen with visible controls, which is highly reassuring. Occupants will also notice gains in space (legroom, headroom, etc.). The Impreza comes standard with the EyeSight safety system, which offers a host of features to help reassure us behind the wheel.

Interestingly, access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will be wireless with this new generation.

The equipment

As for the equipment, it's generous right from the start and there are some important additions throughout the lineup. With all models, you'll enjoy power windows, welcome lighting, keyless access, heated front seats, a 60-40 split folding rear seat, and dual-zone climate control. A fun note about it, it focuses on the seats where occupants are present to concentrate its initial efforts there.

With the Touring variant, we add the heated steering wheel, keyless access, push-button start and fog lights.

Finally, the RS and Sport-tech variants get a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, wireless cell phone charging, a power sunroof, and a 10-way power driver's seat with lumbar support.

We could go on and on, because the Impreza's spec sheet is impressive. Simply in terms of safety features, it's more than complete.

We will of course come back to you with more details on this model, especially on the RS version.