The Subaru Impreza - and WRX derivatives - need no introduction to the readers of
The Car Enthusiast. They've always been cars that speak for themselves whether on the rally circuit with Solberg at the helm, or on the twisty B-roads in your backyard. Now Subaru is hitting us with the all-new next-generation of the Impreza, unveiled at the
New York Auto Show.
First the big news: the new saloon and more potent WRX variation will be sold exclusively in the North American market and will not be making it across to European shores. A pity really, as the outgoing WRX saloon seemed to have been well-liked. But increasingly stringent emissions regulations imposed by the EC now mean that prospective buyers of performance-tuned Imprezas in Europe will have to make do with an STi version, in hatchback form only.
It's not all bad. While the Impreza retains the 2.5-litre four-cylinder powerplant (producing 170bhp and 170lb.ft of torque), the range-topping STi is expected to feature a revised version of the turbocharged 2-litre flat-four offering 300bhp and 318lb.ft of twist. The upgraded mechanicals will focus on providing more linear power delivery and providing peak torque lower in the rev range.
The WRX continues to sport the characteristic bonnet scoop and features a rear underbody diffuser and single chromed exhaust outlet in hatchback form, while the saloon is fitted with a dual exhaust and a rear boot spoiler. Powered by a 2.5-litre flat-four delivering 224bhp and 226lb.ft of torque, the engine weighs 23kg less than its predecessor.
The new Subaru Impreza rides on a wheelbase that has been stretched 94mm and the five-door variant (Subaru hesitates to call it a hatchback in North America) is 165mm shorter than its saloon counterpart, which has grown 144mm longer than its predecessor.
Extensive revisions to improve structural stiffness and comfort have been made to the architecture. Strategically placed high tension steel additions to the chassis allow the engine to be mounted lower in the engine bay, shifting the centre of gravity downward for improved handling. Combined with a new multi-link suspension set up, the new version should see improvements in both stability and handling.
Comprehensive design changes for the revised Impreza include a new front-end, with a contemporary grille replacing the 'airplane wings' motif that adorned the previous car. The tail lamps are departures from the previous generation too, incorporating LED lights in clear housings for the hatchback variation. A taut shoulder line runs the length of the Impreza and breaks up the monotonous slab-like body panels; for the first time, the doors gain a frame around the windows to decrease noise levels and improve body rigidity, but in the process losing some of the brand's character.
Inside, Impreza models now feature brushed aluminium inserts and a cockpit that gives the impression of having actually been designed. Shoulder room has grown 51mm over the previous iteration despite retaining the same exterior width. An optional navigation system is offered for the first time and is featured prominently at the top of the centre console. Ingress and egress is facilitated through larger door openings, while comfort and spaciousness in the rear seats has also increased. Overall, it appears to be a step up in terms of interior quality - the one area in which this was needed.
The newest iteration of the Impreza is set to arrive on dealer forecourts in early 2008, and should carry a list price of roughly £20,000, though the full line-up has yet to be announced for Europe. We'd be surprised if keen drivers are not well catered for, although the prospect of a new hot hatch with Impreza STi pace and four-wheel drive should ease the mourning of the four-door version... Watch this space for more news.
Eric Gallina - 8 Apr 2007
