The sport compact market has evolved over the past few years, with several leaders in the segment getting bigger and more upscale. In fact some of the Honda or Mazda models are quickly bucking that small sport compact label. In a move that looks to buck that trend, Subaru is releasing the all new 2017 Subaru Impreza. Subaru’s popular Impreza model has been upgraded from the outgoing model, and today we’ll be looking at some of the changes to the 2017 model year.
Subaru’s always been a bit spartan as far as styling goes, usually opting for function over form. This theme continues in the 2017 Subaru Impreza, with an aggressive tone over the monotonous base design.
The Impreza has been the cornerstone of Subaru’s success, and it’s receiving a complete facelift for the 2017 model year. The all new 2017 Subaru Impreza is getting a handful of upgrades in safety and performance that look to put the new Impreza on top. First making it’s appearance at the 2016 New York Auto Show, the 2017 Subaru Impreza has been upgraded across the board starting with the powerplant.
Highlights of the 2017 Subaru Impreza
Exterior – Although there are several sweeping upgrades to the all new Impreza, many enthusiasts still find the styling a bit bland. Although we won’t go that far, the changes to the front fascia of the 2017 Subaru Impreza don’t inspire the aggressive styling in the Honda or Mazda models. Still, Subaru takes a step towards an aggressive look that focuses the new Impreza on performance.
Based on the new Subaru platform named Global, the 2017 Subaru Impreza exterior features a new host of upgrades. The 2017 Subaru Impreza on a one-inch longer wheelbase at sports of 1.6 and stretched in overall length and a one and a half inch increase in width. This upgrade prepares the Subaru Global platform for the Legacy and perhaps even the new Forester. It gives the 2017 Subaru Impreza a lot more room inside and more functional space.
LED hawkeye headlights adorn either side of the traditional Subaru hexagon front grille. The new Subaru will improve aerodynamics and overall appearance, with a heavily sculpted body line. The upgrades to the 2017 Subaru Impreza include a bevy of changes to the suspension components. Meant to provide a firmer and more responsive ride, the Global chassis used in the new Impreza is up to 70% stronger than the old frame. These upgrades to the frame and chassis give the 2017 Subaru Impreza a superior platform for performance.
Interior – Not only will the new Impreza look the handle the part, the interior also receives a complete makeover as well. The focus on functionality is the primary goal, as the 2017 Subaru Impreza makes several upgrades to the interior. Whether you choose the sedan or the more traditional hatchback body style, the 2017 Subaru Impreza steps up their game in the cabin.
Upgrades to the infotainment system and the center console lead Subaru to ramp up the tech. Luckily for Subaru fans, the improvements to the chassis and suspension lessen road noise and vibration. Premium models and trims of the 2017 Subaru Impreza will feature a nice supportive set of leather bucket seats. These front seats come standard with a 6-way power-adjustable function for the driver, which also happens to be a Subaru first.
The center display is powered by a six and a half inch touchscreen display in base models, with an optional 8 inch model for the premium models. All of the 2017 Subaru Impreza models come standard with Android auto and Apple carplay. Models equipped with a navigation unit come with graphics powered by Tom Tom. Subaru’s Starlink Safety and Security features return in the premium trims.
Performance – The biggest changes to the 2017 Subaru Impreza are found under the hood. Returning for the 2017 Impreza is the iconic 2.0 liter EJ boxer engine. This base 2.0 liter engine now uses direct fuel injection technology, to improve horsepower and torque across the RPM band. The 2017 Subaru Impreza will come with 152 horsepower, an increase of 4 horsepower from the previous generation.
An updated linear electronic CVT transmission with a 7 ratio manual shift mode for the steering wheel-mounted paddles and improved shift logic is a welcome addition. The 2017 Subaru Impreza uses the patented symmetrical all wheel ABS system with new active torque vectoring. The new torque vectoring technology gives the 2017 Subaru Impreza a new grip on performance and increases safety across all models. With a higher standard of performance and safety, the 2017 Subaru Impreza also includes features like Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Pre-Collision Braking and Lane Departure as well.
Want to learn more about the all new Subaru Impreza? Check out Subaru’s official website or subscribe to My Pro Street to get all the latest in tech tips, car reviews and How To guides.