Subaru’s all-new Impreza made its global right-hand-drive debut at the Australian International Motor Show.
With new looks, a new 2.0-litre version of the horizontally-opposed Boxer engine and a new continuously variable automatic transmission, Subaru has brought significant improvements to the 2012 Impreza.
But perhaps the most significant upgrade is interior space – an area of criticism for the current Subaru Impreza. While the overall size remains unchanged from the existing Subaru Impreza, the all-new model runs a longer wheelbase (2644mm) which, together with a more raked windscreen affording larger doors, provides substantially more room inside – rear seat leg room alone grows by 50.8mm.
Both sedan and hatchback models also gain extra boot space with the boot support arms in the sedan cleverly housed inside the trim – so they don’t press on stored items when loaded to the max.
On the outside the all-new Subaru Impreza is distinguished by a more powerful/sporty look highlighted by a more steeply raked windscreen, thinner A-pillars, a bolder front end with ‘hawke-eye’ headlights, sharply sculptured character lines and the powerful wheel arches which were seen on the concept vehicle. There are also new alloy wheels, a new rear-end and larger glasshouse.
Inside, the new dashboard is flatter, seats are new and trim materials are much improved in their quality/feel (also addressing a criticism of the current Impreza) and some models have extra luxury like folding arms rests and a multi-function display.
Power comes from Subaru’s all-new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder horizontally-opposed Boxer engine driving all four wheels via either a six-speed manual or CVT automatic with a six-speed manual mode. The CVT is a smaller, lighter development of the CVT fitted to Subaru Liberty and Outback.
While engine output is unchanged from the existing Subaru Impreza (110kW/196Nm), the new 2.0-litre is the latest in Subaru’s new engine family (first seen in the 2.5-litre unit which powers the Forester). It’s a dual-overhead cam design with dual active valve control (inlet and exhaust).
Engine development focused on improved fuel consumption – also aided by a new electric power system and reduced disc brake drag thanks to a spring type pad return.
Subaru Impreza runs two different all-wheel-drive systems. Imprezas fitted with the six-speed manual transmission use a viscous coupling centre differential and in normal conditions distribute drive 50/50 front/rear while CVT versions use an Active Torque Split system with an electronically managed transfer clutch.
Underneath is a new suspension set-up and hydraulic engine mounts to enhance refinement.
Subaru will announce detailed Australian specifications and prices for the 2012 Impreza lineup closer to on-sale date.
