It’s hard to argue that the Impreza is Subaru’s most famous and most popular model. It may not be its biggest seller, but the Impreza’s reputation as a rally racer and a beloved tuning machine make it a nameplate known around the world.
The 2017 Subaru Impreza made its debut early at the NYIAS 2016 with a special auto show eve event featuring a live performance by English Beat. (No, I don’t get the connection between a British Ska act and a Japanese automaker either, but it’s a fun band from back in the day that pulled off a fun show.) The new design marks a departure in styling, with an improvement in technology and performance.
The new Impreza will arrive in sedan and 5-door body styles with a New Sport Version sitting atop the trim tree with 18-inch Wheels, Sport Suspension and Active Torque Vectoring. All versions of the car work with a 2.0 liter Boxer Engine with direct fuel injection.
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Since this is intended to be a sporty little Japanese car that some juvenile men will no doubt drive to the edge, Subaru promises to pack in improved safety, comfort and driver aiding technologies. The Subaru EyeSight infotainment system will come standard in all versions.
Most of the news buzzing around the Impreza’s debut at NYIAS 2016 deals with the car’s styling. Subaru seems to be opting for more conservative, though modern cues from its modest, straightforward grille to the straight lines running to the car’s modest haunches. While it’s not a bad looking car by any means, it doesn’t have the look or feel of an aggressive Impreza.
That’s a big of a head scratcher as the Impreza’s restyling seems to fly in the face of how cars — especially Japanese makes — are being designed these days. Mazda started the trend with their Kodo look, and that sculpted language bled over to Toyota and Honda.
The very straightforward styling for the Impreza takes a step away from that. Time will tell if loyal Subaru buyers stick with their favorite make with its new look.
