The Subaru Impreza is a five-passenger compact car with a 30+ year history since it launched in 1992. 2024 introduces an all-new 6th generation with new looks, technology, and performance. The Impreza lineup has evolved over its history from a mix of sedan or hatchback offerings to a more streamlined approach for 2024. It is now available in three trims known as the base, sport, and RS (new trim offering). It is now exclusively offered as a 5-door hatchback with all-wheel drive and a continuously variable automatic transmission. The standard engine is a 2.0L four cylinder that generates 152 horsepower and 145-pound feet of torque. Stepping up to the new RS will include a 2.5L four cylinder that gets 182 horsepower and 178-pound feet of torque. Competition includes vehicles like the Honda Civic, Hyundai Elantra, Kia Forte, Nissan Sentra, Mazda 3 or Toyota Corolla. Prices start at $22,995 for the base model, $24,995 for the Sport, and $27,885 for the RS. I spent a week in a Pure Red Impreza RS that checked in at $28,975 and here's what stood out...
ExteriorThe styling has been updated with a refreshed and sportier new look that is still very Subaru. Perhaps the most notable change to the exterior is the shift to a hatchback only model. The former 4-door sedan is no longer available. A new front fascia with an updated headlight design, new grille, and fog light assembly gives the Impreza a sportier look. The side profile remains like past generation Impreza hatchbacks while around back it gets more significant changes. New taillights follow the shape in other Subaru models with a cut in the middle of the lights. They wrap around to the fenders giving the car a visually wider look. A new bumper also accentuates the sporty style and alludes to a more lifted rear end.
The new RS trim offers unique exterior trim elements including RS badging on the front doors and rear hatch; 18-inch alloy wheels in dark gray finish; black finish on the front grille, side spoilers, side mirrors, upgraded LED headlights, and LED fog lights. While new for 2024, the RS trim has been on the Impreza in the past and was used to signify the sportiest Impreza models back in 1998 prior to the introduction of WRX. It's nice to see this trim return as loyal Subaru owners and enthusiasts ought to appreciate its heritage.
Base models are one of a handful of cars that still come with hubcaps, but it can be upgraded to 16" aluminum alloys for only $350. Sport models come standard with new two-tone silver/gray 18" alloys that play well into its new sporty appearance.
PerformanceWhile there are two primary powertrains, I spent time in the more powerful 2.5L 4-cylinder boxer engine that comes in the RS. This model is capable of a 0-60MPH time of around 8.1 seconds which is average but won't throw you back in your seat like the GR Corolla will do. It handles well in all road conditions thanks to the standard all-wheel drive. The RS feels confident and well planted to the road but is not overly engaging. AWD is unique in this class and is something that sets the Impreza apart from competition with a big advantage in areas the deal with inclement weather or unpaved roads. It's nimble around corners and easy to maneuver in parking lots. Driving dynamics are well-balanced with a bit of pep. The steering is well-balanced, and the ride quality is impressive. The Subaru Global Platform for the 2024 Impreza has been enhanced with 10% higher torsional rigidity. A full inner frame construction and additional structural adhesive contribute to better body rigidity and lighter weight. These updates deliver improved dynamic performance, smoother rides, and quieter cabin. The Impreza offers a smooth, comfortable ride as well. On longer commutes it is well-composed and quiet.
The 2024 Impreza also receives a version of the WRX sport car's dual-pinion electronic power steering rack, offering more direct and natural steering feel and greater responsiveness. The Sport and RS trim levels are equipped with the SI-Drive performance management system, 18-inch alloy wheels and a sport-tuned suspension to maximize performance and handling. It makes for a great commuter car in the city but may leave enthusiast types of drivers wanting more. There is an 8-speed manual mode with steering wheel paddle shifters for a little extra fun if you want.
Fuel EconomyWhen it arrived with a full 16.6-gallon fuel tank, it offered a driving range of almost 500 miles. This is a nice jump from the 2023 model's 13.2-gallon tank with a range closer to 410. Base models get an estimated 27 MPG in the city and 34 MPG on the highway. RS models are slightly less at 26 MPG city and 33 MPG highway. Combined it gets around 29/30 MPG. Regular grade gasoline is recommended. After a week of primarily suburban driving, I average 28 MPG.
InteriorHopping inside the new Impreza offers a lot of nice changes. The new interior has a better focus on functionality. The most obvious change is the newly available 11.6" vertical touch screen placed at the center of the dash. Base models will have a similar look but utilizing two smaller screens with a selection of menu buttons in between them.
It's a well-built cabin with quality materials that are better than expected with this car's price point. There's a lot of soft-touch materials that blend well into the design. Drivers will face a traditional analog gauge cluster with an information screen in the middle. It also uses a traditional gear selector in the center console. The steering wheel is also loaded with large control buttons. I like how functional and simple the interior of the Impreza is. Placement of the wireless phone charger is easy to access in front of the gear selector, water bottle holders are appropriately sized in the center console and in the doors, and everything is well within reach. It's a practical interior with enough style to not be boring.
TechnologyThe standard infotainment system in the Impreza features two 7-inch touch screens, a four-speaker stereo, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth and one front USB port. Stepping up to a model like the RS I drove, it comes with the aforementioned 11.6" vertical touchscreen (standard on Sport & RS), wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto, satellite radio, dual front USB ports, voice recognition, an 8-speaker Harmon Kardon stereo and more. The Subaru infotainment system is intuitive with a logical layout for the touch screen and physical knobs for functions such as volume and tuning. Dual-zone heating/cooling control is now standard across the model line.
SeatingWith seating for five, the Impreza offers an impressive amount of space for a compact car. Both rows offer ample head and leg room. My three kids fit comfortably in the back, although it would be tight for three average height adults. It comes standard with cloth upholstery and manually adjustable seats. Leather, heated front seats, 6-way power-adjustable driver's seat and a leather wrapped steering wheel are all optional and/or available on the higher trims. I found the front seats to be extra spacious and comfortable with good visibility. Even my wife and daughter who are 5'2" felt visibility was impressive with good seating positions that feel higher than you actually are in the car.
The cabin of the RS is further distinguished by gunmetal and simulated carbon fiber interior trim accents as well as sport front seats in black cloth with red cloth bolsters, and carpeted floormats feature the RS logo. The RS also includes upgraded leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, aluminum alloy pedals, heated front seats, and rear USB charge ports.
CargoAmong the compact car class, the Impreza offers a great amount of cargo space. There is 20.8 cubic feet of room behind the rear seats and a maximum of 55.3 cubic feet with the seats folded down... thank you hatchback. It comes with a manual liftgate and some underfloor storage.
SafetyThe 2024 Impreza comes equipped with a nice list of standard safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, automatic high beams, rearview camera, and forward automatic emergency braking. Standard on all 2024 models is the latest version of the award-winning EyeSight Driver Assist Technology. The enhanced system operates smoother, faster, and under a greater range of conditions. EyeSight can now identify bicycles and pedestrians at intersections sooner and, when necessary, alerts the driver and applies brakes to avoid collisions. Also standard is Rear Seat Reminder to help prevent child and/or pet entrapment by alerting the driver to check the rear seat before exiting the vehicle.
Automatic Emergency Steering is included on models equipped with Blind-Spot Detection with Lane Keep Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert. The safety feature works with EyeSight and Blind-Spot Detection to assist with steering control to help avoid a collision at speeds less than 50 mph. Throughout its 30-year history, Impreza has received safety awards from trusted organizations including the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The outgoing five-door Subaru Impreza1 was named a 2022 IIHS Top Safety Pick (with optional EyeSight and specific headlights). Subaru anticipates the all-new 2024 Impreza will continue to deliver exemplary safety performance.
Final StatementAs new car prices have climbed in recent years, there aren't many options like the Impreza with a full price range that remains under $30,000. This is a practical car with a sporty style, all-wheel drive, and modern technology. I was impressed with its overall package and would strongly consider it if I were in the market for a vehicle that would be used by my kids that are just learning to drive. It has an impressive history of being safe and reliable, but also continues to be unique among strong competition.
Pros: Historic reliability, standard AWD, spacious interior, updated infotainment, affordability
Cons: Average power, tough competition
Test Vehicle: 2024 Subaru Impreza RS
Exterior Color: Pure Red
Interior Color: Black/Red Cloth
Notable Options: None
Price as tested: $28,975 (with destination & delivery)