Looking for a compact car that is affordable but still offers some neat perks? Look no further than the Subaru Impreza. The Impreza offers standard all-wheel drive, is available in both sedan and hatchback versions, and can be outfitted with a manual transmission for those who prefer it. Driver-assist features make safety a priority, and the interior is practical with an infotainment system that can make the drive more exciting.
The 2022 Subaru Impreza has no major changes for the upcoming model year. However, the Limited trim is now only available in the hatchback version of the vehicle. Customers may also choose a new exterior color, Sapphire Blue Pearl.
When it comes to performance, the Impreza is an all-wheel-drive across the spectrum. The engine is a flat four-cylinder rated to make 152 horsepower and offer 145 pound-feet of torque. One may choose between a CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission) or a five-speed manual transmission. Experts love the handling of the Impreza; there is little body roll, and the steering is responsive.
The interior of the Impreza offers easy-to-read gauges, intuitive climate control, and very simple, practical controls. Again, the Impreza is built for practicality, but you'll also enjoy softer plastics in the cabin as well as comfy armrests and tons of legroom. When some manufacturers focus on legroom for the rear seating areas, the Impreza offers a roomy front row.
The cargo room does not suffer due to this design, but it is not one of the large cargo areas in a sedan or hatchback in the same class. The rear seat offers a 60/40 folding option so that you can get more cargo room.
Infotainment is one area where the Impreza shines. Drivers across all trims can access software that allows drivers to pair their smartphones with the vehicle's interface. Apple CarPlay is available for those with an iPhone to utilize voice-activated features; Android Auto is available for those with other brands of cell phones. With this software access, drivers can receive phone calls without ever picking up the phone or taking one's eyes off the road. Drivers can access contacts in the phone to send a voice-activated text message; one can even ask Siri or Alexa for directions! The standard infotainment screen is a 6.5-inch touchscreen; however, the Limited will offer a larger, eight-inch unit.
When it comes to safety, Subaru always adds features to improve your drive. Keep in mind that those drivers who chose the CVT transmission will have access to the driver-assist features. They are not available on the manual transmission Impreza. Available driver-assist features include lane departure and lane-keeping warnings, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning aided by automated emergency braking. Rear cross traffic alert is also an available safety option.
The Subaru Impreza is available in four trims. The base model offers the 6.5-inch touchscreen, access to driver-assist software, lots of legroom, the ability to fold portions of the rear seat, and a practical interior. One can get the manual or the CVT transmission at this level.
The Premium is the second trim level, and many experts state this is one of the best for the price. The Premium offers paddle shifters on the steering wheel, adaptive cruise control, access to Sirius XM radio, access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and heated front seats. The Sport offers all these features with a few extras, and the Limited is available only in a hatchback version.