2024 Subaru Impreza: A Mobile Energy Boost

author: FutureCar Staff    

UPDATE: The Impreza RS has undergone instrumented testing, and the results are now available. The sixth-generation Impreza has received some updates, including larger screens, a more powerful engine option, and a wider range of standard features. However, Subaru has made some changes, such as discontinuing the four-door sedan and manual transmission options, in response to customer preferences for hatchbacks with CVTs.

The design of the new Impreza bears a resemblance to the Mazda 3, but Subaru has always prioritized functionality over style. The dimensions of the car remain the same as the previous generation, but it is slightly taller and heavier. One notable change is the addition of a plastic step integrated into the rear door sills, making it easier to load gear onto the roof. The rear doors are also designed to accommodate the driver's hips while tying down cargo on the roof.

The updated body structure of the Impreza is 10 percent stiffer torsionally, resulting in improved handling and reduced noise. The car offers a comfortable ride, even on rough pavement. The steering effort has been lightened with a new dual-pinion electric power steering rack, and an electronic brake booster has been introduced for a lighter pedal feel. Brake-based torque vectoring, previously only available on higher-end models, is now standard across the three-trim lineup.

The Impreza lineup includes the base model, the Sport model, and the RS model, which is the top performance variant. The RS model features a more powerful 2.5-liter flat-four engine and an updated CVT, resulting in improved acceleration. However, the performance improvement is not as transformative as it may seem, and the car still falls behind in terms of speed compared to other vehicles. Unfortunately, the RS model no longer offers a manual transmission option.

The Impreza RS boasts a delightful chassis that handles well and provides a smooth ride. It offers good grip on the skidpad, and despite a marginal decrease in fuel economy, it has a larger fuel tank for longer trips. The RS model comes with dark gray 18-inch wheels, a black front grille, side skirts, heated mirrors, and adaptive LED headlights. Inside the cabin, there is a larger touchscreen display and the option for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Subaru's EyeSight driver-assist suite has also been improved with a wider field of view.

In conclusion, while the Impreza may not be the most exciting car to drive, it offers great value for its affordable price. Its practicality and all-wheel drive make it a reliable tool for getting to various destinations. The new updates, including a more powerful engine and improved features, enhance the overall experience of driving the Impreza.

Specifications for the 2024 Subaru Impreza RS:

• Vehicle Type: front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door hatchback
• Price: Base/As Tested - $28,975/$31,045
• Engine: DOHC 16-valve flat-4, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
• Displacement: 152 in3, 2498 cm3
• Power: 182 hp @ 5800 rpm
• Torque: 178 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm
• Transmission: continuously variable automatic
• Suspension: struts/multilink
• Brakes: 12.4-in vented disc/11.2-in vented disc
• Tires: Yokohama Avid S34P P225/40R-18 88V M+S
• Dimensions: Wheelbase - 105.1 in, Length - 176.2 in, Width - 70.1 in, Height - 58.3 in
• Passenger Volume, F/R: 55/44 ft3
• Cargo Volume, behind F/R: 55/20 ft3
• Curb Weight: 3286 lb
• Test Results: 60 mph - 7.8 sec, 1/4-Mile - 16.0 sec @ 89 mph, 100 mph - 20.8 sec
• Fuel Economy: Observed - 25 mpg, 75-mph Highway Driving - 37 mpg, 75-mph Highway Range - 610 mi
• EPA Fuel Economy: Combined/City/Highway - 29/26/33 mpg

FutureCar Staff