This 3,176-pound 2017 Subaru Impreza thoroughbred has more moves than a Dallas Cowboy’s linebacker. This quickness is motivated by a 2.0-liter direct injection four-cylinder Boxer engine, which delivers 152 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,000 rpm.
The Lineartronic CVT and sport-tuned suspension with Stablex dampers carry this power to the pavement. The fuel economy is estimated at 37 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
It’s been a while since I’ve driven a standard, but the crisp five-speed manual transmission made it easy for even an old guy like me.
The manufacturer’s suggested retail price is an impressive $21,995 for the test 2.0i Sport four-door. But look inside and you might believe this to be a luxury sedan. The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gloss black finish, keyless access with push-button start, and high-grade multi-function display are examples of this luxury.
There is an optional package for $2,945 this includes the acclaimed Subaru EyeSight driver assist technology with pre-collision braking, moonroof, and Harman/Kardon audio.
Technology has found a home in the 2017 Subaru Impreza. The Starlink infotainment system includes an 8-inch multi-touch high-resolution display, supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The smartphone integration allows streaming from sources like Aha and Pandora.
It’s further loaded with Bluetooth hands-free phone and text connectivity, audio streaming, AM/FM radio, single-disc CD player, six speakers, voice-activated controls, SiriusXM All Access Radio, and SiriusXM Travel Link.
These devices are really more technology than I need or can understand, but my 16-year-old granddaughter was delighted to explain them to me, while encouraging me to give up my flip phone and move into a more technically advanced era.
Now I may not readily understand about all the technological equipment and the vision of connectivity that Subaru offers, but I do know about comfort and quality of ride. Enlarging the seats just a tad and adding a couple of mid-size open storage areas near the driver’s seat would make this car a perfect ensemble.
The 2017 Subaru Impreza has a very quiet interior, which makes the ride more relaxing. Simulated carbon-fiber center dash panel trim and door trim inserts, along with a sound-insulation windshield, help to guarantee the “Sound of Silence.”
The test model comes standard with an All-Weather Package, which includes two-stage heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, and a windshield-wiper de-icer. These are mighty nice features when the frost freezes on the pumpkin.
Each accessory mentioned has been tested so thoroughly that Subaru assures you it will last throughout the life of the vehicle.
Subaru vehicles are known for their value, comfort, reliability, and a fun-to-drive image, but the company takes the most pride in is safety.
There are a total of seven airbags. The 2017 Subaru Impreza has been selected by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as a Top Safety Pick+ when equipped with the available EyeSight forward collision mitigation technology.
The LED headlights, with available automatic high-beam control, ensure adequate visibility at all times. According to Subaru literature, 96 percent of all Subaru cars built in the last 12 years are still on the road.
Warranty 3-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty 5-year/Unlimited mile Rust Perforation Limited Warranty 3-year/36,000-mile Roadside Assistance
