2017 Subaru Impreza

2017 Subaru Impreza Highlights

The 2017 Subaru Impreza marks the debut of a fully redesigned model, ushering in the fifth generation of this compact car. Built on an all-new platform, the 2017 Impreza boasts a host of improvements that elevate its standing in the competitive compact car segment.

This latest Impreza features a more spacious interior, achieved by extending the wheelbase and pushing the wheels further apart. The exterior styling has been refreshed, giving the car a more modern and assertive look. Under the hood, the four-cylinder engine receives a power boost, enhancing performance without sacrificing efficiency.

The 2017 model's technology advances with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration across all trims. Subaru has also introduced a new safety feature suite.

Competitors in the compact car segment include the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Mazda Mazda3, and Volkswagen Golf.

Key Details

• Compact four-door sedan or five-door hatchback body style
• Standard all-wheel drive across all trims
• 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine
• Choice of five-speed manual or CVT transmission
• Built at Subaru's plant in Indiana, marking the first U.S.-built Impreza
• The new Subaru Global Platform enhances rigidity and crash safety

Benefits

• Standard all-wheel drive
• Spacious interior for its class, with high-quality materials
• User-friendly infotainment system with standard smartphone integration
• Excellent safety ratings and available advanced safety features
• Improved fuel economy despite increased power
• Choice of sedan or versatile hatchback body styles

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2017 Subaru Impreza Overview

Performance

A revised 2.0-liter four-cylinder Boxer engine powers the 2017 Subaru Impreza. Its horizontally opposed layout, a Subaru hallmark, contributes to a lower center of gravity, enhancing the car's handling characteristics. The engine produces 152 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque, a modest increase of 4 horsepower over the previous generation.

Transmission options include a standard five-speed manual or an available continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT helps optimize fuel efficiency and provides smooth acceleration. For those who prefer more control, the Sport and Limited trims with CVT feature paddle shifters that simulate a seven-speed manual mode.

One of the Impreza's standout features is standard all-wheel drive. This system continuously adjusts power distribution to provide optimal traction in various driving conditions, setting the Impreza apart from many of its front-wheel-drive competitors.

The Sport trim adds some performance enhancements, including:

• Active torque vectoring for improved handling
• Sport-tuned suspension
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Larger front brake rotors

While not as performance-oriented as its WRX sibling, the 2017 Impreza provides a balanced blend of everyday drivability and all-weather capability.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the Impreza a top five-star overall safety rating. In addition, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) named the 2017 Impreza a "Top Safety Pick+" when equipped with available EyeSight driver assist technology and specific headlights. This is the highest safety designation offered by the IIHS.

Standard safety features across all 2017 Subaru Impreza trims include:

• Seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag
• Ring-shaped reinforcement frame
• Whiplash-reducing front seats
• Brake assist and brake override systems
• Rearview camera

Safety technology available on select trims includes:

• EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, featuring:
  • Pre-collision braking
  • Adaptive cruise control
  • Lane departure and sway warning
  • Lane keep assist
• Blind-spot detection with lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert
• Reverse automatic braking
• Steering-responsive headlights
• Automatic high beams

Driving

The 2017 Subaru Impreza offers a driving experience that balances comfort with engagement. The new platform provides increased rigidity, improving handling and a smoother ride. The steering is precise and well-weighted, offering good feedback to the driver.

The standard all-wheel-drive system is a key differentiator, providing excellent traction in various weather conditions. This feature makes the Impreza particularly appealing in regions with harsh winters or for those who frequently drive on unpaved roads.

Acceleration is adequate for daily driving, though not particularly sporty. The CVT operates smoothly, but some drivers may prefer the more engaging experience of the manual transmission, especially in the Sport trim.

Road noise is well-controlled, thanks to improved sound insulation. The suspension does a reasonable job of absorbing road imperfections while maintaining composure through corners. With its tuned suspension and larger wheels, the Sport trim offers a slightly firmer ride with enhanced responsiveness.

Interior

The 2017 Subaru Impreza’s cabin is noticeably more spacious and refined than its predecessor. The extended wheelbase translates to increased legroom, particularly for rear-seat passengers. The sedan and hatchback configurations offer generous headroom, even for taller occupants.

Material quality has significantly improved, with soft-touch surfaces in key areas and a more premium feel overall. The dashboard layout is clean and functional, with controls logically placed and easy to reach.

The front seats are comfortable and supportive. The rear bench seat can accommodate three adults, though two will be more relaxed on longer journeys. The hatchback variant offers excellent versatility, with up to 55.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down.

2017 Subaru Impreza interior features available on select trims include:

• Leather-trimmed upholstery
• Heated front seats
• Six-way power-adjustable driver's seat
• Leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter handle
• Automatic climate control
• 60/40-split fold-down rear seatback
• Proximity keyless entry with push-button start
• Power Moonroof

Technology

The 2017 Subaru Impreza comes well-equipped with modern technology features centered around the Starlink infotainment system. Even the base model offers comprehensive tech features, setting a high standard for the segment.

Key technology features available on select trims include:

• Starlink infotainment system with 6.5-inch or 8-inch touchscreen
• Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration (standard on all trims)
• Bluetooth hands-free phone and audio streaming
• SiriusXM satellite radio
• Harman Kardon premium audio system
• 4.2-inch color multi-function display
• Wi-Fi connectivity

Fuel Economy

The 2017 Subaru Impreza's fuel economy is competitive within the compact car segment, especially considering its standard all-wheel drive. EPA fuel economy ratings vary slightly depending on transmission and body style:

2.0-liter four-cylinder (manual transmission)

• Sedan/AWD (mpg): 24 city / 32 highway / 27 combined
• Hatchback/AWD (mpg): 24 city / 31 highway / 26 combined

2.0-liter four-cylinder (CVT)

• Sedan/AWD (mpg): 28 city / 38 highway / 32 combined
• Hatchback/AWD (mpg): 28 city / 37 highway / 31 combined

2017 Subaru Impreza Reviews

Consumer reviews on Kelley Blue Book gave the 2017 Subaru Impreza an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5. Feedback is particularly strong for reliability, value, and styling.

Reasons to Buy It

• Standard all-wheel drive
• Spacious and well-designed interior
• High safety and consumer review ratings
• Sedan or hatchback body style

Problems

• Engine power may feel inadequate for some drivers
• Base model's five-speed manual transmission (most competitors offer six speeds)
• Fewer engine options compared to some competitors
• Premium fuel is recommended for optimal performance

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CoPilot's Take

The 2017 Subaru Impreza represents a significant step forward for the model, offering an appealing package in the competitive compact car segment. Its standard all-wheel-drive system remains a unique selling point. Furthermore, the redesigned interior and exterior give the Impreza a more premium feel.

However, the Impreza isn't without its compromises. While slightly more potent than before, the engine may still feel underpowered to some drivers, especially when compared to turbocharged options offered by some competitors. The five-speed manual transmission in the base model also feels a bit dated in a segment where six-speed manuals are common.

Despite these minor drawbacks, the 2017 Subaru Impreza offers a well-rounded package that should appeal to many buyers.