Impreza returns to UK market
On May 1, the Subaru Impreza will make its return to the British market after a 24-month sabbatical. The car is actually nothing new – it has been on sale around the world for two years – but thanks to an improved exchange rate and consumer demand, the Impreza is back.
At first, the company will introduce the car back in limited numbers, with just one engine and trim level available, although there will be a choice of transmissions.
There is a new 1.6-litre boxer engine, which provides a lower centre of gravity for better handling and produces 114hp and 150Nm of torque. With a 0-60mph time of 12.3 seconds and a top speed of 114mph, the Impreza isn’t especially fast, but it is quite economical for a car and engine of that size and fuel type, returning 46.3mpg on a combined cycle.
Customers can choose between a normal manual ‘box and a ‘Lineartronic’ automatic, with a dual-plate clutch. The manual comes with a simple, 50/50 split four-wheel drive system, which distributes power evenly between the axles. The Lineartronic, on the other hand, provides and adjustable 60/40 split, biased towards the front. If the electronic system detects slip, it can move the torque to the opposite axle to put the power through the wheels with most grip.
The Impreza’s driving dynamics are provided by wide anti-roll bars and a rigid cross-member to reduce roll and improve stiffness.
The only specification available in the UK will be the RC model, which comes with automatic headlights and wipers, 16in alloys and a reversing camera. Just three colours will be available: Satin White, Ice Silver and Quartz Blue.