Subaru has launched the new, fourth-generation 2012 Impreza model at the 2011 New York International Auto Show. With bolder, more dynamic design, and new engines, Subaru's compact contender will also offer increased interior space, refinement and handling agility.
New interior features, infotainment technology and higher grade interior materials promise a more rewarding driving and ownership experience for customers of the 2012 Impreza.
For the Irish and British market, a new 1.6 litre Boxer engine will be teamed with a five-speed manual transmission or the second generation Lineartronic CVT (continuously variable transmission ). Every new Impreza is equipped as standard with symmetrical all-wheel drive, Subaru's invaluable performance and safety enhancing system.
Built on a slightly longer wheelbase but with shorter overhangs, the new Impreza provides a roomier interior in the same external footprint as the outgoing model. The new passenger cabin not only yields more room, but crucially a greater feeling of spaciousness and better visibility than before.
Subaru says the new Impreza will benefit from improved ride and handling courtesy of strengthened suspension components in front and rear and new hydraulic engine mounts to damp out vibration. The new model keeps its double-wishbone rear suspension which now features new components to improve ride quality and stability. A stiffer body structure, when combined with the new suspension, has also reduced levels of noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH ).
Subaru will offer two different symmetrical all-wheel drive systems in the new Impreza. In models equipped with the five-speed manual, the continuous AWD system uses a viscous-coupling to distribute power 50/50 front to rear, while any slippage will send more power to the opposite set.
Impreza models equipped with the lineartronic CVT feature the active torque split AWD version that uses a continuously variable transfer clutch to actively control power distribution in response to driving conditions.
Complementing the safety benefits of the AWD system, the new Impreza will also come as standard with Subaru's vehicle dynamics control - a system which combines stability and traction control functions - while all models are equipped with ABS, electronic brake-force distribution, and the brake assist safety system.
Subaru's high performance WRX STI, which was launched last autumn and is now sold and marketed as a stand-alone model, is not affected in any way by the introduction of a new Impreza five-door. The WRX STI will continue unchanged in this part of the world for the foreseeable future.
